Over the course of the past few months, we’ve whittled down a record 1,300 entries across 16 categories to identify the top operators.
Unsurprisingly, the judging visits are part of the job we all thoroughly enjoy. Firstly, it gets the team out from behind our desks and spending time in the trade which, admittedly, doesn’t happen quite as much as it should do.
Opportunity
Secondly, it provides us an opportunity to get under the skin of some diverse pub businesses located in different parts of the country and witness first-hand how they are succeeding.
Thirdly, and perhaps most importantly, it offers us a window into what motivates and challenges our readers on a day-to-day basis – and where we can help them.
It’s a genuine privilege for us to spend time with them.
Finalists
Our finalist licensees unquestionably share a determination to succeed and provide a best-in-class customer experience, in spite of the continuing uncertainty in this post-Brexit environment. To my mind, they have a unique mix of qualities that separate them from the crowd – passion, creativity, grit, adaptability to name but a few.
I never fail to be impressed and I applaud them for their achievements. They are the stars of our sector.
Hospitality
It’s always a fantastic occasion and gives licensees and their teams a chance to let their hair down and, for once, be on the receiving end of some top-class hospitality.
On the night our category winners will be revealed, along with the overall champion of champions – the Great British Pub of the Year 2016.
If you’d like to join us on the night then visit here for booking details.