Thistle, Cumnock

Admiral Taverns are looking for an experienced licensee(s) who has a desire to inject new energy and vitality into the business while building upon its existing strengths. Ideally the licensee(s) should have a proven track record in managing multi-faceted businesses, demonstrating the ability to oversee various aspects of pub operations, including food service, entertainment, and customer experience. with a passion for food and culinary expertise. The licensee(s) should be able to develop a menu that appeals to both locals and visitors, using fresh, high-quality ingredients and offering a diverse range of options. The licensee(s) should prioritize creating a friendly and inviting environment where both locals and visitors feel at home whilst implementing a strong marketing plan executed to leverage both traditional and digital channels, including social media, to attract new customers and increase footfall to the pub.

Pub Layout

From the main entrance you will be greeted by reception. To the left of reception there is a small, traditional bar which boasts an open fire. With a mixture of low level fixed and loose seating, this area is complimented by a pool table and TV’s showing live sporting events. To the right of the reception is a beautiful restaurant. In contrast to the bar, this has a contemporary feel to provide the perfect ambiance and has seating for up to approximately 40 covers. The site is surrounded by a beautiful grassed area. There is a paved area to the side of the main bar complete with benched seating for those perfect summer months. There is a small car park to the right of the pub which can park approximately 6 cars.

The Thistle is a well-rounded establishment that balances its role as a local community pub with its appeal to locals and visitors. With an 80/20 split towards food, The Thistle places significant importance on its food offerings. The emphasis on “good quality home cooked food” suggests a menu that prioritises traditional, hearty meals. The pub has successfully embedded itself within the local community, evident from its solid core of loyal regulars. Its commitment to quality food, engaging with the local community, and effective advertising strategies contribute to its success as a welcoming and popular destination in Cumnock.

Private Accommodation

There is no private accommodation at this site.

Annual Rent: £30,000

Security Deposit: Initial deposit of £3,000 building up to £5,000 or the equivalent of three months’ rent, whichever is greater

Working Capital: £2,000

Stock: £3,000

Fixtures and Fittings: To be confirmed upon valuation –  funding options may be available for the right licensee.

Tie: All drinks categories are tied.  For fully funded licensees on long term agreements, we offer free-of-tie options for certain drinks categories in exchange for an annual fee.

For a breakdown on financial information, please refer to the ‘Additional Info’ tab.

Annual Rent – This is our lowest rent figure associated with a Full Tie.  If the tie is reduced the effective rent (via Tie Release Fees) will increase.  Rent is billed and paid for weekly in advance depending on the payment terms agreed). On occasion, our Business Development Manager will discuss a start up rent which is discretionary to an individual pub and can be discussed.

Security Deposit – This sum of money will be held on your account and will be returned to you on exiting of the pub based on your final account balance and the condition of the property.  Our standard deposit is 25% of the headline rent.  On occasion, we can negotiate a lower security deposit with the aim to build up to our full deposit on a long term agreement.

Working Capital – This is a recommend amount required which will be used in the day-to-day running of the business.

Stock – This will be valued by an independent valuer on the day you take over the pub. This includes unbranded glassware, unopened bottles, wines, spirits, any unopened / opened kegs and cask ale providing the container is unopened.

Fixtures & Fittings – This includes any item that is bolted to the floor or walls, and a fitting to be any item that is free standing or hung by a nail or hook. This will also include furniture.

Tie: All drinks categories are tied.  For fully funded licensees on long term agreements, we offer free-of-tie options for certain drinks categories in exchange for an annual fee.

Training – £350.00 – Before signing a long term agreement, you will be required to attend our 7 Steps to Sales Success training programme.  Held online over two days, you will learn marketing and business strategies that will help you to grow sales in your pub – step-by-step.

Service Charge Cost – £63.33 per week – The Admiral Taverns Premium Maintenance Package will help take care of your compliance and statutory obligations with one simple fee, whilst giving you piece of mind about your boiler and cellar cooling repair and replacement.  This also includes full access to e-learning for you and your staff.

*Zero Business Rates – Based on the April 2023 rating list, the Nil Rates Payable is based on small business rates relief being applied for by the licensee and the licensee only occupying one property for commercial purposes.  Please note, this only applies to pubs marked with an Asterix *