Samsung is set to provide thousands of pounds worth of TVs and audio equipment to pubs across the UK, enhancing the viewing experience for sports fans. Over the past four weeks, thousands of nominations were submitted, and the final 11 shortlisted venues have now been announced as part of Samsung’s Raise the Bar campaign.
Campaign Details
Former England footballer Joe Cole expressed his enthusiasm: “Across the UK, pubs are gearing up for the exciting summer of football ahead and it’s fantastic to see all the shortlisted venues and how they truly represent the heart of their communities. Each one brings something special to matchday, from the atmosphere to the people behind the bar. Now it’s over to the fans. Get behind your local, show them your support and vote for your favourite to give them the chance to upgrade their TV setup.”
Zeena Hill, Senior Director of Marketing at Samsung UK, added: “Pubs have long been at the heart of UK communities, bringing people together to connect, celebrate and share major sporting moments. But with rising costs and increasing pressure on venues, it’s becoming harder to invest in the technology needed to meet fans’ expectations. Through this campaign, we wanted to support their long-term future, helping them continue to thrive as vital local hubs.”
Prizes and Voting
Ten of the shortlisted venues will receive a brand-new Samsung TV worth up to £3,000, along with local marketing support. One venue will be awarded a tech upgrade and pub makeover valued at up to £15,000, plus dedicated marketing and media support. Football fans can cast their votes at watchitonasamsung.com.
Shortlisted Pubs
- The Bevy – Brighton, South East: Britain’s only community-owned pub on an estate, operating not for profit but for people. It supports over 300 locals monthly through seniors’ lunch clubs, dementia cafés, disability discos, and job support.
- The Lord Byron – Margate, South East: A small independent pub backed by nearly 2,000 loyal regulars. Owner Tony, a full-time firefighter, expanded the venue during lockdown with a 100-seat beer garden.
- Bird in Hand – Woking, South East: Owned by locals Mike and Imogen for over a decade, this hub is known for award-winning food (best restaurant in Surrey for two consecutive years) and a warm atmosphere.
- The Wheatsheaf – Tunstall, West Midlands: Established in 1774, Tunstall’s oldest pub is family-run, cosy, and popular with families and football fans, supporting local initiatives.
- Royal Oak – Biddulph, West Midlands: A lively, family-run pub with strong community ties, hosting live music, charity events, and major sports, including an outdoor fan zone.
- Grey Horse – Newcastle, North East: The last remaining pub in Shiremoor, a key social hub for over 40 years where generations gather for celebrations and meetups.
- New Marske Institute Club – Middlesbrough, North East: A historic village club at the community’s heart for over 150 years, revitalised after facing closure in 2022, now thriving with local events.
- Pear Tree – Fulham, London: A lively local institution with 200 years of history, uniting Londoners through community events and social gatherings.
- Sadler’s Cat – Manchester, North West: A contemporary, community-built pub in NOMA, blending modern hospitality with local ethos, supporting communal gardening projects.
- Quintrell Inn – Newquay, South West: A classic Cornish pub with a friendly atmosphere and strong local ties, serving as a relaxed social hub for residents and visitors.
- Raunds Town Football & Social Club – Raunds, East Midlands: A vibrant hub centred on grassroots football, bringing fans, families, and residents together for match days and celebrations.
To support your local, visit watchitonasamsung.com and vote before the deadline.
