Wetherspoon Boss Tim Martin Set for Knighthood in 2024 New Year Honours!
From One Pub to Nearly 900
Tim Martin, the founder and chairman of Wetherspoon, is reportedly about to be knighted in the 2024 New Year Honours. Starting in 1979 with just one London pub, Martin turned Wetherspoon into a giant with nearly 900 pubs across the UK. Known for cheap meals and drinks, his chain is a favourite for budget-conscious Britons everywhere.
Brexit Champion and Business Maverick
Martin didn’t just make waves in the pub trade—he became a high-profile Brexit supporter. He campaigned side-by-side with Boris Johnson during the EU referendum, earning a reputation as one of the loudest voices backing the Leave campaign.
Political Heavyweights Back the Honour
Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch has thrown her weight behind Martin’s knighthood, insisting Brexiteer entrepreneurs deserve top honours. Former MEP Nigel Farage lauded Martin as a “larger-than-life character” and a “true entrepreneur to his fingertips.”
Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg praised him too: “Tim not only was brave enough to take up the political cudgels in support of the majority of the British people, but he also brings daily cheer to people’s lives through the good value provided by his pubs. A true British paladin.”
Former Cabinet minister David Jones added the accolade is “well deserved and long overdue.”
Honours List Officially Under Wraps
The Cabinet Office refused to confirm Martin’s knighthood ahead of the official announcement, with a spokesman saying: “It would be inappropriate to comment on speculation regarding potential honours recipients. The honours list will be published shortly in the usual way.”
What Are the New Year Honours?
The New Year Honours list, released every January and on King Charles’ official birthday in June, celebrates Brits who’ve made outstanding contributions in business, politics, culture, and beyond. If the reports are true, Tim Martin’s knighthood will shine a spotlight on his business success and Brexit crusade alike.
