Scottish Pubs Code Adjudicator: Annual Delivery Plan 2025-26

Foreword

by Sarah Havlin, Scottish Pubs Code Adjudicator

Scotland’s tied pub sector remains a vital part of our social, cultural, and economic fabric. My role as the Scottish Pubs Code Adjudicator is to ensure that the Code is implemented in a way that reflects fairness, transparency, and respect for the rights of tenants. We recognise the challenges and opportunities facing the sector—and we remain committed to supporting a constructive regulatory environment where all stakeholders can thrive.

Over the coming year, we will continue our efforts to provide clarity and confidence to tenants and pub-owning businesses alike. Through informed engagement, effective oversight, and proactive education, we aim to strengthen trust in the regulatory framework and promote best practices across the industry.

In addition to our core functions, we will:

• oversee the implementation of the Scottish Pubs Code Regulations 2024, which came into force on 31 March 2025, ensuring compliance and raising awareness across the sector
• support tenants in exercising new rights, including the Market Rent Only lease option and the ability to stock guest beers, which enhance commercial flexibility and tenant autonomy
• enforce the Code through investigations, arbitration, and financial penalties where necessary, ensuring accountability and fair dealing
• provide guidance and training resources, including pre-entry awareness modules, to help tenants and pub-owning businesses navigate the Code confidently

I would like to thank all those who contribute to the continued success and resilience of Scotland’s pub sector. I look forward to working with you in the year ahead.