The Papas Group, which operates Papa’s Fish & Chips and Wendy’s, has agreed a new franchise agreement with pub chain Wetherspoon.
The multi-unit agreement will see Papa’s Group manage 15 new Wetherspoon pubs, the first of which will be named The Hykeham Manor and will open on 1st October at Gateway Park, Lincoln, on the site of a former Gateway Park Brewers Fayre.
A further three are set to open in October and November at sites in Annitsford (Cramlington), Stockton-on-Tees and Emersons Green (Bristol).
The Papas Group operates five fish and chip restaurants under the Papa’s name including outlets in Scarborough, Cleethorpes and Blackpool, and owns the primary franchisee for the burger chain Wendy’s in the UK.
Wetherspoon currently has five pubs under franchise with Haven Holiday Parks, as well as franchise agreements with Newcastle and Hull Universities, with a pub operating at each university. It also has a franchise agreement with Thompson Holdings, which operates a pub in the Isle of Man.
Commenting on the news, The Papas Group director Andrew Papas, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be partnering with Wetherspoons to bring 15 new pubs to life across the UK.
“These aren’t just any pubs — they’re beloved community spaces, thoughtfully located outside the traditional high street, yet right at the heart of where people live, work, and gather.
“This partnership is about more than just expansion; it’s about restoration, revitalisation, and reinvestment in our local communities.
“We’re proud to be breathing new life into some fantastic venues, creating hundreds of jobs, and offering unbeatable value, welcoming surroundings and the exceptional service that people expect from Wetherspoon.
“At Papas Group, we believe in building places that bring people together — and we can’t wait to open our doors.”
Wetherspoon commercial director Michael Barron added: “We are delighted to have signed agreements with The Papas Group.
“We are looking at further opportunities and are confident that more franchise agreements will be signed.”
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