Two More UK Pub Chains Considering Dublin Move

After the recent activity of British pub chain Wetherspoons in acquiring two Dublin premises, it is being reported that two other major UK pub chains are also scouting for investment opportunities in Ireland.    Several large suburban Dublin Pubs have in recent weeks been approached by intermediaries acting on behalf of Green King, the brewer of Old Speckled Hen ale.    Green King is one of the largest brew-pub chains in Britain operating just under 1,000 pubs and leasing a further 1,200. It is considered to be a major rival to JD Weatherspoon, who just recently agreed to purchase Tonic in Blackrock and The 40 Foot in Dun Laoghaire.    The Irish Times today reported that South Dublin Publican Charlie Chawke, who owns the Dropping Well, the Old Orchard Inn and the Goat, confirmed that he had been approached by an intermediary representing Green King.    The paper also claims that a third unnamed British pub chain is currently in the market to expand to Ireland and is scouting potential opportunities.   Greene King, which is listed on the London stock exchange has a market capitalisation of £1.82 billion.