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of Greene King
With nearly 20 years of experience running pubs, Ray Irwin knew the trade inside out. Bonnie Tarleton brought valuable kitchen experience, having worked as a chef and kitchen manager. Both had a deep love for hospitality, particularly the atmosphere, energy and sense of belonging that pubs create. During lockdown, they tested their entrepreneurial instincts by launching a small afternoon tea delivery business. That experience was a turning point and they proved to themselves they could build a business and succeed on their own terms. However, moving from employment to running their own pub business required the right opportunity. They wanted the freedom to be proactive, shape their own offer and become fully embedded in their community but without losing the operational structure and support that helps ensure long-term stability.
of Greene King
Taking on your own pub business can feel daunting especially in a competitive city like Glasgow. For David Dennett, stepping into The Gallus marked an exciting opportunity, but also a significant commitment. “When you commit to running your own business, it can be quite daunting,” David explains. “Knowing you’ve got that level of support from a bigger, more established firm is good.” Like many prospective operators, the challenge isn’t just running the pub, it’s managing costs, marketing, recruitment and driving consistent local trade. Removing those barriers to entry while maintaining independence is crucial. That’s where the Greene King Pub Partners franchise model offers a different approach.
of Greene King
Pauline Huggins was the tenant of The Tarbet Pub on the outskirts of Edinburgh city centre, running a well-established local venue but one that had lost momentum over time. She saw an opportunity to do something bold: reinvest, reposition the pub and create something that truly reflected its potential. Moving to a franchise agreement was a big decision and would mean Pauline was the first Greene King Pub Partners franchisee in Scotland.
of Greene King
After more than two decades working in the hospitality industry in Spain, Sharon returned to her home village of Hazel Grove ready for a new challenge. Having worked independently for many years, she understood first-hand the pressures of running a hospitality business and the demands that come with operating alone. Taking on one of the village's most established pubs was an exciting opportunity, but Sharon wanted to ensure she had the right foundations in place to succeed. Her goal was to preserve the pub's important role within the community while building a sustainable business that could continue to thrive for years to come.
of Greene King
Since taking on the franchise of The Broken Cross, Sammy has transformed the pub into a thriving, community-focused business with its own unique identity. Backed by significant investment, a major refurbishment and comprehensive business support from Greene King Pub Partners, Sammy has increased the pub’s capacity, enhanced the customer experience and created a welcoming destination at the heart of the local community. The pub’s success demonstrates how Greene King’s franchise model enables ambitious operators to bring their own vision to life while benefiting from the support of an established pub company.
of Card Connection
This month marks an incredibly special milestone as John Coe celebrates 20 years with Card Connection!
Known across the business for his incredible humility, dedication, and supportive nature, John has been a pillar of Card Connection through major periods of growth and change, including its transition into the UK Greetings family.
To celebrate this fantastic achievement, John reflects on his journey, shares some of his favourite memories, and reveals what continues to motivate him every day.
of Card Connection
Transitioning from managing retail stores to owning a business can feel like a massive leap, but for London-based entrepreneur Colin Basil, making that move with Card Connection has proved to be the ideal career evolution.
of PILAT3S
Just last year, Anne Mattei opened the first PILAT3S standalone studio in De Pijp,
Amsterdam. Motivated by passion for movement and refined sense of design, she
brought to life a Dynamic Reformer Pilates destination that quickly became a favourite
among Reformer enthusiasts, matcha lovers and De Pijp locals alike.
of NIC Local
Husband-and-wife team Gary and Alison Murdock run an established NIC Local franchise covering Cumbria, North West England and Scotland. With strong roots in Cumbria and backgrounds spanning professional sport, healthcare management and business ownership, Gary and Alison bring complementary skills and a shared ambition to their franchise. Having taken over the longest-established NIC Local franchise through a resale, they inherited more than 25 years of history, an established workforce and long-standing client relationships.
of NIC Local
Maria Mestre is the NIC Local Regional Director for Greater Manchester and Yorkshire. Maria has been part of NIC Local for a decade and has developed a strong reputation for mobilising major contracts, building high-performing teams and delivering consistently exceptional service for her clients. In her own words, Maria shares how she got started with NIC Local, what it takes to grow and protect a successful business, and why great communication remains at the heart of everything she does
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