5 Reasons a Turnover Tenancy Could Be Your Perfect Way to Run a Pub

Running your own pub is one of the most exciting and rewarding ventures you can take on. But for many would-be publicans, the thought of high rents, large deposits, and carrying all the risk can feel daunting. That’s where a Turnover Tenancy Agreement (TTA) comes in.

A TTA is a flexible and supportive way to run a pub business, giving you the freedom to build your venue while knowing that your costs move in line with your trade. Instead of paying a fixed rent, you’ll pay a percentage of your turnover, with a cap in place to protect your profits.

Here are five reasons why a turnover tenancy could be the perfect way to start, or continue, your journey in the pub trade.

1. Lower Financial Risk

One of the biggest worries for anyone looking to run a pub is the cost. Traditional pub tenancies often require you to pay a fixed rent, which means the bills keep coming in even if trade dips. With a turnover tenancy, your rent is tied to your weekly sales.

That means when things are quieter, your rent is lower. And if trade is strong, you’ll always know where you stand thanks to the rent cap. This flexibility makes it easier to manage your business through seasonal changes or unexpected challenges.

2. Low Upfront Costs

Getting started in the pub industry can feel out of reach for those without a large pot of savings. A turnover tenancy lowers the barrier to entry with a much smaller deposit requirement than most traditional agreements.

This makes it possible for more ambitious and passionate people to step into the trade and begin building their pub business without needing a huge upfront investment.

3. Capped Rent, More Reward

The capped rent model is one of the biggest advantages of a TTA. Once your sales reach the cap level, you keep every extra penny of profit.

This means you’re directly rewarded for growing your business, whether it’s attracting more regulars, building a strong food or events offer, or running a popular sports pub. Your hard work translates into more money in your pocket.

4. Backing from Stonegate

Running a pub doesn’t mean going it alone. With a turnover tenancy, you’ll have the support of Stonegate, the UK’s largest pub company. That includes training, guidance, and practical help like structural repairs, so you can focus on making your pub the best it can be.

Stonegate also provides marketing materials, business development support and access to tools that help operators succeed. It’s a partnership designed to set you up for long-term success.

5. Opportunities Across the UK

Whether you picture yourself running a bustling city centre bar, a traditional community pub, or a seaside venue, there are turnover tenancy pubs available across the UK.

From the North East to the South West, and from Wales to Scotland, you’ll find opportunities to run a pub that suits your goals and lifestyle. Each location has its own personality, whether it’s student crowds, local sports fans, or seasonal visitors, giving you the chance to build a business that works for you.

Is a Turnover Tenancy Right for You?

A turnover tenancy is designed for people who want the freedom of running their own business with the reassurance of a supportive agreement behind them.

It’s ideal if you’re ambitious, community-minded, and ready to take control of your own venue, but want to reduce the risks that come with traditional tenancies.

Take the Next Step

If you’ve been thinking about running a pub, a turnover tenancy could be the best way to get started. With lower upfront costs, capped rent, and the backing of Stonegate, you’ll have everything you need to succeed.

👉 Learn more about our Turnover Tenancy Agreement here
👉 Browse all turnover tenancy pubs across the UK