Signal Box

Reading

Signature Wet Partnership

Your pub with
our backing

Support that
keeps giving

Get off the
ground fast

Award winning
training

Overview

The Signal Box (formally known as Pitcher & Piano) is situated on the main high street in Reading town centre, in close proximity to the train station. This one room operation is decorated to a very high standard and is busy for all occasions. Whether its bubbles over lunch, after work drinks or nights to remember, The Signal Box has it all.

This town centre location is perfectly located to attract hungry shoppers, commuters and tourists stepping off the many trains that pass through Reading and circuit drinkers at the weekend.

Opportunity to grow drinks and food sales by being the venue to go to in Reading town centre. You can also increase revenue by introducing more live entertainment and events throughout the week.

We are looking for an experienced operator that has a background in delivering a strong food offer in a town centre location. They will also have experience in growing both guest satisfaction and sales side by side.

The Signal Box is currently turning over approximately £12,000 per week on a 70/30 wet lead split but has potential to increase sales further.

What’s in it for you?

25% share of weekly sales (excluding VAT) plus a guaranteed annual retained sum of £25K (released weekly)
Low ingoing costs, starting with just a £5,000 deposit and £360 legal cost

Pub features

Food offer

Live acts

How to apply

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Signal Box, Reading

Reading

RG1 1DB

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Partner FAqs

How long is the recruitment process?

We understand that taking on your own pub business is an important decision. We are proud to operate under the provisions of the Pubs Code regulations (2016), by providing certain important information during the recruitment process which will enable you to make an informed decision about the pub business and the agreement which you are applying for. The recruitment process is structured to include meetings with our recruitment and operations team (virtually or in person). The process usually takes 3-6 weeks from application to offer, but varies depending on meeting dates, availability and information required for the completion of the business plan.

How do I obtain a personal license?

For any of our partnership agreements you must have a personal licence to legally operate one of our pubs. We can help in the process of obtaining a personal licence and we do run a free personal licence course at our Head office in Wolverhampton. A member of our recruitment team will be able to discuss this option with you as part of your application or enquiry.

Do I need to pay the whole deposit upfront?

If you receive an offer from us, we will require payment of the full deposit at your earliest convenience. However, from time to time at the Regional Operations Managers discretion a part deposit payment may be made with an agreed deposit builder in place for the remaining amount. The deposit, or deposit builder, would need to be paid before the commencement of the agreement.

How do I receive my % turnover share and guaranteed retained sum?

Takings are banked in a Marston’s account in accordance with the agreements, to allow us to deduct our Management Charge. Your share (‘Retained Sum’) will be settled on a weekly basis. Any guaranteed annual Retained Sum is released on a weekly basis to you at the same time as your turnover % share Retained Sum.

Can I replace the menu? Can I run specials?

In any partner agreement pub with a Marston’s menu on offer there is no opportunity to put on your own version of food or specials due to allergies and food regulations. We do have a number of pubs that do not have a Marston’s menu in, and you are free to put on your own food menu.

What would happen if I wanted to exit the business before the end of the term?

Marston’s are well aware that life doesn’t always go to plan, that’s why most of our Partnerships have an early termination clause which can be triggered by both parties. There is the option to give three or six months’ notice (depending on the agreement) for both parties and would need to be confirmed in writing to your Area Manager.

What development opportunities are there?

Our award-winning learning and development teams offer tonnes of support and training to both partners and your pub teams. When you join us, you will be booked onto our BII* accredited induction programme which includes classroom-based learning, practical sessions and for our food-led businesses, time spent at one of our Centres of Excellence pubs where an experience operator will show you the ropes.

As a Marston’s partner, you’ll also get access to our online training platform where you will be able to access a wide range of free online training courses, tools, and resources. In addition, our trainers will support you with in-person and virtual training sessions when you need the extra help! Our team can also help you access a range of apprenticeships for entry level team members, up to managers and directors.

Can I become a multi-site operator with Marston’s?

We do have multiple pub operators across our business, this is approved on a case by case basis and would need to be approved at a senior level. Feel free to discuss this with a member of our recruitment team in the first instance.

What happens next?

Speak to a member of our team

Meet one of our area managers

Providing you with information on the pub

Present your business plan

Offer and arrangements for taking on your pub business!