25 Tim Sykes

chairman, Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers; chairman, Interpub (new entry)

Why he is on the list:

Sykes chairs Interpub, the specialist operator running back-packer hostels and pubs, operating under the Belushi or St Christopher's Inn banner. He was recently named chairman of the Associated of Licensed Multiple Retailers (ALMR), replacing Alex Salussolia, who becomes president. His experience with Watney's and Grand Met includes launching Inntrepreneur's lease.

What the past year has held:

Interpub now runs 19 outlets in the UK and Europe and this year has seen the opening of one of the company's most ambitious schemes, which saw the launch

of a 350-bed complex in Paris. A new Belushi bar in Hammersmith, London, has also opened its doors. Sales rose 8.1% to £11.2m last year, with pre-tax profits also rising by 1.3% to reach £414,000.

Challenges ahead:

The company says it is actively seeking new sites and is looking to Europe as the main focus of its expansion over the next few years. Sykes will be enjoying a high profile as ALMR chairman, where trade issues will come at him thick and fast. Multiple operators are an important and growing sector of the pub retail market, who rely on the ALMR to get their voices heard.