31|03|2026 Statement
We have now fully eliminated all but one franchise as a potential partner moving forward - JD Wetherspoon. If we proceed with this option, this would be a Union‑run franchise. Allowing us to bring fresh energy, improved consistency, and new opportunities. This partnership would relate solely to their brand, products, and systems — and we want to reaffirm the key commitments we shared previously:
- Bar spaces would remain wholly owned and operated by the Union.
- Staff would continue to be Union employees, just as they are now.
- We would continue to run our events, and the space would remain under Union control.
- Prices will stay low — and may even decrease.
- Students and staff would have opportunities to speak directly with the franchise and raise any concerns should we proceed.
We are continuing to work with the University to secure approval for the loan required to move forward with this project.
If the loan is approved, our Chief Operating Officer and External Commercial Consultant will then present our Board of Trustees with three options, each outlining the risks and benefits to the Union:
- Partner with JD Wetherspoon to develop our bar spaces and trading services.
- Invest in our existing spaces to make them more financially sustainable and better aligned with student needs.
- Potentially neither and we close the bar.
We understand you may have questions or feedback during this continued consultation period. There are several ways to get in touch:
- Email us at union@, with the subject line Main Bar Consultation.
- Submit feedback online.
- Book a meeting with Alice, our President of Union Affairs.
- Ask a question at one of our regular drop‑in sessions in Main Bar every Friday up to and including 1 May, between 2–3pm.
Find out more here: https://www.yourunion.net/about/main-bar-consultation/