SandpiperCI puts Channel Island pubs up for sale

Channel Island-based SandpiperCI has put its pubs, brewery and drinks distribution service up for sale.

Sandpiper operates more than 42 pubs in Jersesy, 21 in Guernsey and two in Alderney as well as the Jeresey Brewery.

Sandpiper acquired the business in August.

"Whilst we have the appropriate expertise, we have identified that our pub estate, along with the two drinks distribution businesses would have greater potential if they were owned and operated by a company dedicated to that sector,"​ said CEO Tony O'Neill.

"We also recognise that it is important to focus our expertise into fewer sectors. This will enable us to develop our retailing operation at a faster pace which includes the substantial investment in four new Marks & Spencer outlets opening in Jersey over the next few weeks."​

London corporate finance advisers, McQueen Limited, will handle the sale, which is expected to be completed early next year.

The sale does not include the Wine Warehouse branded stores, which will remain part of Sandpiper's retail portfolio.