Wetherspoon has revealed intentions to launch a new pub at a university campus. The popular pub chain will manage Joe’s at the University of Birmingham in collaboration with the Guild of Students. Joe’s, named after the university’s iconic clock tower, will retain its management under the Guild of Students.

Scheduled to open in Easter 2026 after a significant renovation, the new establishment will offer the complete Wetherspoon food and beverage selection, including special weekly deals like the Thursday Curry Club. With close to 800 pubs in the UK, Wetherspoon first introduced a university pub at Hull University in 2022.

John Hutson, the CEO of Wetherspoon, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with the Guild of Students, aiming to elevate Joe’s Bar to success. Antonia Listrat, President of the University of Birmingham Guild of Students, highlighted the benefits for students, emphasizing the value-for-money offerings and increased job opportunities at the bar.

The collaboration aims to enhance the student experience and support the Guild’s commercial ventures. Apart from the Birmingham site, Wetherspoon plans to launch six more pubs by mid-January. In related news, the pub chain recently unveiled its Christmas menu, featuring the return of its popular turkey dinner option.

The Christmas menu includes turkey breast slices, stuffing, roasted vegetables, pigs-in-blankets, cranberry sauce, and more. Prices start at £13.99 with a soft drink or £15.52 with an alcoholic beverage, varying by location. Despite some price adjustments from the previous year, the menu will be available until December 31.

Tim Martin, Wetherspoon’s founder, indicated efforts to minimize price hikes despite positive sales and profits. He acknowledged the impact of tax increases on prices in the pub industry but committed to keeping price adjustments minimal.