Brigid Simmonds, Chief Executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, comments:
“The PCA’s tenant survey is an important benchmarking exercise for the sector. It is encouraging that a clear majority of tenants are aware of the Code, including their right to request an MRO (63%). A majority also stated that the relationship with Business Development Managers continues to demonstrate real value. The findings show that some tenants are not aware of specific elements of the Code and the role of the Adjudicator. It is clear that the PCA has a role to play in expanding knowledge, awareness and clarity.
“It is important to acknowledge that the first set of results account for a period in which tenants and pub owning companies were adapting to a new and complex system of regulation. There was no transition or implementation period for the Code, so it is inevitable that new processes and relationships have taken time.
“The BBPA and the six companies covered by the legislation are committed to looking at the findings of the survey in detail. We will continue to work closely with the Adjudicator and other stakeholders to ensure that tenants are fully aware of their rights under the code.”