Punch names its operator of the year

Vassallo was selected as the winner out of fifteen regional finalists, after members of Punch’s Operating Board spent a day in the trade with each of those shortlisted.

Punch chief operating officer Neil Griffiths said: “John is absolutely dedicated and genuinely one of the most professional operators that I’ve ever met. He commands huge respect from all of his licensees as a result of supporting them in driving and developing their businesses.

“John has built huge trust with his licensees through consistent delivery of all his actions and promises and clearly deals with people in a way that he would wish to be dealt with himself.

“All of the finalists were outstanding but what really struck me about John was the respect he showed for his colleagues at our head office.”

Vassallo, who has worked for Watneys, Charrington (subsequently Bass Charrington and then Bass) and Vintage Inns, before joining Punch in 1997, said: “There is no magic about the way I do business. We are in the people business and, establishing and maintaining a sound and credible business relationship with our licensees, in my view, is the foundation to success.

“I have been very fortunate to have worked with great licensees and to have had the support of a strong team around me, without which, a lot of what I have achieved would not have been possible.

“I’m delighted and surprised to win the award, especially knowing that there are very many excellent operators within Punch and not least the ultimate finalists."