The company’s biggest garden project will be funded by both Greene King and the licensees at leased and tenanted pubs.
Clive Chesser, business unit director for Greene King Pub Partners, said: “This has been more than just adding new garden furniture. We have made permanent improvements that really add a point of difference, from outside bars to unique landscaping.”
The investments are part of a package of support for tenants to help maximise profit potential.
“The upswing in business from these pubs has been almost immediate and we are all looking forward to a sunny and profitable summer,” Chesser added.
The Anchor, Tilsworth
One pub benefitting is the Anchor in Tilsworth. The large back garden was ideal for families and events, but had not been utilised.
Under new licensee Clint Rogers with joint investment from Greene King the garden was transformed into an attractive, family-friendly space.
An outdoor kitchen was created in a former smoking shelter, and the garden landscaped with new fences, railway sleeper style raised flower beds and steps down to the garden.
A new giant children’s play area was added to help the pub to be family-friendly.
“It looks fantastic and now has real kerb appeal, both at the back and front of this business,” Chesser said.
Dan McKays, Troon
Another pub to undergo investment is Dan McKays in Troon.
A gravel path hindered food service. Under licensee James Welsh, with joint investment from Greene King, the garden was transformed with a new patio. The smoother surface opened the garden up to wheelchair users and buggies.
Benches were refurbished, umbrellas added and flowers planted to add colour.
“Everyone in Troon was keen to take a look when they saw we were having some work done, and we have seen an immediate uplift in trade since the project,” Welsh said.
"It is very much more pleasing to the eye and a more practical space all round.”
In addition to the investment, Greene King Pub Partners provided its tenants with marketing support for the summer, advice on tried and tested business boosters and new ideas from Greene King’s business development managers, and secured deals on popular summer drinks such as Pimms.
For more information on running a pub with Greene King visit www.greenekingpubs.co.uk.