Investigation into Star Pubs & Bars Limited: Notice of Investigation
Pubs Code Adjudicator decision to launch an investigation into Star Pubs & Bars Limited, part of the Heineken Group.
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The PCA is launching an investigation into the suspected use of unreasonable stocking terms by Star in proposed MRO tenancies.
The Pubs Code Adjudicator and Deputy Adjudicator are particularly keen to hear from any Star tenants who have been offered tenancy terms following service of a MRO notice that included the following, whether they accepted them or not:
a) A requirement for all (or virtually all) of the keg beer stocked to be produced by Heineken.
b) A requirement to stock brands produced by businesses other than Star or group undertakings of Star.
c) Any other requirement to stock an unreasonably high proportion of Heineken brands or brands in which Heineken has a commercial interest.
d) A term that seeks to influence the retail selling price of Heineken brands or brands in which Heineken has a commercial interest.
Any tenants and other interested parties who provide information for the purposes of the investigation will not be identified in the investigation report without their consent. The deadline for submission of evidence is 5pm on 7 August 2019. Evidence should be sent to investigations@pubscodeadjudicator.gov.uk