Pub People expands wet-led investments as acquisitions resume
Pub People is stepping up wet-led investment as it restarts acquisitions. Managing director Andy Crawford says the group had a year, supported by capital projects across drinks and lodging. Investments of £200,000 to £300,000 have shown longevity, and the £1.5 million Dukeries Lodge redevelopment continues to deliver growth two years on. Sheffield’s third Six Barrel Drafthouse has opened, focusing on cask and craft beer with 130 local brewers. If the right locations arise, Drafthouse sites could be explored, particularly in city centres with student demand. The group is converting underused kitchens into trading space, typically £50,000 to £200,000 per project, and assessing darts and sports areas at around 15 pubs, with in-house design to keep costs down. Pub People is back in the acquisition market, with initial talks of buying a community pub in the East Midlands, though most spending remains on existing sites. The sector is competitive, with disposals down and demand for quality freeholds. Accommodation will stay part of the plan, with 20 bedrooms to be invested next year. Dukeries Lodge shows potential, with occupancy up from under 50% to over 80%, room rates up from about £70 to £120; weekly sales reach £35,000–£40,000 and EBITDA above £300,000. The group prioritises energy management using AI to cut consumption, with savings that could reach hundreds of thousands of pounds. Next schemes include Black Swan at Edwinstowe and Three Legged Stool at Worksop, with capital deployment targeted to deliver solid returns and a fair price. Source: The Morning Advertiser
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