A new website has been created to help tied tenants access
support from the Pubs Code Adjudicator (PCA).
The new independent website Pubs Code
Adjudicator provides tied tenants with refreshed
resources and aims to provide a clearer understanding of the Pubs
Code and the independent role of the PCA.
The PCA is responsible for enforcing the Pubs Code, a law which
protects the rights of tied pub tenants of the six largest pub
companies in England and Wales – Admiral, Greene King, Marston's,
Punch Pubs, Star Pubs, and Stonegate.
As part of the launch, the PCA has created a new brand identity
to further cement its independence and help the PCA be more
visible in the industry. The branding uses a shield icon
alongside classic pub iconography, including pint glasses and
pumps with nods to beer and wine in the colour palette.
Fiona Dickie, Pubs Code Adjudicator (PCA) commented: “It is vital
that tied tenants are able to understand their rights under the
Pubs Code and that they can easily access business critical
information in a simple, digestible format.
“We have listened to their feedback to create a fit-for-purpose,
new resource. This is more than just a new, bright look for the
PCA. It is paramount that we not only have a website that gives
tied tenants better support, but one which demonstrates the
independence of the PCA's arbitration service, offering binding
dispute resolution for Pubs Code disputes.
“To do our job effectively, we must be at the heart of the tied
pub trade and have the trust of tied tenants to work
independently of the pub companies and government. I spend as
much time as possible out and about, including at trade shows,
discussing the impact of the Code and its effectiveness with tied
tenants and licensees, industry leaders and pub-owning
businesses. But ultimately, having the right resources accessible
in an instant on phones, tablets and laptops is one of the best
ways we can help tied tenants understand how the Pubs Code
protects them.”
Views from tied tenants and other industry representatives were
collected to inform the requirements for the new site.
The new user-friendly website has a clear, intuitive layout for
improved user flow. Tied pub tenants will be able to find the
PCA's suite of accessible factsheets, guiding them throughout
their tenancy – from the very beginning before agreements are
signed, through their tenancy and to the end of their term. The
site's improved search functionality also allows visitors to
access information more easily, including published arbitration
awards. This increased transparency will further the PCA's
objective to promote understanding of Pubs Code arbitration and
demonstrate to tenants how the PCA responds to breaches of the
Pubs Code.
The PCA's current presence on www.gov.uk/pca will
remain live to host transparency information such as corporate
reports.
The PCA's Annual Tied Tenants Survey, which seeks the opinion of
more than 1,200 tied tenants to monitor satisfaction levels with
pub companies, has concluded. Results are benchmarked against
previous years and will be announced in June.
To see the new website visit Pubs Code Adjudicator.
