Is Greg Mulholland right?

Those who attended the Tenanted Pubco Summit in June were treated to some strong views put forward by Greg Mulholland, MP and equally robust responses from Ted Tuppen.  The following commentary forms a preface to a series of articles around the tied pub model – in particular to examine the substance of the criticisms raised by Greg Mulholland and taking into account the legacy of the Beer Orders.

Guidance notes to the new block exemption includes specific reference to Listing Fees - or 'upfront access payments' as they are now known. There are some points to consider for drinks companies who are involved in this practice.

The Tenanted Pub Company Summit on 8 June 2010 turned into a spectator event with the audience treated to some sharply contrasting opinions from Ted Tuppin of Enterprise Inns plc and Greg Mulholland, MP. 

The provisions of the new EU Block Exemption and the Guidelines recently issued by the Commission contain a number of points which will be of interest to brewers and also to pub companies who rely on the leased tenanted model.  The impact arising from this has much wider implications than merely whether the tie remains.