Wells & Co. reopens The Playwright in Nottingham

Pub operator and brewer Wells & Co. has announced the reopening of The Playwright, a Nottingham pub in its managed estate.

Having reopened on Thursday 11 December after a £500,000-plus refurbishment, Wells says the project underscores its "commitment to backing its pub estate" despite the mounting financial and operational pressures facing the sector, heightened by the Autumn Budget.

As well as refreshing both exterior and interiors, the project has introduced new interactive entertainment, such as darts and shuffleboard.

"Our investment in The Playwright recognises the importance and value of the pub experience, while also demonstrating our ongoing support for our teams, ensuring they can continue to thrive, even during challenging times for hospitality," says Benjamin Smith, retail director of Wells & Co.

"Pubs remain a crucial part of our communities, and The Playwright now boasts an experience that builds upon our quality food and drink offer."

Under pressure

Wells released the news days after pub operators around the UK started banning Labour MPs from visiting their venues, as the backlash from the most recent Budget continues. 

The campaign was said to be started by Andy Lennox, who runs the Old Thatch pub in Dorset. After a week of activation, around 50 venues had pledged to take part, with the numbers going up each day.

At the heart of the anger is the lack of support being offered from government as taxes and costs continue to go up. Despite Rachel Reeves' Autumn Budget cutting business rates, relief on the tax is due to come to an end in April 2026, meaning a sharp rise for the majority of businesses.

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