Various Eateries Acquires Four Premium Pubs for £11.5 Million and Rebrands as Coppa Collective
Restaurant group Various Eateries, supported by British entrepreneur Hugh Osmond, has made a significant move in the hospitality sector by acquiring four premium pubs for a total of £11.5 million. The London-listed company purchased the properties from Grosvenor Pubs and Inns, with locations in the Cotswolds, Berkshire, Surrey, and Hampshire.
Launch of the Linwood Collection Brand
The acquisition marks the establishment of a new brand, the Linwood Collection, which will focus on premium pubs with rooms. These venues generated over £10 million in revenue last year, highlighting their strong performance in a challenging market. Various Eateries cited the appeal of such pubs, which combine food, drink, and accommodation, as a resilient proposition amid rising business rates and employment costs.
Rebranding to Coppa Collective
In a related announcement, Various Eateries revealed it will rebrand as Coppa Collective to reflect its evolution. This change aligns with the company's strategy to expand its portfolio beyond its current Mediterranean dining chain, Coppa Club, and Italian restaurant brand, Noci. The rebranding aims to unify its offerings under a cohesive identity.
CEO's Perspective on the Acquisition
Chief executive Mark Loughborough commented on the deal, stating, "Premium pubs with rooms combine food and drink with accommodation and a broader, destination-led appeal. Done well, that mix can deliver resilience and attractive economics, and we believe these sites have the quality to do exactly that." He emphasized the potential for these properties to thrive despite industry headwinds.
Details of the Acquired Pubs
The four pubs included in the transaction are:
- Wild Thyme & Honey, located near Cirencester in the Cotswolds
- The Hare & Hounds in Berkshire
- The Stag on the River in Surrey
- The Wellington Arms in Hampshire
The deal also features an option for a fifth location, The Queen's Head in Surrey, with completion expected later this month.
Background on Various Eateries and Hugh Osmond
Various Eateries was founded by Hugh Osmond, former chief of Pizza Express, and currently manages 20 venues, including restaurants, club houses, and hotels. Osmond is also known for founding Punch Taverns, a pub and bar business that was part of the FTSE small cap index before its £403 million private equity acquisition in 2016. This latest acquisition underscores the company's commitment to growth and innovation in the competitive hospitality landscape.
