Punch Taverns has rewarded the cream of their pub estate in royal fashion with an evening of celebration at Hampton Court Palace on 21st May.

The pub company’s Shine awards, which recognise the achievements of the most exceptional licensees from their 7,560 strong leased estate, concluded in style.

The winning licensees, who had each been crowned champions of their region, were treated to a day of pampering and outdoor pursuits at the Four Seasons Hotel in Hampshire, followed by a gourmet dinner and a celebratory evening at Hampton Court.

The evening included a compere in Tudor dress, a harpist, a palace tour as well as surprise performances from award-winning string quartet ‘String Mania’ and The Queen’s Minden marching band in the courtyard.

The event was the final instalment of Punch’s Shine awards which were launched last September.  Over 1000 nominations were received for licensees up and down the country.  

Shortlisted pubs were visited by Punch’s regional operations directors as well as mystery customers who assessed the pubs on a range of criteria.  The pubs that deliver the best food, drink, customer and community experiences were rewarded at 12 awards lunches around the UK – from London to Scotland.

Punch’s operations director Kevin Georgel commented: “It was an honour to recognise these exceptional licensees. We are very proud of these individuals whose passion and drive is truly an inspiration.  At a time when the pub industry faces mounting criticism, it is wonderful to see how these entrepreneurs, with the right offer and support, have created hugely successful businesses.”

Kevin adds: “The event at Hampton Court was excellent - we wanted to make sure our licensees had an experience to remember!”
 
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