The event, held at the First Direct Arena in Leeds on Wednesday 23 September, was hosted by comedian Suzi Ruffell and celebrated the best in the business.
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After scooping both Best Pub for Beer and overall Great British Pub of the Year at the glittering event, owner of the Tamworth Tap in Tamworth, Staffordshire, George Greenaway, said the impact had been significant.
“We’ve welcomed new customers who have travelled considerable distances to see what all the fuss is about, alongside our wonderful regulars who have taken enormous pride in the recognition,” he told The MA.
Greenaway added the accolades had not only raised the profile of the pub, but Tamworth itself, while giving the business a platform to highlight the challenges facing independent venues.
“The awards have given us a fantastic platform to showcase what a small, independent pub can achieve,” he continued.
Greenaway noted even being shortlisted could bring valuable recognition and opportunities, particularly at a time when the pub trade was facing significant challenges.
Nationwide exposure
“I would wholeheartedly encourage other operators to [enter] the awards when they return next year,” he said.
“They provide the opportunity to reflect on your achievements, celebrate your team and demonstrate what makes your pub special.
“More importantly, awards like these shine a much-needed spotlight on the incredible contribution pubs make to their communities and the wider hospitality industry. At a time when running a pub has rarely been more challenging, that’s something well worth celebrating.”
The benefits have also been felt at this year’s Best Pub for Food, the Kirkstyle Inn & Sportsman’s Rest, with covers having risen 13.5% compared with the same period last year.
Commenting on the win, head chef Connor Wilson said: “Winning means all the hard work the team put in is recognised on a national level, and that we are proudly representing Northumberland and the North Pennines.
“For the business it gives us nationwide exposure, and it is a stamp that certifies our efforts and helps empower us to confidently continue doing what we believe in.”
In addition, restaurant manager Nick Parker said the recognition had been warmly received by the local community, with some residents making special trips to congratulate the team.
Valuable feedback
He told The MA: “It has been amazing to see what a positive effect the award has had on our locals – they are so proud.
“The feedback from restaurant guests, many of whom come from far and wide, has also been very positive, most tables have offered their congratulations.”
The Plough Inn Prestbury in Cheltenham was also among the winners at this year’s awards, taking home the gong for Best Pub for Families.
Gibbon told The MA the business had seen new customers coming through the doors and regulars congratulating the team over the past month.
She said: “It has been lovely to see new faces and have customers come in a congratulate us on the win.
“As business owners you rarely get a pat on the back. It is your responsibility to do that for your team and boost their morale.
“To win an award like this feels like our pat on the back from the industry. It really boosts your confidence and is confirmation that you are doing something right.”
Gibbon added the process also provided valuable feedback: “It really gives you a chance to look at your business from the outside, see what you are doing right and maybe what you could do better.”
