Roger Whiteside, the recently appointed director of Punch Taverns leased division has come out with some amazing statements, which a number of us have been trying to get through to the Pub Co’s for a number of years with absolutely no success.

The Select Committee Findings have obviously focused some common sense thinking on his part, I just hope that his words will be backed up by constructive actions to solve the problems that now exist and have done for a number of years.

He might like to get all his potential new lessees to access this site and read the “Common Sense Guide to Buying a Pub”, it is totally free, it is not particularly complimentary about Pub Co pre purchase negotiations and discussions.

The aim is to deter unsuitable or ill equipped people from committing financial and emotional suicide in pursuit of an empty dream.

If they do however understand all the problems, minutae and requirements needed to take a lease or tenancy they might just have a far better chance of making a success of it, which will be a bonus for the Pub Co and themselves.

If by ignoring this free advice and fail, they cost a Pub Co supposedly £30K in lost revenue etc, I would rather have a “Streetwise” lessee than a succession of failures.

If he or any of Punch minions should look at this site and they feel that the book is of benefit, please ask them to make a donation to the Licensed Trade Charity.