Who Would Help Me Run My Pub? Support Networks Explained
One of the most common questions we hear from future publicans is, "Who will actually help me once I get the keys?" And it’s a great question. Because while running a pub is about being independent, you’re never expected to go it alone.
Let’s break down exactly who’s in your corner, from the moment you say yes, to your first big Friday night, and beyond.
Your Regional Manager: Your First Port of Call
Your Regional Manager (RM) will be your main point of contact. They won’t run the pub for you or tell you what to do, but they are there to advise, guide, and support you with everything from business planning to troubleshooting.
Think of them as your mentor and sounding board. Got a question about your drinks range? Unsure how to grow midweek trade? Want help dealing with a maintenance issue? Your RM is the person to call.
And if you’re brand new to the industry, don’t worry, they’ll guide you through the early stages and help you find your feet.
The Support Centre: For Practical Issues
For day-to-day operational queries, you’ll also have access to the Support Centre. If something goes wrong in your pub, like a maintenance fault, equipment issue, or system error, you can raise a support ticket and they’ll take it from there.
Your RM can also help escalate or explain the process, so you’re never left in the dark.
Other Publicans: Local Wisdom
Publicans often form tight-knit local networks. It’s common for those running pubs nearby to know each other, share advice, and even collaborate on events or promotions.
Not sure who’s around you? Your RM can help introduce you to other publicans in the area. These relationships are invaluable, it’s where real-life experience, trade tips, and emotional support all come together.
Your Induction: Learning the Ropes
Before you get the keys to your pub, you’ll attend a two-day publican induction. This gives you a crash course in all the essentials:
How to pull the perfect pint
Changing barrels safely
Understanding licensing rules
Food hygiene
Consistent shot measures
Health and safety standards
You’ll also find out about support resources like the British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) and the Marketing Club, which you can sign up to for ongoing development and promotional help.
The BII and Professional Advisors
The BII is a professional body that supports publicans across the UK with training, legal guidance, and industry news. It’s a great organisation to be part of, especially if you’re new to the trade.
You may also choose to work with a professional accountant to help with your finances, many publicans find this extremely useful when managing VAT, payroll, and profit planning.
You’re Independent, But Not Alone
Taking on a pub can feel like a big step, but the support around you is designed to help you succeed. From your Regional Manager to fellow publicans, from your induction training to the wider hospitality community, you’ll be joining an industry where people genuinely want to see each other thrive.
If you’ve got the passion and ambition, we’ll help you with the rest.