Thinking about running a pub or taking on a pub tenancy? Becoming a successful pub landlord is about more than just pulling pints—it requires a mix of business skills, customer service, and industry knowledge. Here are the top 10 essential skills every landlord needs to run a thriving pub business.
- People Skills & Customer Service
A great pub business thrives on its local community, and as a pub tenant, you need to be the heart of it. Building rapport with customers, remembering their go to pint, and handling complaints professionally can boost customer loyalty and encourage repeat business.
- Business & Financial Management
Running a successful pub means keeping a close eye on profit margins, stock control, and overheads. Understanding cash flow, supplier costs, and pricing strategies is essential for financial stability.
- Leadership & Team Management
Your staff are key to delivering great customer service. A skilled pub landlord needs to hire, train, and motivate a strong team while handling shift scheduling and ensuring excellent service standards.
- Knowledge of Licensing & Regulations
Understanding UK alcohol licensing laws, health and safety regulations, and food hygiene standards is crucial when running a pub business. Failure to comply can lead to hefty fines or even loss of your personal license, so staying up to date is a must.
- Conflict Resolution & Security Awareness
Dealing with difficult customers, enforcing responsible alcohol service, and managing pub security are all part of the job. A landlord knows when to refuse service and how to de-escalate situations to keep their pub venue safe and welcoming.
- Event Planning & Marketing
Live music, quiz nights, and large scale events can help your pub business stand out. Knowing how to promote events through social media marketing, pub promotions, and local advertising can attract new customers and increase footfall.
- Beer & Beverage Knowledge
Customers expect a pub landlord to know their ales, cold beers, and spirits. Proper cellar management, keeping beer lines clean, and offering a great selection of drinks makes for a great visit.
- Food & Menu Planning
Even if you’re running a wet-led pub, offering pub food can boost revenue. Whether it’s a traditional pub menu or classic bar snacks, knowing how to manage food suppliers, control costs, and price dishes effectively is a great advantage.
- Adaptability & Problem-Solving
Owning or managing a pub comes with unexpected challenges—staff no-shows, supply shortages, or maintenance issues. A successful pub landlord needs to be adaptable, handling problems quickly to keep operations running smoothly.
- Strong Work Ethic
Running a pub tenancy business isn’t a 9-to-5 job. It involves long hours, late nights, and early mornings. Having a strong work ethic and a passion for hospitality will help you stay motivated and deliver an excellent experience for your customers.
Whether you’re looking to take on a Joule’s Brewery pub tenancy, already managing a Joule’s tap house, or exploring opportunities within the Joule’s estate, developing these 10 key skills will set you up for success.
If you’re interested in running a Joule’s pub or want to learn more about Joule’s tenancy agreements, get in touch today!