Star Pubs & Bars and Punch Taverns shine at BBPA annual awards dinner
PUB companies were celebrating at this year’s British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) Awards, with Star Pubs & Bars and Punch Taverns taking two of the three major prizes on the night.
Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars was named Pub Champion 2014 while Punch Taverns took the award for Beer Champion.
Star Pubs & Bars was recognised by awards judges for its work to “secure pubs for future generations” through “effective investment” in its pubs, including both physical improvements to the estate and engagement with the social responsibility agenda.
Punch Taverns, meanwhile, was commended by judges for “true dedication to bringing a huge range of Great British beers” to its estate of over 4000 pubs across the UK.
Judges highlighted Punch’s national cask ale campaign and credited the firm with going “above and beyond” in providing marketing and training support to tenants.
The third award on the night, the Heart of the Community award, was picked up by Cornish brewer St Austell Brewery in recognition of the firm’s charity fundraising work. A special Chairman’s Award was also presented to former community pubs minister Brandon Lewis MP, who judges described as “instrumental in championing the cause of lower beer duty”.
Chris Jowsey, trading director at Star Pubs & Bars, said the firm was “delighted” to have picked up the Pub Champion 2014 award.
“We are passionate about the future of the great British pub and committed to ensuring great British pubs continue to play a valuable role in society,” said Jowsey. “We invest in our pubs and in developing the skills of the lessees who run them to create pubs people love.
“We’re constantly looking at ways to add value to lessees and make our partnership stronger.”
BBPA chief executive Brigid Simmonds said: “This year we have had some inspiring entries, and I want to thank them all for the exceptional work they have done throughout the year.”
The awards formed part of the BBPA’s annual dinner, which was held at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge in London.
