Orchid sets up acquisition vehicle

The Orchid Group has set up a new company, Parkmill Pub Management, to acquire and develop both individual sites and larger acquisitions, such as Premium Bars & Restaurants (PBR).

Magnus Wilson, previously Orchid's operations director, has been appointed as managing director of Parkmill to focus solely on acquisitions and investment.

Orchid, led by Rufus Hall, is looking at a number of other deals — last month it took over the management of the Crown Point Inn, in Sevenoaks, Kent.

Paul Cutsforth, who is joining the Orchid board next month from Peach Pub Company, will take charge of day-to-day operations.

The recent acquisition of PBR led to promotions for a host of Orchid staff.

Darren Traynor became head of operations for Living Room and Prohibition. Traynor was previously the top-performing carvery area manager for Orchid.

Bob Dawson became head of operations for the Ultimate Leisure Bars & Clubs business. He was previously the top-performing area manager in the freehouses division. Adam Bowers became head of marketing for the Ultimate, Living Room/Prohibition and freehouses divisions.

He's been with Orchid since the company's inception in 2006 and held the position of marketing manager for the freehouses division.