Chief Executive, ALMR

After 10 years in the Army Nick Bish first joined the industry with Courage where he ran managed pubs and was promoted over 10 years to be Regional General Manager with Imperial Inns & Taverns.

He was then a director with HH Finch the family company with pubs, bars and restaurants in London, and when that company was sold to Young's in 1991 Nick was invited by some leading multiple operators, the founding members, to set up and run their new Association. This was originally to be a part time commitment but before long and as the ALMR grew in size and influence he was appointed firstly as Secretary and then eventually to be the organisation's Chief Executive.

The ALMR is the only national trade body dedicated to representing the interests of pub and bar operators throughout the UK. There are currently 87 companies in membership, and through them the organisation has a reach out to about 30,000 outlets – around half the UK pub and bar estate. 

The Association has been a key influencer in the national debates on licensing reform, smoking in public places and many other issues vital to operators. In 2008 the issues of responsible alcohol retailing remain at the fore as well as supporting operators’ profitability through a difficult phase for the economy as a whole. ALMR briefs and informs its members on these key commercial matters always seeking to promote their business and underpin their bottom line performance.

Nick is also a

• Companion of the BII
• Board member of PASS (Proof of Age Standards Scheme)