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The French have their brasseries, the Italians their trattorias; we have our pubs. Our mission is to reconnect pubs back to UK farmers and food producers.

WHY DO WE BUILD PUBS?

Pubs hold a central place in UK culture, symbolising hospitality, national pride, and community spirit. They are more than venues for food and drink; they serve as vital community hubs that can reconnect people with the land through sustainable food systems. Many pubs have lost this connection, and rebuilding it requires fostering cooperative relationships between farming and hospitality. This collaboration supports both sectors, aligning them around shared goals and mutual growth.

A key focus is educating the public about the importance of food production and championingregenerative agriculture. By serving regenerative produce, pubs can promote  healthier food systems, support traditional farming practices, and inspire broader change. This approach highlights the dual importance of food systems for personal health and planetary well-being.

With approximately 38,000 pubs across the UK, their collective purchasing power is significant. Thechoices they make in sourcing food directly impact the type of food system they support. Pubs also enhance community engagement, which is critical for building public backing for a regenerative and forward-thinking food system. While the path forward may be challenging, a commitment to continual effort, learning, and celebration ensures that pubs retain their role as cherished community focal points and stewards of sustainable practices.

WHY MUST WE SUPPORT BRITISH FARMING?

The UK food system faces significant challenges, shaped by economic, environmental, and social factors. Intensive farming practices have led to severe soil degradation, biodiversity loss, and ecosystem disruptions, while overproduction and cosmetic standards contribute to widespread food waste. Transitioning to regenerative agriculture is critical for supporting farmers, preserving ecosystems, and improving sustainability. Government policies have historically favored large-scale farming, creating barriers for smaller, sustainable practices.

Recent reforms, such as the Environmental Land Management Scheme (ELMS), aim to address these issues, but their impact remains uncertain. Fragmented food policy further complicates efforts, highlighting the need for a cohesive and holistic approach. Both agriculture and the pub industry have faced significant declines due to rising costs, labor shortages, and climate unpredictability, with thousands of businesses lost in recent years. Local sourcing initiatives are hindered by inadequate infrastructure, limiting smaller producers’ ability to scale and meet market demands. A coordinated strategy is essential to support local food systems, enhance resilience, and promote sustainability.

OUR SOLUTION

The connection between food and the land has been lost, with consumers prioritizing appearance over nutritional value. Perfectly shaped produce and premium cuts of meat are demanded at the expense of farmers, who face rejection of imperfect crops and challenges in utilizing whole animal carcasses. This disconnect burdens growers who invest  in crops that may not meet strict specifications or lack the resources to access fair markets.

Pubs offer a practical solution by purchasing directly from growers, ensuring fair pricing and reducing waste. Skilled pub chefs can creatively valorize imperfect produce — turning bolted spinach into creamed dishes or roasting small, irregular carrots — and utilise whole carcasses efficiently, balancing cuts across diverse menu items like pies and slow-cooked meals. To support this model, a central production kitchen is essential. It would streamline logistics, enable pubs to buy directly from farmers, and process whole animals and crops effectively. This approach ensures fair compensation for growers and cost savings for pubs, addressing key challenges in the food system while promoting sustainability and reducing waste.

OUR VALUES

Restoring the Identity of the Great British Pub

The identity of the Great British Pub is rooted in its long-standing tradition as a community hub. This value emphasises restoring pubs to their former glory, where they were not just places to drink, but centres of social interaction, culture, and local pride. By celebrating the unique character of each pub and its historical significance, this value aims to revive the traditional role of pubs as vital parts of community life. This approach fosters a sense of belonging and local heritage, attracting both locals and tourists who appreciate the authenticity and charm of a quintessential British pub.

Circular Economy

Adopting a circular economy model in pubs means emphasising sustainability and waste reduction. This involves practices such as local sourcing to minimise carbon footprints, recycling and reusing materials, and reducing food waste through innovative means like food preparation and composting. By integrating circular economy principles, pubs can contribute to environmental sustainability, support local economies, and reduce operating costs.

A Triple Bottom Line

The triple bottom line approach focuses on balancing social, environmental, and economic goals. This value ensures that pubs are not only financially viable but also socially responsible and environmentally sustainable. By prioritising people, planet, and profit, pubs can create a more holistic and ethical business model. This approach encourages fair labour practices, community engagement, and sustainable resource management, contributing to a positive impact on society and the environment. It also helps build a resilient business that can adapt to changing market dynamics and consumer preferences.

REGENERATIVE FARMING

Regenerative farming is an agricultural practice that aims to restore and enhance the health of the soil, biodiversity, and overall ecosystem. It takes a holistic approach by focusing on soil health, biodiversity, and reducing chemical inputs. This approach promotes sustainable and resilient food production systems. Regenerative farming helps combat climate change, conserve water, preserve biodiversity, and produce healthier and more nutritious food.