RedCat Independent Pubs’ Post

Exciting news from the heart of our business: Interim Results are in, and they're cause for celebration! 🎉 In a decisive triumph, we've charted a tremendous +7.3% surge in like-for-like sales - a clear outperformance in the market. The cherry on top? A stellar 22% boost in pub operating profit. These figures reflect the vibrancy and commitment resonating within our pub walls, and the exceptional efforts of our teams. Their dedication to crafting those extraordinary pub moments doesn't go unnoticed. As we raise a glass to these achievements, we turn an enthusiastic gaze to the horizon and the summer months. With adrenaline-pumping sporting action on the calendar, our newly refurbished pub gardens poised to welcome the sunshine, and our beloved culinary offerings, we're well-equipped to make this season a remarkable one. Justin Platt, our CEO, embodies the optimism that fuels Marston's journey, highlighting the undoubted opportunities that the UK Pub Market holds. It's with our prime pub portfolio and our guest-centric philosophy that we'll not only seize these chances but also deliver continuous, robust returns for our shareholders. Dive into the full details of our interim triumphs and forward strategies - simply follow the link for the complete statement. Here's to a future paved with success! 🍻 #WherePeopleMakePubs #PubsToBeProudOf

Personal Post Incoming... (but don’t worry, back to business tomorrow!) This week my partner had a great win and I can't help but share a proud moment- his pub just earned top place in its region for YOY sales growth over the Christmas period. 🎄 This was his first Christmas at the pub, so it was crucial to get it right. He’s worked incredibly hard to turn things around, regain the trust of the local customer base, and bring back the buzz to this village staple. I see his brain constantly on overdrive, the time and care he puts into making the pub a success, and the passion he has for his team and their success. This recognition is SO well-deserved. Hospitality, as we all know, can be a tough gig, and it often comes with its fair share of sacrifices. (Yes, he worked Christmas Day!) Seeing him and his team recognised by the company feels pretty special. It truly makes a difference and just reiterates the importance of valuing your people. I’ve witnessed first-hand the impact it has, and if anything, it only makes him want to go back and smash it even more. Proud of you, Adrian Ewing I promise, that’s enough personal stuff for today, back to business tomorrow. But hey, I figured LinkedIn’s the best place to celebrate a win like this! #Recognition #HardWorkPaysOff #HospitalitySuccess

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐮𝐛 𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫’𝐬 𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐝𝐚𝐩𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐚 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐟𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐭𝐡. Cheers to that! 🍻 🍕 • Resilience & Growth: Despite post-pandemic challenges, UK pubs show resilience with a 2.9% YoY sales growth in managed groups. ⚡ • Key Challenges: Streamlining through site and workforce reductions. 💼 Rising costs and economic pressure driving mergers and acquisitions. 🤝 • Shifting Pub Models: Wet-led (drinks) vs. dry-led (food) pubs evolving to meet consumer demands. 🍷🍴 Focus on premium experiences and diverse, upscale offerings. 🌟 • Legislative Adaptations: Pubs code changes spurring flexible agreements (e.g., turnover share models). 🤝🏽 Stronger partnerships between pubcos and publicans. • Technology & Training: Tech innovations for inventory, sales, and customer engagement. 📱 Enhanced training for dynamic customer service. 🎓 • Future Outlook: Cautious optimism amidst utility costs, food inflation, and labour shortages. 🌈 Continued innovation in products and services to thrive in evolving markets. 🚀 Source: https://lnkd.in/eJcdqaub

The transformation of Winn-Dixie into ALDI USA is more than just a change in signage—it’s a strategic move with significant implications for employees, customers, and the broader community. According to Bill Wilson, Supermarket News, the recent closure of the Winn-Dixie store in Lakeland, FL, which resulted in the layoff of 48 workers, marks the beginning of this transition. Aldi plans to open at the site by early 2025, offering former Winn-Dixie employees opportunities to reapply for jobs. Aldi’s acquisition of 400 Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket locations demonstrates its commitment to growth and sustainability. CEO Jason Hart emphasizes a seamless and positive transition, highlighting Aldi’s expertise in store openings and remodels. This strategic approach ensures minimal disruption while maximizing benefits: • Employment Continuity: By encouraging former Winn-Dixie employees to reapply, Aldi aims to retain local talent and reduce unemployment. • Community Stability: Maintaining a familiar shopping location helps preserve customer loyalty and supports the local economy. • Sustainable Growth: As Aldi expands, it incorporates environmentally friendly practices, contributing to its broader sustainability goals. As Aldi navigates this transition, it sets an example of how thoughtful strategy can foster positive outcomes for all stakeholders. https://lnkd.in/gzGyyfE3 #HalifaxWest #WinTogether #capitaladvisory #MandA #restructuring #operatingadvisory #RetailStrategy #CommunityImpact #SustainableGrowth #EmployeeRetention #Aldi #WinnDixie

Valiant Pub Company hires Andy Parker as MD of operations: Valiant Pub Company, which was founded by Hawthorn Leisure co-founders Gerry Carroll and Mark McGinty at the start of 2021, has hired Andy Parker as its new managing director of operations. Parker was previously central operations director at Admiral, and spent more than seven years at Hawthorn, including two years as its director of leased and tenanted operations. The 71-strong Valiant, which is backed by Njord Partners, said: “Andy will play a pivotal role in shaping and driving the company’s strategic vision as it continues to expand its portfolio of pubs across the UK. Andy will oversee the operational strategy and delivery across the business, ensuring that Valiant continues to thrive as a leader in the pub sector.” McGinty said: “Andy is a proven leader with exceptional operational expertise and a deep understanding of the pub industry. Having worked with him at Hawthorn Leisure, I’m confident in his ability to drive performance, enhance customer experiences, and support the growth of our business. His appointment is a testament to Valiant’s commitment to attracting the very best talent as we continue to build a market-leading pub company.” Parker said: “Having previously worked with Gerry and Mark, I know the strength of their vision and commitment to the pub sector. With the support of Njord Partners and the talented team at Valiant, I look forward to delivering exceptional experiences for our customers and driving the continued success of the business.” Last month, Valiant secured a £12m loan facility with Metro Bank to support its expansion plans.

Valiant Pub Company hires Andrew Parker as MD of operations: Valiant Pub Company, which was founded by Hawthorn Leisure co-founders Gerry Carroll and Mark McGinty at the start of 2021, has hired Andy Parker as its new managing director of operations. Parker was previously central operations director at Admiral, and spent more than seven years at Hawthorn, including two years as its director of leased and tenanted operations. The 71-strong Valiant, which is backed by Njord Partners, said: “Andy will play a pivotal role in shaping and driving the company’s strategic vision as it continues to expand its portfolio of pubs across the UK. Andy will oversee the operational strategy and delivery across the business, ensuring that Valiant continues to thrive as a leader in the pub sector.” McGinty said: “Andy is a proven leader with exceptional operational expertise and a deep understanding of the pub industry. Having worked with him at Hawthorn Leisure, I’m confident in his ability to drive performance, enhance customer experiences, and support the growth of our business. His appointment is a testament to Valiant’s commitment to attracting the very best talent as we continue to build a market-leading pub company.” Parker said: “Having previously worked with Gerry and Mark, I know the strength of their vision and commitment to the pub sector. With the support of Njord Partners and the talented team at Valiant, I look forward to delivering exceptional experiences for our customers and driving the continued success of the business.” Last month, Valiant secured a £12m loan facility with Metro Bank to support its expansion plans. Luke Carroll

The premium pub operator and brewer Butcombe Group is doubling down on its experience-led offering, CEO Jonathan Lawson tells MCA https://lnkd.in/dvugV9Eh

⏰ This morning, my iPhone’s “On This Day” served up this tasty throwback from 2017—a snapshot of us prepping for Greene King's Chef & Brewer spring menu shoot. It got me thinking about the long-lasting relationships we’ve built at IF. over the years. While many brands work with agencies on a project-by-project basis, that’s never really been our style. We’ve always aimed to build long-term partnerships because when we’re in it for the long haul, we’re not just delivering the brief—we’re thinking ahead, anticipating what’s next. Why does that matter? 👉 We become part of your team, getting to know your business inside out—goals, challenges, and what sets you apart. 👉 We craft long-term strategies by understanding your brand deeply, so we’re proactive, not reactive. 👉 And because we’re genuinely invested in your success, we offer real value with solutions designed for sustainable growth. We’re proud to have built years-long partnerships with brands like Greene King, Freshpet, and Knowsley Safari to name a few—brands that have trusted us to grow with them. And as we kick off 2025, I can't wait to see the relationships we'll build this year! 🙌 Christian Jo Laura

The last few weeks I have been reflecting on our last financial year as it came to a close. I wanted to share a few highlights (and some not-so-highlights) to show how not everything may be as it looks from the outside. ✅ Lee (+ team) smashed our revenue targets. ❌ Our profits decreased thanks to increased supplier costs whilst we continue to keep our prices as low as possible for clients. ✅ We welcomed 13 new clients last year. ❌ We lost a few of our valued clients due to reduced budgets. ✅ We had 2 new team members join and 0 team members left. ❌ Recruitment for a specific role was so difficult (with no positive result) so left us shuffling things around internally and adjusting our processes to compensate for not filling the position. Sometimes being a business owner is all fun and rainbows, but most often it comes with a lot hurdles. Next time you see someone celebrating a win on here, remember it might've taken 10 falls before that win so please never ever feel like you're falling behind if you're not having wins every day 💪

Honest Burgers Ltd, the Active Partners-backed business, has hired Kevin Styles as its new chief executive. Propel revealed last month that Styles had stepped down from the same role with the Jamie Oliver Group, which he joined in July 2022, having previously been managing director at Vue International. 👉 For the full version of this story and to read it first sign up to the Propel email newsletter for free: https://lnkd.in/eyy_THzR