Are you thinking about running a pub but wondering if you’re the right fit? Many people dream of taking on a pub tenancy, but hesitate because they don’t know what it really takes.

At Joule’s Brewery, we work with successful pub tenants, some came from hospitality backgrounds, others had never pulled a pint in their life. The truth? There’s no one-size-fits-all path to becoming a great pub landlord, but there are certain traits that consistently lead to success.

If you’re exploring pub tenancy opportunities with Joule’s Brewery, here’s what we look for in a potential tenant.

A Genuine Passion for People

Running a pub is all about people. From greeting locals at the bar to hosting events and managing staff, strong interpersonal skills are key. Knowing your locals favourite drinks goes a long way! Building relationships with your customers gains their trust and support on your journey. It also gives new customers a positive experience, which ensures return visits and positive reviews!

You don’t need to be an extrovert, but you do need to enjoy building relationships.

A Community Mindset

The best pub tenants don’t just run a business, they create a hub. Whether it’s quiz nights, live music, events or Sunday roasts, tenants who engage their local area see more repeat business and build lasting loyalty. Pubs are the honeypot of the community and tenants with a true community mindset are the ones who thrive over the years.

If you’re excited by the idea of becoming a local fixture, a pub tenancy could be your perfect next step.

Strong Work Ethic and Self-Motivation

Running a pub isn’t your typical 9–5. It’s a hands-on lifestyle with long hours, but the rewards are worth it. Great tenants are proactive, adaptable and happy to roll up their sleeves. Many tenants live on-site, so finding a healthy balance between home and work is important.

You’ll be your own boss, and with a little self-discipline and motivation, you can really make the most of this opportunity.

A Willingness to Learn

You don’t need years of hospitality experience to succeed as a pub tenant. Some tenants come to us new to the trade, while others bring extensive experience. What unites them all is a genuine willingness to learn, whether through our brand training, brewery tours or hands-on experience.

For those new to the trade, we offer the Darwin Agreement a one-year support and training program designed to build confidence and skills from day one.

Business Awareness

You don’t need to be a financial expert, but understanding the basics of profit, stock control, staffing costs and margins helps a lot. Great tenants are open to planning, budgeting, and thinking long-term.

Remember, the pub is a business and when you treat it with care and attention like one, you set yourself up to thrive.

Resilience and Problem-Solving

Things won’t always go smoothly from tricky customers to unexpected maintenance issues. Great tenants stay calm, think on their feet and keep their eye on the bigger picture.

If you’re the type to find solutions instead of problems, you’re exactly who we want to talk to.

Brand Ambassadors

Joule’s Brewery is very proud to work in partnership with our tenants, who are our brand ambassadors. Steeped in over 200 years of history, brewing our own beers and owning the sixth oldest beer trademark in the world, we value tenants who champion the brewery and share the same passion for its heritage as we do.

As a tenant, you’re part of the Joule’s family sharing our love for the brewery’s history and spreading that passion with your local crowd.

So, Could You Be Our Next Great Pub Tenant?

If this sounds like the kind of challenge you’re ready for, we’d love to hear from you!

Joule’s Brewery is always on the lookout for passionate, community-driven individuals who are ready to make their mark running a pub. Whether you’re experienced in hospitality or starting fresh, we offer full support, flexible tenancy options and a growing estate of fantastic pubs waiting for the right person.