Urban Pubs & Bars and Greggs dominate the 2025 MCA Hospitality Awards

Urban Pubs & Bars Takes Top Pub Honour

The MCA Hospitality Awards ceremony on March 13 at London’s Guildhall crowned Urban Pubs & Bars as the Best Pub Company of the year. The title acknowledges the group’s knack for blending traditional British pub ambience with modern service standards across its rapidly expanding portfolio. Ben Atkinson, who runs the multiple operator’s division, also snagged the Rising Star award, a nod to his rapid ascent and fresh ideas that are reshaping the chain’s front‑of‑house culture.

Industry commentator Finn Scott‑Delany praised the company’s resilience, especially after the post‑pandemic recovery period. "Urban Pubs & Bars has shown that you can innovate without losing the cosy feel that makes a pub a community hub," he said.

Greggs Sweeps Consumer Choice & Leadership Awards

Greggs emerged as a double‑winner, capturing the inaugural Consumer Choice award, a metric‑driven honour based on Lumina Intelligence’s nationwide customer satisfaction data. The bakery chain’s emphasis on affordable, tasty options clearly resonated with diners across the UK.

Equally impressive was the recognition of CEO Roisin Currie as Leader of the Year. Her strategic push into new product lines—including plant‑based offerings—and a refreshed brand identity have driven both sales growth and a stronger public profile.

• Albert’s Schloss in Soho earned Best New Opening for its bold German‑inspired menu.
• The Devonshire, also in Soho, was named Best Pub or Bar Concept, praised for its retro‑modern interior.
• Flight Club took home Best Experiential Concept, thanks to its immersive darts lounge.
• Veteran Clive Watson received the Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating decades of industry mentorship.

Scott‑Delany highlighted that the awards are peer‑voted, meaning the winners truly earned the respect of their own professional community. “These accolades are a testament to the creativity and grit that keep our sector vibrant,” he added, hinting at even bigger innovations on the horizon.