BrewDog co-founder Martin Dickie steps down from the business
BrewDog co-founder Martin Dickie has parted ways with the Scottish craft brewer, citing personal reasons for his decision.
Dickie, who co-founded the company with James Watt in 2007, said he is stepping back from the broader alcohol industry after 20 years.
This announcement comes just a month after Dickie unveiled a new business focused on the medicinal cannabis market.
This development follows a phase of change at BrewDog.
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Dickie, who co-founded the company with James Watt in 2007, said he is stepping back from the broader alcohol industry after 20 years.
This announcement comes just a month after Dickie unveiled a new business focused on the medicinal cannabis market.
This development follows a phase of change at BrewDog.
more »
26/Aug/2025 13:17
Slug & Lettuce celebrates 40 years with £6.5m investment from Stonegate
Over the past 18 months, Stonegate Group has invested more than £6.5 million into its renowned Slug & Lettuce brand, strengthening its standing as one of the UK’s leading bar chains.
The £6.5 million investment encompasses 12 completed refurbishments. A further four are scheduled before the end of the financial year. This forms part of a strategic programme designed to refresh the brand’s look and feel, with the goal of positioning Slug & Lettuce venues as the ultimate social destinations.
Highlights of the programme include £837.
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The £6.5 million investment encompasses 12 completed refurbishments. A further four are scheduled before the end of the financial year. This forms part of a strategic programme designed to refresh the brand’s look and feel, with the goal of positioning Slug & Lettuce venues as the ultimate social destinations.
Highlights of the programme include £837.
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21/Aug/2025 07:53
Brakspear records 7% increase in sales for 2024
JT Davies & Sons Holdings Limited, the parent company of Henley-based pub operator Brakspear, reported a 7% rise in turnover for the financial year ending 29 December 2024, reaching £41.3 million. Adjusted EBITDA fell by 2% to £10.7 million.
Underlying profit before tax, adjusted for a £0.7 million impairment charge, stood at £7.5 million, slightly up from £7.4 million the previous year.
Turnover increased from £38.6 million in 2023 to £41.3 million in 2024, driven by growth across all areas of the business.
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Underlying profit before tax, adjusted for a £0.7 million impairment charge, stood at £7.5 million, slightly up from £7.4 million the previous year.
Turnover increased from £38.6 million in 2023 to £41.3 million in 2024, driven by growth across all areas of the business.
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19/Aug/2025 08:18
Vagabond to launch UK’s largest urban winery at Canada Water
Vagabond Wines, the self-pour wine bar group, has signed a deal for 6,000 sq ft of space within British Land and AustralianSuper’s 53-acre Canada Water Masterplan, with the venue expected to open later this year.
The new Vagabond bar will house the UK’s largest urban winery, introducing large-scale winemaking to Central London alongside immersive experiences and a selection of over 100 wines available by the glass.
Supported by investment from parent company Majestic Group, the facility is set to quadruple Vagabond’s English wine production.
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The new Vagabond bar will house the UK’s largest urban winery, introducing large-scale winemaking to Central London alongside immersive experiences and a selection of over 100 wines available by the glass.
Supported by investment from parent company Majestic Group, the facility is set to quadruple Vagabond’s English wine production.
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31/Jul/2025 08:14
Oakman Inns enters administration resulting in closure of six pubs and loss of 159 jobs
Oakman Inns entered administration this week, leading to the closure of six pubs and the loss of 159 jobs.
PwC was appointed as administrator for both Oakman Inns and Restaurants and its development arm, Oakman Dev, on Monday (21 July).
Shortly after, 14 of the group's sites were sold to Upham Inns in a deal that safeguarded 531 jobs. However, no buyer was found for the remaining estate.
The Oakman Group was founded by Peter Borg-Neal.
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PwC was appointed as administrator for both Oakman Inns and Restaurants and its development arm, Oakman Dev, on Monday (21 July).
Shortly after, 14 of the group's sites were sold to Upham Inns in a deal that safeguarded 531 jobs. However, no buyer was found for the remaining estate.
The Oakman Group was founded by Peter Borg-Neal.
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24/Jul/2025 08:08
BrewDog set to shut down 10 pubs across the UK this week
Craft beer chain BrewDog has revealed it will close 10 of its bars later this week, including its original venue in Aberdeen.
The closures are believed to be part of a new strategic shift for BrewDog’s hospitality division and are expected to put around 100 jobs at risk.
The bar chain stated that it had made efforts to keep the sites open, but admitted it 'has simply not been possible to make these bars commercially viable.'
All 10 venues are scheduled to close on July 26.
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The closures are believed to be part of a new strategic shift for BrewDog’s hospitality division and are expected to put around 100 jobs at risk.
The bar chain stated that it had made efforts to keep the sites open, but admitted it 'has simply not been possible to make these bars commercially viable.'
All 10 venues are scheduled to close on July 26.
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23/Jul/2025 13:03
Upham Inns acquires 14 pubs following the administration of Oakman Inns and Restaurants
Upham Inns, a premium pub operator in southern England, has acquired 14 pubs from Oakman Inns & Restaurants following the company’s entry into administration on Monday, 21 July.
It is understood that the deal includes the freehold of The Three Locks in Stoke Hammond, Buckinghamshire, along with 13 leasehold pubs. Among them, are The Beech House locations in Amersham and Beaconsfield.
The acquisition effectively doubles Upham Inns’ existing estate. Not included in the transaction are The Beech House in Watford and three other sites.
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It is understood that the deal includes the freehold of The Three Locks in Stoke Hammond, Buckinghamshire, along with 13 leasehold pubs. Among them, are The Beech House locations in Amersham and Beaconsfield.
The acquisition effectively doubles Upham Inns’ existing estate. Not included in the transaction are The Beech House in Watford and three other sites.
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22/Jul/2025 08:14
Marston’s unveils new family-friendly pub brand, “Woodie’s”
Marston’s, leading local pub group, has introduced Woodie’s—a new family-friendly pub concept aimed at bringing people together and creating memorable moments for all ages.
Marston’s is set to transform a number of its existing pubs into the new Woodie’s concept through full refurbishments. The first to undergo the change is The Skymaster in Warrington, Cheshire, which will reopen as a Woodie’s at the end of July—perfectly timed for the summer holidays.
Each revamped venue will feature dedicated family-friendly zones.
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Marston’s is set to transform a number of its existing pubs into the new Woodie’s concept through full refurbishments. The first to undergo the change is The Skymaster in Warrington, Cheshire, which will reopen as a Woodie’s at the end of July—perfectly timed for the summer holidays.
Each revamped venue will feature dedicated family-friendly zones.
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14/Jul/2025 08:40
National Fruit Show 2025
The National Fruit Show is set to return on 5th November 2025 to the Maidstone Exhibition Hall in Kent.
Boasting the best of British produce and technology, the National Fruit Show is the ideal place to meet new and existing clients.
While fruit growing has changed immeasurably over the last eight decades, one thing remains constant. At the heart of the National Fruit Show is the stunning display of competition entries – around 60 metres of the best of British top fruit.
For further information please visit www.
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Boasting the best of British produce and technology, the National Fruit Show is the ideal place to meet new and existing clients.
While fruit growing has changed immeasurably over the last eight decades, one thing remains constant. At the heart of the National Fruit Show is the stunning display of competition entries – around 60 metres of the best of British top fruit.
For further information please visit www.
more »
10/Jul/2025 08:39
Greene King revitalises London’s oldest LGBTQIA+ venue with major six-figure investment
The City of Quebec—London’s oldest LGBTQIA+ pub, owned by pub company and brewer Greene King—has officially reopened to the public following a significant six-figure refurbishment.
Located on Old Quebec Street in the heart of Marylebone, the City of Quebec is an iconic social landmark in central London and a longstanding pillar of the LGBTQIA+ community since its founding in 1946. Originally popular with RAF pilots in the post-World War II era, the pub has maintained its historic charm while evolving into a vibrant and inclusive gathering place.
The investment has fully revitalised the City of Quebec’s interior.
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Located on Old Quebec Street in the heart of Marylebone, the City of Quebec is an iconic social landmark in central London and a longstanding pillar of the LGBTQIA+ community since its founding in 1946. Originally popular with RAF pilots in the post-World War II era, the pub has maintained its historic charm while evolving into a vibrant and inclusive gathering place.
The investment has fully revitalised the City of Quebec’s interior.
more »
01/Jul/2025 08:14
Vagabond to launch flagship London wine bar as part of renewed expansion drive
Vagabond Wines will launch its flagship wine bar this August in London’s St Paul’s, taking over the former site of Channel 4’s First Dates restaurant.
Taking over the former Paternoster Chophouse—a D&D restaurant that closed and relocated in late 2020—the new Vagabond Wines bar will offer over 110 wines by the glass and provide seating for more than 250 guests.
Vagabond has signed a 15-year lease on the site, marking its first new bar launch since being acquired by Majestic in April 2024 following an administration buyout.
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Taking over the former Paternoster Chophouse—a D&D restaurant that closed and relocated in late 2020—the new Vagabond Wines bar will offer over 110 wines by the glass and provide seating for more than 250 guests.
Vagabond has signed a 15-year lease on the site, marking its first new bar launch since being acquired by Majestic in April 2024 following an administration buyout.
more »
25/Jun/2025 08:52
RedCat snaps up first new venue in three years
RedCat Hospitality has made its first pub acquisition in nearly three years, marking a return to its growth strategy.
The group has acquired the Warwick Arms Hotel, a 40-room property near Warwick Castle dating back to the 1600s, tapping into the thriving pubs-with-rooms market.
The property will join the Coaching Inn Group, a collection of 35 historic hotels acquired by RedCat in 2021.
RedCat’s latest purchase is its first since August 2022.
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The group has acquired the Warwick Arms Hotel, a 40-room property near Warwick Castle dating back to the 1600s, tapping into the thriving pubs-with-rooms market.
The property will join the Coaching Inn Group, a collection of 35 historic hotels acquired by RedCat in 2021.
RedCat’s latest purchase is its first since August 2022.
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24/Jun/2025 17:36
Heartwood Inns launches sixth pub with rooms
Award-winning Heartwood Inns has launched The Ragged Robin in Godalming, marking its sixth pub with rooms as it continues to expand toward its goal of offering over 400 rooms by 2027.
Previously operating as The Manor Inn under the Beefeater and Premier Inn brands, the pub has been renamed The Ragged Robin—a tribute to the diverse flora and fauna found in the surrounding meadows.
Situated on the outskirts of the historic market town of Godalming, Surrey, and backing onto the River Wey, The Ragged Robin has undergone a thoughtful multi-million pound refurbishment.
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Previously operating as The Manor Inn under the Beefeater and Premier Inn brands, the pub has been renamed The Ragged Robin—a tribute to the diverse flora and fauna found in the surrounding meadows.
Situated on the outskirts of the historic market town of Godalming, Surrey, and backing onto the River Wey, The Ragged Robin has undergone a thoughtful multi-million pound refurbishment.
more »
19/Jun/2025 08:17
UK's largest pub company Stonegate considers potential job cuts
The UK’s biggest pub company is reportedly gearing up for job cuts in response to increasing cost pressures.
This follows a report from The Telegraph that Stonegate has enlisted restructuring firm AlixPartners in recent months to provide advice on cutting up to 150 jobs across its head office and central functions.
A spokesperson for the Be At One owner confirmed: “Over the past two years, the size of our managed estate has decreased, while our pub partners and craft union divisions have grown.
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This follows a report from The Telegraph that Stonegate has enlisted restructuring firm AlixPartners in recent months to provide advice on cutting up to 150 jobs across its head office and central functions.
A spokesperson for the Be At One owner confirmed: “Over the past two years, the size of our managed estate has decreased, while our pub partners and craft union divisions have grown.
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18/Jun/2025 16:40
Star Pubs invests over £100,000 supporting women’s sports this summer
Star Pubs is spending over £100,000 helping pubs to capitalise on the business boosting opportunities presented by the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup and Heineken sponsored UEFA Women's EURO this summer.
With interest in women’s sports on the up, over a thousand pubs are expected to sign up for the company’s free Women’s Euro kits. This include posters, fixtures display, decorations, table talkers and digital assets – and it is anticipated that around 800 pubs will take up the free 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup promotional packs. These include digital and printed point of sale. Heineken branded staff t-shirts.
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With interest in women’s sports on the up, over a thousand pubs are expected to sign up for the company’s free Women’s Euro kits. This include posters, fixtures display, decorations, table talkers and digital assets – and it is anticipated that around 800 pubs will take up the free 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup promotional packs. These include digital and printed point of sale. Heineken branded staff t-shirts.
more »
16/Jun/2025 09:39
Matthew Fowler named Chief Financial Officer at Revel Collective
Matthew Fowler has been names Chief Financial Officer at Revel Collective, formerly known as Revolution Bars Group.
He succeeds Danielle Davies, who resigned in March to pursue a new opportunity.
Effective from 16 June, Fowler will oversee the Revolution, Revolución de Cuba, and Peach Pubs brands as the group aims to restore confidence in its outlets following a major restructuring plan implemented last September.
Fowler joins from online retailer MusicMagpie.
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He succeeds Danielle Davies, who resigned in March to pursue a new opportunity.
Effective from 16 June, Fowler will oversee the Revolution, Revolución de Cuba, and Peach Pubs brands as the group aims to restore confidence in its outlets following a major restructuring plan implemented last September.
Fowler joins from online retailer MusicMagpie.
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12/Jun/2025 08:15
Urban Pubs & Bars announces significant new £250,000 partnership with Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity
Urban Pubs & Bars, London’s largest independent pub and dining group, has announced a major new partnership with Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity (GOSH Charity).
This ambitious initiative aims to raise £250,000 over the next two years in support of GOSH Charity’s largest-ever fundraising campaign, Build it. Beat it. The campaign seeks to raise £300 million to help create a world-class new Children’s Cancer Centre at Great Ormond Street Hospital.
Over the next two years, Urban Pubs & Bars will leverage its venues and dedicated teams to host fundraising activities.
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This ambitious initiative aims to raise £250,000 over the next two years in support of GOSH Charity’s largest-ever fundraising campaign, Build it. Beat it. The campaign seeks to raise £300 million to help create a world-class new Children’s Cancer Centre at Great Ormond Street Hospital.
Over the next two years, Urban Pubs & Bars will leverage its venues and dedicated teams to host fundraising activities.
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03/Jun/2025 08:19
Mark Brooke named CEO of Amber Taverns
Amber Taverns has named Mark Brooke as its new Chief Executive Officer.
He is set to join the company in mid-August, bringing with him four years of experience as Managing Director of Proper Pubs at Admiral Taverns.
Brooke also brings extensive industry experience, having held senior operational roles at Hawthorn Leisure and Ei Group/Stonegate Pub Company between 2011 and 2020.
Admiral Taverns.
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He is set to join the company in mid-August, bringing with him four years of experience as Managing Director of Proper Pubs at Admiral Taverns.
Brooke also brings extensive industry experience, having held senior operational roles at Hawthorn Leisure and Ei Group/Stonegate Pub Company between 2011 and 2020.
Admiral Taverns.
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27/May/2025 08:17
Greene King plans to sell Venture Hotels business in £90 million deal
Greene King is reportedly seeking to offload its Venture Hotels division in a deal estimated to be worth £90 million.
The pub giant is said to be in discussions to sell the 39-site Venture Hotels portfolio to RedCat Pub Company.
Venture Hotels encompasses Everly Hotels, the boutique brand introduced by Greene King last year as part of its strategy to enter the premium accommodation sector.
The debut Everly Hotels site.
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The pub giant is said to be in discussions to sell the 39-site Venture Hotels portfolio to RedCat Pub Company.
Venture Hotels encompasses Everly Hotels, the boutique brand introduced by Greene King last year as part of its strategy to enter the premium accommodation sector.
The debut Everly Hotels site.
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20/May/2025 10:36
Tommy Banks and partners unveil Jeopardy Hospitality
Restaurateur Tommy Banks has announced the launch of Jeopardy Hospitality, a new venture created in partnership with Matthew Lockwood, his brother James Banks, and entrepreneur Neil Armstrong.
The group’s first project under the Jeopardy Hospitality banner is the restoration and reopening of The General Tarleton, a beloved North Yorkshire venue, scheduled to welcome guests later this summer. Through this initiative, the team seeks to revitalise treasured establishments and foster a renewed sense of community and purpose across the UK.
Acknowledging the vital role pubs play in British culture.
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The group’s first project under the Jeopardy Hospitality banner is the restoration and reopening of The General Tarleton, a beloved North Yorkshire venue, scheduled to welcome guests later this summer. Through this initiative, the team seeks to revitalise treasured establishments and foster a renewed sense of community and purpose across the UK.
Acknowledging the vital role pubs play in British culture.
more »
19/May/2025 11:33