As part of its overall investment activity, the company ploughed more than £17m in its Pub Partners estate to support its “fantastic local entrepreneurs around the UK”.
Significant refurbishments in the managed estate have been showcased by the £840,00 development of a new Slug & Lettuce in Glasgow, which opened in October.
In Chester, Be At One opened its 41st location following a near £600,000 revamp of the former Havana bar while Off the Wall, also in Chester, underwent a £700,000 refurbishment, enhancing its Social Pub & Kitchen food, draught beer and sports offering.
Leopard-print pool tables
New concepts launched included Rita’s Beerhall & Ballroom in Leeds, which was formerly a Walkabout pub, with a £1m investment. The beer hall with cocktails also gives guests live music seven days a week, leopard-print pool tables, 24-inch pizzas and margarita slushies.
Stonegate introduced Heritage Pubs and Pubsmiths within its managed estate as well – aligning 80 food-led pubs with the needs of their communities.
Stonegate has also invested significantly in its Craft Union Pub Company, an operator-led model focused on putting quality pubs at the heart of their local communities.
This year marked a milestone with the opening of the 600th Craft Union pub, the Fleece & Flagon in Witney, Oxfordshire, following a £220,000 transformation of the former Chequers Inn.
With a focus on supporting local charities and causes, the Craft Union estate has now grown to around 650 pubs across the UK.
Milestone year
Finally in 2024, the final Craft Union investment was at the Anchor in Battersea, south London, which enjoyed a six-figure sum refurbishment that included a new darts area, a revamped bar and upgraded outdoor facilities.
Stonegate Group CEO David McDowall said: “[This year] has been a milestone year for us. We’ve invested heavily across our estate, from supporting our Pub Partners to ensuring every site is set up for long-term success.
“I’m really proud of what we’ve achieved this year and it’s been awesome to see the positive impact of our teams’ hard work on these investments.
“I’m looking forward to building on this momentum in 2025 as we continue to invest in the future of the great British pub.”
