I know of a "couple" who have had this happen as well. Punch promise the earth but never deliver. Phone calls are never returned and "mobiles" always on answerphone. Left to sink or swim, usually to sink like a stone
.
Most of Punches leased estate is up for sale and not necessarily as a going concern. They are selling off their assets. The CEO of their leased estate did much the same with a well known "off licence chain" a few years ago. He left to join Punch. The "Offy" went into Administration at the end of October last year. Watch this space although I hope I am wrong.
We are going to end up with a load of "plastic" pubs with no character or well known "mine host" and very little choice of venue.
Rediculous high rents, low discounts and little or usually no support, coupled with no chance of competing with the big supermarket chains. No chance. Z** :rage: