Wetherspoon sells off five Northern Ireland pubs

Local pub-chain Granny Annie's has bought five of JD Wetherspoon's nine Northern Irish bars. 

The family business will take over the Old Courthouse in Coleraine, the Diamond and Ice Warf in Derry - Londonderry, The Spinning Mill in Ballymena and the Linenhall in Enniskillen. 

A 3 million pound renovation programme will be rolled out across the businesses in the New Year.

It's understood that the move will not result in job losses with all staff transferring to the new owner. 

Chief Executive of Hospitality Ulster. Colin Neill, said it's good news for the local industry:

“This is great news that the local Granny Annie’s Group has announced their purchase of five pubs formerly owned by JD Wetherspoon here in Northern Ireland.”

“We are encouraged to hear that all the staff will transfer across to the new owners and that there will be no job losses. This is especially welcome as we move into the festive season, the busiest time of the year for the hospitality sector.”  

“This purchase and announcement of a significant level of investment by the group shows the confidence that they have in the local hospitality sector right across Northern Ireland. They have already proved that they have successful product at their current venues and we wish them continued success as they roll out the Granny Annie’s brand even further.”