**Wetherspoon Pubs Facing Closure – Is Yours at Risk?**
In a recent development, a total of 17 Wetherspoon pubs are currently up for sale, with 14 of them already under offer. This news has sparked concerns among loyal patrons of the popular chain, prompting them to check if their favorite local haunt is on the line.
The company’s decision to sell or surrender the lease on these establishments comes after a significant number of closures in the past year. With 41 pubs shutting down last year and 30 more being sold or surrendered this year, it’s clear that Wetherspoons is undergoing some major changes.
While the 14 Wetherspoon branches currently under offer may not be guaranteed to be sold, there is a possibility that they could remain open if the sale falls through. However, if the sale does go through, these pubs are likely to be closed in the coming months and either repurposed or reopened under different management.
**Tim Martin’s Perspective on the Situation**
Tim Martin, the prominent businessman and founder of Wetherspoons, shared his thoughts on the current state of affairs in the latest trading update. He highlighted the gradual recovery in sales and profits following the pandemic, with total sales reaching record levels despite a decrease in the number of pubs.
Martin emphasized the importance of keeping prices competitive, a strategy that has long been synonymous with Wetherspoons. Despite the closure of several branches, the chain remains optimistic about the future and is eyeing up potential new sites in 130 towns and cities once inflation eases.
“People are happy to go out for a pint if you keep the price competitive. It’s not like buying a sofa,” Martin remarked in an interview with The Guardian earlier this year.
**Pubs at Risk of Closure**
The list of Wetherspoon pubs currently on the market or under offer includes:
**On the Market:**
– Ivor Davies, Cardiff
– Market Cross, Holywell
– Pontlottyn, Abertillery
**Under Offer:**
– Hain Line, St Ives
– Asparagus, SW London
– Wrong’un, SE London
– Gate House, Doncaster
– Jolly Sailor, Bristol
– Mockbeggar Hall, Moreton
– Alfred Herring, N London
– Cross Keys, Peebles
– Sir Norman Rae, Shipley
– White Hart, Todmorden
– Spa Lane Vaults, Chesterfield
– Lord Arthur Lee, Fareham
– Regent, Kirkby-in-Ashfield
– Sir Daniel Arms, Swindon
**Previously Closed Pubs:**
The closures of several Wetherspoon pubs have already taken place, including establishments like The John Masefield in New Ferry, The Silkstone Inn in Barnsley, and The Admiral Sir Lucius Curtis in Southampton, among others.
**Conclusion**
In conclusion, the future of Wetherspoon pubs remains uncertain as the chain navigates through a period of transition marked by closures and sales. While the company aims to adapt to changing market conditions and consumer preferences, loyal patrons are left wondering about the fate of their beloved local pubs. As Tim Martin and his team continue to explore new opportunities for expansion, only time will tell what lies ahead for Wetherspoons and its vast network of establishments.
