Greene King has revealed its intention to launch 30 new franchise pubs this year as part of its expansion plans. The company recently achieved a significant milestone by reaching 100 franchise Hive and Nest concept pubs.
In 2025, Greene King Pub Partners successfully opened 30 new franchise pubs, including its debut in Scotland under the Belhaven brand. Looking ahead to 2026, the company is set to extend its franchise operations into Wales and the Southwest of England with a series of new pub openings.
Among the confirmed locations for this year are Millwrights in Aylesbury, The Freemasons Arms in Wigan, and The Flag Inn in Egerton. In 2025, notable Greene King franchise pub openings included The Tarbet in Edinburgh, the first Greene King franchise pub in Scotland post a £285,000 renovation.
The pub group also revamped The Dolphin in Melbourn into a Hive pub following a £570,000 investment, and introduced the Two Poplars in Wokingham after a £450,000 makeover. Penelope Bruce, Pub Partners Franchise Operations Director, expressed excitement over reaching 100 franchise pubs and highlighted the continuous growth of their franchise offer.
Dan Robinson, Managing Director of Greene King Pub Partners, commended the ongoing success of their franchise business, which complements their leased and tenanted pub business. Greene King recently offered complimentary pints of Guinness during the start of the Six Nations rugby tournament.
To redeem the free pint offer, patrons had to book a table for any Six Nations game on February 7 through the Greene King website. This promotion was available at all Greene King sports pubs, including Flaming Grill, Hungry Horse, and Belhaven, as part of the new Fans Reunited campaign featuring rugby legends Martin Johnson and Jason Robinson.
Zoe Bowley, Managing Director for Greene King pubs, emphasized the importance of sport and the pub environment in uniting people. The Fans Reunited initiative, launched alongside the Guinness Six Nations, aimed to bring old friends together over a complimentary pint and foster connections through shared sporting experiences.