St Austell acquires 3rd site in recent months
The south west brewery and pubco has also recently added the Wellington in Boscastle, Cornwall and the Beaver Inn in Appledore, Devon to its estate.
St Austell Brewery chief executive Kevin Georgel said: “We are pleased to announce the Blue Ball inn, Lynmouth has joined our managed pub estate. This latest acquisition continues to drive forward our plan to strengthen and grow our pub estate in Cornwall, and across the wider south west, in the years to come.”
The Blue Ball inn is a traditional coaching inn dating back to the 13th century. Located 900ft above sea level in the hamlet of Countisbury, it’s a dog-friendly destination with overnight accommodation.
Clear vision
Like so many industries, he said, hospitality was facing significant headwinds at the moment, with rising inflationary pressures like the cost of energy causing real challenges for the company.
Georgel continued: “As we continue to navigate these obstacles, it’s vital that the government continue to listen and invest in the recovery of our sector.
“That being said we are a business with a clear vision for the future and, while we may face short-term challenges, our long-term strategy has not changed.”
Investing in people
St Austell’s priority remained investing in its people and properties, said Georgel. He concluded: “We’re committed to creating year-round employment opportunities in rural areas like Lynmouth and protecting Great British pubs, which are really important assets to communities across our operating region.”
Earlier in the year, the Family-run operator announced a new leadership team alongside its 175th acquisition – the Wellington Hotel.
Andrew Turner – who joined the business in March 2020 as managing director of beer and brands – was promoted to a newly created role – chief operating officer.
Furthermore, Paul Harbottle was appointed the company’s first commercial director. He joins with a wealth of experience over the past two decades from across the sector including senior roles at JD Wetherspoon, Bermondsey Pub Company and Ei Group.
