Fishermann Pub Group takes on fourth site
Fishermann Pub Group has taken a five-year lease on its fourth pub.
Hertfordshire-based pub operator Fishermann Pub Group has taken a five-year lease on its fourth pub in the county, saying it has the capacity to double the company’s size to eight sites.
The Bull at Whitwell is Fishermann’s third venture with Star Pubs. The only pub in the village, it is currently closed for a joint £260,000 refurbishment to upgrade it to suit the characteristics of the Fishemann estate.
"For all the doom and gloom in the mainstream media, we’re confident about expanding," says Fishermann Pub Group co-founder Pete Mann (pictured). "In our experience, if pub goers are getting quality and value, they still come out and don’t mind paying more for something good.
"You’ve got to move with the times though and keep changing your offer; you can’t afford to stand still. It makes investment from pub companies and licensees vital – you have to spend to get the returns."
Revitalising the pub
The overhaul will renovate the outside of the grade II-listed pub – which dates back to the 1600s – repainting it and adding new lighting and signage. The garden will have a makeover too, with new planting, furniture for 92 customers and six-seater pods.
In terms of layout, the pub will have a traditional bar, a snug seating 12, a lounge with an open fire and a games area fitted out with a new darts throw and an AV system showing Sky Sports and TNT Sports. Other improvements include energy efficiency measures to boost The Bull’s sustainability and a kitchen refit to enable the pub to increase sales of its food.
"Investment is key to keeping pubs open and thriving, especially in a competitive market when consumer spending is under pressure," says Matt Cornwell, investment manager for Star Pubs. "Star’s pubs are predominantly premium locals, so Fishermann’s business model is a great fit. They’re at the forefront of the premium local sector; they deliver to a high standard and are always ahead of the game in terms of their offer. Having turned round other struggling pubs in Hertfordshire, Fishermann have a proven track record. The Bull is getting the full works. It will be a fantastic local for villagers providing great food and drink on their doorsteps without the need to travel."
Fishermann’s other pubs are The Engineer in Harpenden, The Rose & Crown at Welwyn and The Beehive at St Albans.
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