Wetherspoon plans 15 new pubs across UK

JD Wetherspoon has announced plans to open 15 new pubs over the next year, building on a reported 5.6% rise in like-for-like sales for the recent quarter. Six locations and opening dates have been confirmed, including The Conister Arms in Douglas, Isle of Man; Walham Green in Fulham Broadway; The Dictum of Kenilworth in Warwickshire; Sun Wharf near London Bridge; The King of Essex in Basildon; and a new site in Merchant Square, Paddington, with more details to follow. This expansion comes after the successful launch of new venues in Marlow, Buckinghamshire, and London Waterloo Station, as well as several franchised pubs in partnership with Haven Holiday Parks. Despite the growth, Wetherspoon faces rising staff and operational costs, with chairman Tim Martin expressing cautious optimism about financial outcomes amid a challenging pub industry landscape that has seen multiple closures. The company is also investing in upgraded staff facilities and trialing new menu offerings, such as a gourmet burger deal. These developments reflect Wetherspoon’s strategy to expand its footprint while navigating broader economic pressures facing the UK hospitality sector.