Prince of Peckham landlord launches pub group

Clement Ogbonnaya, the landlord of south east London's acclaimed Prince of Peckham pub, has launched The Village People, his new pub group.

With a goal of opening five new locations over five years, Ogbonnaya intends to acquire old and disused pubs, and regenerate them into stylish, welcoming and inclusive multi-functional community hubs. 

A second location, Queen of the South in Tulse Hill, has already been purchased, which will open towards the end of the year to coincide with the busy World Cup period. It will feature spaces for co-working and community meet-ups, live events, a games room and a karaoke booth. 

Raised in Peckham, Ogbonnaya opened his first pub as a ‘solution to gentrification’, aiming to create a space for all to come and enjoy quality food and drink.

Consequently, a key focus of The Village People group will be to educate its staff, customers and the wider community on local issues and challenges, as well as highlighting ways to make a positive difference.

“I’ve worked in hospitality for 13 years and I’ve seen how the industry has changed throughout this time, both for the better and for the worse," says Ogbonnaya. "While people are searching for a sense of belonging and community now more than ever, many British boozers have gone from being area hubs to laying empty and derelict, which is a tragedy. I think there’s a massive opportunity to rejuvenate the pub scene and bring them back to the heart of the community. 

“Through Prince of Peckham and my new pub, Queen of the South, The Village People pub group will focus on hospitality over service. I’m excited to bring this ethos to my second pub in Tulse Hill - it’s an area with lots of promise and we’ve had a warm welcome from the locals we’ve already connected with.” 

During November 2020's lockdown, editor Tristan O'Hana reviewed Prince of Peckham's impromtu takeaway offer.

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