Admiral opens 200th Proper Pubs site
The community-wet led operator division of Admiral was launched in August 2021, and the group has invested more than £10m into its estate to support its local communities, which includes opening 32 pubs, with 17 coming in the past two months alone.
The Chrystal Bell, in Gallowgate, Glasgow, opened its doors on Friday 1 December after a £220,000 investment and further investment is planned for 2024.
Proper Pubs director Mark Brooke said: “This poignant milestone marks a very proud moment for our team. We have experienced continuous growth in 2023, which is testament to the hard work from everyone, including all our dedicated operators.”
The Gallowgate pub has undergone a complete interior and exterior transformation under the stewardship Angi McKean, who has plenty of experience in the hospitality sector.
Food bank collection
She has already started to collect food for a local food bank and donations to install a defibrillator. The pub will also host regular entertainment, including karaoke and DJ nights.
In the run-up to Christmas, operators across its 200 pubs will be collecting Christmas selection boxes to donate to local charities while the group has also been recognised for its defibrillator campaign, which has saved nine lives within its communities.
Admiral Taverns chief executive Chris Jowsey said: “Reaching our 200th pub across our Proper Pubs division marks a fantastic milestone for Admiral Taverns and I would like to extend a huge thank you to the entire team. We strongly believe in creating long-term sustainable pubs that sit at the heart of their communities and support all aspects of local life.
“We want to ensure that every pub can thrive and make a positive difference within its community.”
Opening night was fantastic
Admiral Taverns other recent reopenings include the St George in Swansea on Walter Road on 29 November, following an investment of £279,000.
Operator of the St George, Andy Simons, said: “Opening night was fantastic, it was amazing to see all our customers, old and new, coming to see what the pub has to offer.”
Meanwhile, the Oddfellows Arms, on Church Place in Eccles, Manchester, reopened on 30 November, following a £270,000 investment.
The pub now has a new bar, flooring and furniture throughout. While outside, the garden has been completely transformed, including new-signage, lighting and a new beer terrace to ensure use all year round.
And the Coach and Horses on Kesteven Road, West Bromwich, in the Midlands, reopened on 1 December after a £285,000 boost.
