The Manchester-based business, which is celebrating its 175th anniversary, runs 127 pubs across the north-west of England.
The business said as many younger customers prefer venues with a traditional, home-from-home feel, the Park Inn in Swinton has just undergone a £120,000 makeover involving retro fabrics, embossed wallpaper, heavy furniture and thick carpets to reflect the historic appearance of local pubs.
Licensee of the site Terry Joy said: “What we often hear from the young people who drink in our pub is that they appreciate the homeliness and cosiness of a place that feels like what they call ‘a proper pub’ – that is traditional, timeless and full of character.
Much more homely
“There’s always a place for modern design but ironically among younger people – perhaps given so much uncertainty in the world and increased loneliness – they want to be somewhere that feels much more homely.”
Other recent renovations include a £250,000 full refurbishment at the Lord Nelson in Pendlebury – with alterations to create a new bar area. It also now has a beer garden for the first time.
The Welcome Inn in Prestwich has also been fully redecorated and updated. The £300,000 programme of work includes alterations to the main function suite to incorporate a bar area.
Meanwhile, Alkrington pub, the Roebuck, has undergone a transformative £1m makeover to include a wraparound bar, beer garden and a private function room.
Dynamic business
Previously known as Thornberries, the Alkrington pub reverted to its original name of the Roebuck after Joseph Holt invited customers to decide what it should be called following its takeover last October.
The Joseph Holt brewery was founded in Manchester in 1849 by weaver’s son, Joseph Holt, and has remained in the same family for six generations. A full programme of development and refurbishments are planned for 2025.
Joseph Holt estates executive Denis Maddocks said: “Despite our long-standing history as one of the north-west’s favourite beer-makers, we are a dynamic business and so constantly look at ways to refresh our pubs as well as new opportunities to expand our estate.
“We very much think about the communities where we’re located and adapt the work accordingly. This year has been an exciting year for Joseph Holt and we’re sure 2025 will herald even more developments.”
