JD Wetherspoon slows Irish growth plan over 'volatile' commercial property prices

The boss of British pub operator JD Wetherspoon has said “volatile” commercial property prices are putting the brakes on the company’s growth plans in Ireland.

Wetherspoon’s five Irish-based pubs – located in suburban Dublin and Cork city centre – weren’t mentioned in the group’s latest trading update, yesterday, but speaking after its publication, founder and chairman Tim Martin said they are currently performing well and the group remains committed to expanding in Ireland.

However, he said the wait for planning permission for acquired sites and high prices being quoted for potential new sites are slowing Wetherspoon’s growth here.