JD Wetherspoon has unveiled ambitious plans to open twelve new pubs across the United Kingdom and Spain before the end of July, marking a significant expansion for the renowned pub chain. This development comes amidst a challenging financial landscape for the hospitality sector, with the company recently issuing a profits warning.
Continental European Debut in Spain
The most notable addition to Wetherspoon's portfolio is its first-ever pub in continental Europe, set to open at Alicante Airport in Spain. Named the Castell de Santa Bàrbera, this venue is scheduled to welcome customers from February 9. It will operate seven days a week, from 6am to 9pm, featuring nearly 1,000 square feet of customer space on a single level, complemented by an external terrace with seating.
Key UK Openings and Locations
The expansion includes several high-profile openings within the UK. A substantial new 485-seater pub in Bath is due to open on March 3, while four new pubs at the Haven Holiday Park in Hayle, Cornwall, are set to launch on April 2. Additionally, students at Birmingham University will gain a new Wetherspoon venue from May 25.
The full list of new Wetherspoon pubs, as first reported by The Sun, is as follows:
- Alicante Airport – February 9
- Bath – March 3
- Flookburgh (Cumbria) – March 3
- Great Yarmouth – March 24
- Blackpool – March 31
- Hayle, Cornwall (four at Haven Holiday Parks) – April 2
- Fareham – April 7
- Birmingham University – May 25
- Edinburgh – July 21
Financial Challenges and Sales Performance
This expansion announcement follows a recent profits warning from Wetherspoon, which reported a £45 million increase in costs during the first half of its financial year. Rising expenses for energy, wages, repairs, and business rates have contributed to this financial pressure. Founder and chairman Sir Tim Martin stated that profits in the first half are "likely to be lower" compared to the same period last year.
Despite these challenges, Wetherspoon has experienced a positive sales trend. Like-for-like sales growth improved to 6.1% in the 12 weeks to January 18, up from 4.7% in the previous quarter. Over the crucial Christmas period, comparable sales surged by 8.8% in the three weeks to January 4. The company currently operates approximately 800 pubs across the UK.
Government Support and Future Outlook
In response to the hospitality sector's struggles, Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to unveil a relief package for pubs, estimated to be worth around £300 million. This support is timely, as pubs face the end of coronavirus business rates relief in April, coinciding with the introduction of a new business rates calculation system.
Sir Tim Martin commented on the company's outlook, noting, "If the current sales momentum continues, the company currently anticipates a full year trading outcome slightly below that achieved in 2024-25." This expansion strategy, therefore, represents a bold move to drive growth despite ongoing economic headwinds.
