The Isle of Man branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has welcomed the news that JD Wetherspoon will be opening its first pub on the island, describing it as a positive addition to Douglas’ hospitality sector.

Despite concerns raised by some members of the island’s Licensed Victuallers’ Association (LVA) about the potential impact on existing pubs, David Halliwell, former chairman and current pubs data coordinator and press liaison officer for CAMRA, sees the arrival of Wetherspoon as an overall benefit.

‘On balance, Wetherspoon won’t replace the ‘local’, and a good, well-run local pub will always survive on style,’ Mr Halliwell said.

‘Wetherspoon won’t threaten that.’

Wetherspoon, often simply referred to as ‘Spoons’ by its regulars, is one of the UK’s most recognisable pub chains.

Founded by entrepreneur Tim Martin in 1979, the company opened its first pub - Martin’s Free House - in Muswell Hill, north London.

It was renamed Wetherspoon shortly after, taking its name from one of Martin’s former teachers.

Since then, the brand has grown to become a fixture on high streets and in town centres across the UK and Ireland, operating nearly 800 pubs and several hotels.

Renowned for its low prices, no-frills approach, and large, often converted buildings, it is also well-known for repurposing former cinemas, theatres, banks, and post offices into pubs, many of which retain historical features and are often named after local figures or landmarks.

While it has its critics, the company has a loyal customer base and has played a major role in the UK’s pub trade over the past four decades.

Its arrival on the Isle of Man marks the first time the chain has operated outside the UK and Ireland.

CAMRA, a volunteer-driven organisation dedicated to promoting real ale, cider, and traditional pubs, believes the pub chain’s presence could even help boost the wider hospitality industry.

‘Wetherspoon offers a unique experience that isn’t currently available on the Isle of Man,’ Mr Halliwell added.

‘They appeal to a broad range of customers, and in other towns where they’ve opened, they have actually helped to revitalise the retail and hospitality trade.’

While acknowledging concerns from other pub operators, he noted that Wetherspoon has historically catered to a different market, offering breakfast service, tea, coffee, and affordable meal options alongside their well-known drinks menu.

Mr Halliwell also highlighted the chain’s commitment to local brewers as another reason to be optimistic.

‘They don’t just pay lip service to local breweries,’ he said.

‘In many parts of the UK, Wetherspoon has established long-term partnerships with regional breweries, and there’s no reason why that couldn’t happen here.’

As with all Wetherspoon pubs, The Conister Arms is expected to incorporate nods to local history in its design, something Mr Halliwell believes will help integrate the brand into the island’s cultural landscape.

‘A visit to a Wetherspoon is almost like a history lesson,’ he said. ‘They always showcase local heritage, and I expect Douglas will be no different.’