Located on the town’s high street, the currently closed Slug & Lettuce, formerly part of Stonegate’s portfolio, is scheduled to reopen in time for Christmas following a planned refurbishment.
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Punch said the investment would improve the guest experience, boasting a new beer range, live sport and entertainment offering.
Commenting on the acquisition, Punch operations manager Andy Wilkinson said: “The Slug & Lettuce is a popular pub in the town centre and attracts both loyal regulars and passing guests. We believe it has a lot of potential and we’re delighted to get our hands on the keys.”
Superb location
Punch acquisitions manager Neil Comley added: “We’re thrilled to secure the Slug & Lettuce; it’s a fantastic pub in a superb location for us.
“As always, it remains our priority to ensure the pub continues to thrive at the heart of the community and we’re looking forward to getting in the door.”
The Burton-upon-Trent-based pubco said it would continue to consider further “high-quality” acquisitions, including packages and single-site opportunities that align with its growth plans.
As well as taking on the Slug & Lettuce, Punch has injected half-a-million-pounds into the Meynell Ingram Arms in Hoars Cross, East Staffordshire.
The country pub closed at the end of September for renovations, which have now been completed, with new management partners Simon and Karen Terry ready to take the reigns.
Number one destination
Simon said: “This is a fantastic pub with incredible potential and we’re so pleased to be here. I am looking forward to meeting all our guests and delighting them with our generous pub favourites, Sunday lunch, local cask ales and carefully chosen wines.”
The refurb included an exterior refresh with new signage, flowers and shrubbery, all of which were sourced locally and planted by the community.
Inside, the bar has been refurbished, with the chairs, stools, tables and décor all refreshed or replaced.
Punch operations manager James Killick added: “We’re delighted with the results of the refresh.
“Our ambition is to return the Meynell Ingram Arms to its former glory and position it as the number one destination in Staffordshire once again.”
He continued: “Everything will begin and end with our food and drinks menu, it’s what we want the pub to be known for. We have great beer, fine food and polished service that will bring guests back time and time again.”
