Pubs Code & Market Rent Only (MRO)
This article provides information about the Pubs Code, the role of the Pubs Code Adjudicator (PCA), compliance responsibilities, and useful documentation for Stonegate publicans.
For information on the Scottish Pubs Code please click here.
In July 2016, the Government introduced the Pubs Code etc. Regulations (the Pubs Code). It applies to all pub-owning businesses such as Stonegate Group who own more than 500 tied pubs in England and Wales.
The Pubs Code regulates the relationship between pub-owning businesses and their tied publicans based on two principles:
- Fair and lawful dealing
- A tied publican should be no worse off than a free-of-tie publican
The Pubs Code ensures that tied publicans:
- Receive the information needed to make informed decisions
- Have their rent reassessed if no review has occurred for 5 years
- Can request a Market Rent Only (MRO) option under specific circumstances
- Have all key discussions documented in writing
You can view:
The Pubs Code sets out the specific events where tied publicans can request the MRO option, such as rent review or tenancy renewal.
The Pubs Code is overseen by the independent Pubs Code Adjudicator (PCA).
Visit the PCA website:
PCA – GOV.UK
Contact the PCA
- Online enquiry form
- office@pubscodeadjudicator.gov.uk
- Telephone: 0800 528 8080
- Post: Office of the PCA, 4th Floor, 23 Stephenson Street, Birmingham, B2 4BJ
Keep updated:
Stonegate’s Code Compliance Officer (CCO) is Donna Gracey, Head of Agreement Governance.
For any Code-related enquiries, email:
PubsCode@StonegateGroup.co.uk
Access our Compliance Reports:
The British Institute of Innkeeping provides a list of qualified and accredited professional advisers.