Heineken set to buy pub portfolio from debt-laden UK landlord

Amsterdam-based brewing giant Heineken is set to acquire 300 pubs from Britain's largest pub owner, Stonegate, as part of a €350 million deal. Stonegate is reported to have been in discussions with Heineken over the summer, with the aim of reducing its £3 billion debt by selling 1,000 of its 4,500 outlets. Much of the debt stems from Stonegate's acquisition of Enterprise Inns in 2019, shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic crippled the British pub industry for several months.

Furthermore, pubs are grappling with escalating costs associated with beer, energy, wages, and increased employer taxes. Heineken currently operates approximately 2,350 pubs across Britain through its subsidiary, Star Pubs & Bars. The Dutch News service, which provides Dutch news to English-speaking audiences, relies on reader support to continue its operations without charge.

Donations are crucial for the production of original features and daily newsletters, and are greatly appreciated by the editorial team.