Craft Union Pub Company is celebrating a significant milestone with the opening of its 300th pub – The Tivoli Tavern in Grimsby.
The Tivoli Tavern has just reopened its doors following a substantial £130k refurbishment project. The pub is now being operated by long-term staff member, Marie Moran (pictured), who has worked behind the bar for more than 20 years.
In line with Craft Union’s philosophy of developing quality pubs at the heart of local communities, under Marie’s stewardship the pub will continue to welcome regulars who have visited the pub for many years, while the complete internal and external refurbishment and a quality beer offering at affordable prices will attract new customers.
Moran said, “When I first met with the company I was so happy to hear they were genuinely planning to maintain the pub’s community feel which all our customers love. The opportunity to become operator came out of the blue. I’ve only ever worked behind the bar but I know this pub inside out and the support I’ve had from Craft Union is incredible. I’m looking forward to the challenge.”
Frazer Grimbleby, Operations Director, Craft Union Pub Company, part of Ei Managed Operations, added, “We are very excited to have opened our 300th refurbished pub which marks a significant milestone in our exciting growth journey.
“Every decision we make, we do so with the community and our operators at the forefront of our minds, and that’s why Craft Union is such a success story. We are so passionate about running pubs that cater for the whole community and we work hard to truly understand what each community needs.
'We recognise the fundamental role our operators play in achieving that, so we’re delighted to have Marie at the helm of The Tivoli Tavern – her appointment epitomises that commitment and the love for her local.
“The Craft Union offering is a winning formula; we have a portfolio of well-invested pubs, an affordable drinks range and a comprehensive sports offer, although whenever possible we zone our pubs to provide separate areas for those customers not looking to watch sport – so we can provide something for everyone.”
Craft Union opened its first pub in May 2015 and while its roots are in the north of England, it has now opened successful pubs nationwide in locations as diverse as Devon, Cornwall, East Anglia, Kent, the Isle of Wight and London.
Reflecting its collaborative approach, around half of Craft Union operators have joined the pub company from Ei Publican Partnerships, the leased and tenanted division of Ei Group.
Following the 300th opening, the pace of new Craft Union openings is set to continue, with a pipeline of further sites planned across the UK.