Bolton Inns partners with Star Pubs & Bars on West Midlands pub

The Hare & Hounds, in Halesowen, Dudley, is the pubco’s first pub with Star Pubs & Bars.

The pub will be closed for five weeks as it undergoes renovations worth £270,000, which will include a redesign of the pub’s seating to cater for 91 people inside and 88 outside, and the addition of a new commercial kitchen to serve pub food and coffee.

Decor inside the pub will include colourful leather banquette seating, panelling, stylish wallpaper and a feature fireplace.   

Stock at the Hare & Hounds will include value and premium beers, ciders, and spirits, in addition to the pub’s existing range of wines, including Prosecco and Champagne, being extended.

The pub will endeavour to champion cask ales, offering a choice of local ales and bitters.

'Potential'

Bolton Inns managing director, Edward Bolton said: “We don’t take on any pubs. We’re only interested in sites where we can add value and in working with brands, like Heineken, and pub companies, like Star Pubs & Bars, that will provide meaningful support.

“We recognised the potential of the Hare & Hounds immediately. It’s in a great location overlooking Hagley Road, near a school and where there are customers with disposable incomes.  

“With investment we knew that the Hare & Hounds could give locals what they’ve been crying out for… a great family-friendly community pub on their doorstep, offering the type of food, drinks and entertainment that previously they have had to travel for.

The pubco is aiming to grow its estate to 12 to 15 pubs in the next few years.

'Share our vision'

Star Pubs & Bars regional operations director Caren Geering said: “We’re delighted that Edward and the team at Bolton Inns have taken on the Hare & Hounds as they have extensive experience of turning around community locals, share our vision and know the area well.    

“The introduction of food and coffee are increasingly important to a pub like the Hare & Hounds, as they give people more reasons to visit. It is investments like this that allow pubs to evolve and stay relevant to their communities, ensuring their ongoing sustainability.”