Heineken creates bar list for shoot locations

Pubs and bars in the UK could be destined for Hollywood, following the launch of a new platform that lists on-trade venues as film-ready locations. 

The launch from Heineken is Starring Bars, part of its wider Back the Bars platform.

The brewer and pub operator will be creating a global catalogue of bars as film-ready locations, inviting movie directors, location scouts and other film industry professionals to consider these venues first when looking for a set.

"Bars are more than just places to grab a drink; they are community hubs and cultural landmarks," says Nabil Nasser, global head of Heineken Brand. "With Starring Bars, we’re spotlighting these venues and helping open new commercial opportunities to support them. This initiative is about backing the bar industry in a meaningful way, and we’re inviting the entertainment world to be a part of that."

Authentic settings 

The programme will prioritise bars that serve Heineken beer as filming locations, redirecting commercial production budgets into these businesses. 

By highlighting these character-rich spaces, Heineken says the initiative could put bars at the heart of Hollywood storytelling as authentic settings, while ensuring the bars benefit financially from being featured in film and television productions.

Production teams will have access to real bars they can book for shoots through a growing online catalogue available at starringbars.com. The site includes photos, floor plans and availability, streamlining the scouting process.

Heineken is also sending moving billboards on a tour of major entertainment hubs to call on filmmakers to explore the catalogue and consider bars as prime shoot locations, with playful messages like 'Hey Director, these bars can handle a drama'. 

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