Fri 21st Nov 2025 - JD Wetherspoon to make international debut JD Wetherspoon to make international debut: JD Wetherspoon is to make its international debut. The company is opening its first pub in continental Europe – at Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernandez airport in Spain, and said it is aiming to open a number of pubs overseas. The franchised pub, which will be named Castell de Santa Bàrbera, is set to open at the end of January 2026. The new-build pub will be located in departures (airside) and open daily from 6am to 9pm. The pub will offer almost 1,000 square foot of customer space on one level, together with an external terrace with seating. Food will be served at all times up to an hour before closing. The menu will include many meals available in Wetherspoon pubs in the UK, including breakfast dishes, burgers and pizzas, as well as local dishes including garlic prawns and Spanish omelette. Wetherspoon founder and chairman Sir Tim Martin said: “We are very much looking forward to opening our first overseas pub. We believe it will be popular with people travelling home from Alicante airport. We aim to open a number of pubs overseas in the coming months and years, including those at airports.” In October, Sir Tim Martin told Propel the company is set to make its international debut in 2026 and has further franchise deals lined up. Speaking following the company’s full-year results where the business reported revenue of £2.13bn for the year ended 27 July 2025, Sir Tim said of a planned first international site: “Yes, we’re close – watch this space. 2026 looks like it will happen.” Wetherspoon features in the Premium Club Turnover & Profits Blue Book, the latest edition of which features 1,182 companies. Wetherspoon’s turnover of £2.13bn is the fifth highest in the database. Companies can now have an unlimited number of people receive access to Propel Premium for a year for £995 plus VAT – whether they are an operator or a supplier. The single subscription rate is £495 plus VAT for operators and £595 plus VAT for suppliers. Email kai.kirkman@propelinfo.com to upgrade your subscription.