Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Birmingham Post
Birmingham Post
Business
Andrew Arthur

St Austell Brewery says government help 'vital' for hospitality recovery

The boss of St Austell Brewery has called on the government to support the hospitality industry as it faces “significant headwinds”. Chief executive Kevin Georgel said rising inflationary pressures, including “unprecedented” energy costs were causing “real challenges” for the Cornish company.

Mr Georgel said: “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. Our priority remains investing in our people and our properties.”

It comes as St Austell Brewery added to its estate of pubs and hotels with its third acquisition in recent months. The firm has agreed a deal for the Blue Ball Inn in Lynmouth, Devon, for an undisclosed sum.

The Blue Ball Inn in Lynmouth, Devon (St Austell Brewery)

The purchase of the historic coaching inn, which dates back to the 13th century, comes after the company snapped up The Wellington Hotel in Boscastle and the Beaver Inn in Appledore, its first transactions in more than two years.

Mr Georgel previously said in March the family-run independent business was looking to expand its portfolio to more than 200 venues.

Following its latest deal, he added: “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.”

Read next:

Loungers on track to open record number of bars as sales grow

Wetherspoon has 'momentous challenge' to get pub drinkers back as firm makes £30.4m loss

Pipers Crisps toasts lockdown lift as sales surpass pre-pandemic levels

Bart Ingredients profits down after move to new Bristol factory

Like this story? Why not sign up to get the latest South West business news straight to your inbox.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.