Suffolk-based pub operator and brewer Greene King is to split its 790-strong managed pub estate into two separate divisions.

The two new divisions will be Local Pubs; made up of 510 predominantly community and local pubs, and Destination Pubs; made up of the 280, branded, food-led pubs and hotels.

Destination Pubs will focus on the development and continued roll-out of centrally-developed, marketed and managed brands and formats based on revenue from food sales.

The Local Pubs division will offer pub managers greater autonomy and flexibility to match the individual pub offer to local market needs and opportunities - with most pubs being drinks-led and mostly in community and town locations.

According to Greene King spokesperson, the re-organisation will be achieved with no increase in overheads and minimal disruption.

The company hopes to complete the restructuring by the end of April.

Jonathan Lawson has been appointed managing director of Local Pubs and will become a member of the board. Formerly the retail operations director at Sainsbury's Convenience, Lawson will take up the new position on 10 April.