FAQ | CMB Pub

Share ownership - how will it work?

A helpful guide to some of the questions you may have. Please read our Business Plan and Share Guide booklet for more comprehensive information. You can download them here

How much is each share?

Each share costs £1. You can purchase a minimum of 100 shares (£100) and a maximum of 65,000 shares (£65,000).

How many votes will I get?

Every shareholder will become a member of the Community Benefit Society, with an equal vote regardless of your shareholding.

Can a company, group or organisation buy shares?

Yes, but you must nominate an individual to represent them as the named shareholder.

Can I withdraw my shares?

Our shares are described as ‘withdrawable’. They cannot be sold or traded but may be withdrawn subject to the rules of the society as set out in the Withdrawal Policy document. This outlines that no withdrawals will be permitted in the first three years. Thereafter any requests for withdrawal will be at the discretion of the Management Committee.

If I die can I pass my shares on?

Yes, you can nominate someone else on the share application form to receive your shares. Or you can donate your shares to the Society.

Will I get interest on my shares?

Community benefit shares do not offer the opportunity to make a return in the way traditional shares can. The value of community shares cannot increase like regular stocks and shares.

Interest will be paid on shares at the rate of 3% per annum from year four onwards. This will be by way of vouchers to purchase food in the pub. This would only be paid out of current year profits subject to sufficient reserves and approval by the members. Profits generated will be used to invest in the pub or to benefit other community projects.

Can I join the management Committee?

The business will be run by a management committee and elections will be held annually. Every member has the right to stand for election. The elected management committee is responsible for ensuring that the Rules sent to the FCA and the policies adopted at the Annual Members Meeting (AMM) are fully implemented and that those policies are reviewed regularly.

What’s in it for the community?

Already there has been a great show of support from our communities - both in pledges of money and the community meeting we held back in February 2025. As we move forward the presence of an attractive and friendly pub in the village will be a great asset that can bring people together and help foster a sense of pride.

How safe is my money really?

Since community owned pubs began there has only been one closure. This is remarkable and shows that community pubs operate more sustainably than privately owned ones.

How do I pay for my shares?

You can buy shares by making a BACS payment or sending an application form and cheque. Details of both the bank details and the postal address can be found on the share application page or in our Share Offer Prospectus.

Who will run the pub?

On a day-to-day basis the business will be managed by an employed manager and paid staff. The operations of the pub will be closely monitored by the management committee who will regularly report to the members.

What happens if the project does not proceed?

Your money will be returned.