Oakman Inns Parent Company Administration Closes Six Pubs, Cuts 159 Jobs

Six pubs operated by Oakman Inns, including The George in Ludlow and the Navigation Inn in Lapworth, Warwickshire, have closed following the parent company's entry into administration, resulting in 159 job losses. PwC, acting as administrators, cited challenging trading conditions primarily due to the long-term impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, which caused significant closures and restricted trading, forcing the company to take additional borrowings. Despite the closures, the sale of one freehold and 13 leasehold properties to Upham Group Limited secured the continued operation of several pubs and protected 531 jobs. The closures have saddened local communities, with hopes expressed that new owners may revitalize the affected pubs. This development reflects ongoing difficulties in the hospitality sector amid economic pressures and changing consumer behaviors. Meanwhile, other pubs like Greens in Sunderland are experiencing ownership changes and planned refurbishments under new management, highlighting varied outcomes within the industry.