Wetherspoon is set to close one of its longstanding pubs in Preston after three decades, causing distress among its regular patrons. The Grey Friar, a popular establishment that has been part of the local scene since the 1990s, is now up for sale.
Although the pub will continue to operate as a Wetherspoon until a buyer is found, the impending closure has sparked mixed reactions from the community. Some disappointed locals have expressed their fond memories and sadness over the news, citing the pub’s unique charm and convenient location as reasons for their attachment.
In response to the closure, Wetherspoon assured that the staff at The Grey Friar will be offered opportunities at other Wetherspoon locations. For those seeking an alternative, the Twelve Tellers on Church Street remains a nearby option in the city center.
On a contrasting note, Wetherspoon recently expanded its portfolio by opening a new pub, the Red Rocks, at a Haven holiday park in Exmouth. This new addition, accommodating nearly 700 patrons, marks one of Wetherspoon’s largest pubs in terms of capacity.
Despite the closure of The Grey Friar, Wetherspoon’s financial performance remains strong, with a reported increase in like-for-like sales in the past quarter. The company’s chairman, Tim Martin, expressed optimism about the upcoming financial year, despite challenges such as rising labour costs due to recent wage and tax adjustments.
Looking ahead, Wetherspoon plans to open more pubs in the coming year, building on its existing network of around 800 pubs across the UK. The company remains resilient in the face of external factors impacting the hospitality industry, emphasizing its commitment to growth and adaptation to changing market conditions.