Marston's has announced it is to expand its Scottish operations, it has been reported.

According to the BBC, the pub operator and independent brewer hopes to open six new pubs in Scotland next year. It also hopes to open an average of five new pubs each year after that.

As part of its countrywide rollout programme, the firm has unveiled 92 "target locations".

In a statement, the company said its long-term expansion plans represent an annual £15m investment, that will create more than 200 jobs a year as well as more during the construction phases of the projects.

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Currently, Marston has four pubs in Scotland, but within the next 12 months it expects to open sites in Dumfries, Inverclyde and West Lothian to name a few.

In addition, Marston's is scheduled to commence construction work on its first Marston's Inn, which will be located adjacent to its pub in Dunbar. A second hotel in Balloch will be built later this year.

Steve Roberts, head of acquisitions for Marston's, said: "Our first year of trading in Scotland has been strong and we are now ready to step up our search for new sites right across the country.

"We are on the lookout for locations in our target towns and cities that front main roads, are on retail parks or are close to residential developments of more than 500 homes.

"We believe our pub/restaurants are quite a distinct offer in Scotland and the popularity of the ones we have opened so far has encouraged us to expand further our search for new sites."

(JP/MH)