Frequently Asked Questions
Leased Questions
How much money do I need to lease a pub?
The amount of money required varies from pub to pub depending on a number of things e.g. location, size of property etc.
How long is does the lease last?
The standard lease term is 5 years; however other lease terms are available e.g. 3 years and 10 years. These options can be discussed at interview stage. For more information please refer to the Lease Guide.
Do I have to buy my beer from Belhaven?
Yes, on most lease deals you are committed to purchasing draught & packaged beer, cider and stout products. However, you are free to purchase wines, spirits, soft drinks and all food products from a supplier of your choice.
What experience do I need to take on a lease pub?
In order to run a leased pub business we would expect that you would have some experience of working in a pub although the level of experience would vary depending on the pub you are applying for e.g. a pub with a large food offer would require someone with commercial catering experience. Equally, experience of managing people, customer service in a retail environment and finance can be useful for running a pub.
When can I have the barrelage figures?
The selection process for taking on a leased pub begins with a general discussion with either the Operations Manager, or the Recruitment Manager. The barrelage figures will be discussed at the meeting. More comprehensive information will be provided when you are ready to prepare a business plan.
Do I need a Personal Licence?
From 1st September 2009 it became law for the sale of alcohol to be authorised by a Personal Licence Holder. Equally, you must be a Personal Licence Holder in order to authorise the mandatory minimum of 2 hours of licensing training for staff. As the process can take up to 3 months (some Licensing Boards can take longer) we strongly recommend that you obtain your Personal Licence as soon as possible.
Managed Questions
Are there any live-in positions?
The provision of living accommodation in managed houses in Scotland is quite different from England, and 98% of our managed pubs do not have accommodation with them. If you are looking to move to another area where you require accommodation you will need to consider either renting or purchasing your own accommodation.
Do you employ management couples?
We do not currently recruit managed couples specifically. Whilst this model has been common practice in England due to the high proportion of pubs with live in accommodation, this is not common in Scotland. When a vacancy is created it is typically for either the manager or assistant for the pub not for both posts. It is rare for both the manager and assistant to leave at the same time, thereby creating 2 vacant positions for a management couple.
What is the salary?
Salaries vary depending on the size and location of the unit. Salaries are generally discussed at the final interview stage and as part of the wider remuneration package, which may include pension, health care and bonus potential.
Is there a training package I can go on before becoming a pub manager?
Generally speaking we recruit candidates with the appropriate level of skills and experience for the position advertised. Our in house training programmes aims to refine existing skills, develop our current workforce and comply with legislative requirements.
