South-west pub group gears up to expand portfolio

The Country Pub Group has bought two sites from the Flatcappers pub group, bringing its total portfolio to three pubs.

The acquisition of the Battleaxes in Wraxall and the Castle Inn in Bradford-on-Avon signals the beginning of the group’s growth in Somerset and the surrounding areas.

It plans to grow by one site every six months and to acquire small groups of properties or single-site operators.

The two sites were bought off a guide price of £300,000 together. 

The group also owns the Mendip Inn in Shepton Mallet, which has seen the addition of four guest bedrooms.

Matthew Lowe, owner of the Country Pub Group, said: “We’re excited to have purchased two venues that align with our group vision, and feature guest accommodation that is in line with the Mendip Inn’s latest addition – recently refurbished character bedrooms.

Food focus

“Quality, simplicity and crafting beautiful dishes that are mouth-wateringly good is the foundation upon which the Country Pub kitchens work. We will be focusing on providing great service and even better food in all three venues, using locally sourced, seasonal produce whenever possible.” 

Lowe told The Morning Advertiser​: “Somerset has a number of great sites that align with our acquisition strategy and the outlook on the area is positive, with high levels of occupancy and a strong food-led venue following.”

Previous Flatcappers operations manager Tony De Brito (pictured) will stay with the sites and oversee for the Country Pub Group to achieve its vision.

Mike Osborne, business advisor from the Fabulous Group, who supported the group in the acquisition process, said: “The Country Pub Group has seen brilliant success at the Mendip Inn through concentrating on service and quality in all three offerings – food, drink and accommodation. 

“These two new venues are a great strategic fit with the concept on which the Country Pub Group will be developed and grown over the coming years.”