Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast: Stories from the Hospitality Industry, Cassie sits down with J Mark Dodds, a seasoned publican, advocate, and founder of the Fair Pint Campaign. Mark shares his fascinating journey in hospitality, from running the award-winning The Sun and Doves in Camberwell to leading a movement for fairer practices in the tied pub sector.

Mark discusses the challenges of operating under a tied lease, the systemic issues in the pub industry, and his vision for a fairer future through the People’s Pub Partnership—a socially conscious initiative aiming to revitalise pubs as community hubs.

Key Topics Covered:

• Mark’s journey into hospitality, starting in rural Northumberland.
• His experience managing The Sun and Doves, including the financial challenges of a tied lease.
• The Fair Pint Campaign and its role in lobbying for the 2016 Pub Code.
• The ongoing struggles tied tenants face despite legislative changes.
• The vision and goals of the People’s Pub Partnership.
• How pubs can be restored as vital community assets with investment, sustainability, and local focus.

Highlights:

• [00:31] Mark introduces himself and his background in hospitality.
• [03:46] The story of The Sun and Doves: successes and challenges.
• [08:18] The founding of the Fair Pint Campaign and its impact.
• [20:16] The limitations of the Pub Code and what still needs to change.
• [33:33] Mark’s vision for the People’s Pub Partnership: a pub company for the future.

Connect with J Mark Dodds:

• LinkedIn: J Mark Dodds
• Website: www.peoplespubpartnership.co.uk

Join the Conversation:
Mark invites you to join the movement to transform the pub sector. Whether you’re a publican, investor, or community supporter, there’s a place for you in the People’s Pub Partnership.

Subscribe & Share:
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