The decline of the traditional pub is a growing concern for many operators in the industry, after The British Beer and Pub Association revealed last year that up to 29 pubs close every week in the UK. The BBPA attributed this decline to high beer tax, competition from supermarkets selling cheaper alcohol, and an ever-changing demographic.
The Crown in Hawk Green is just one example of how a pub has successfully adapted to survive and thrive in these circumstances. Operators, Simon and Claire Hood, took a new direction with their business, venturing down the gastro-pub route to reinstate great quality food and drink at the heart of the trade.
The Hoods teamed up with Robinsons Brewery for a refurb exquisite enough to put the Extreme Makeovers team to shame! The Crown now has a rustic, contemporary interior, with unique furnishings and a neutral palette complimenting the exposed beams and natural character of the building. The pub re-opened to the public in November last year, attracting a very special visitor- none other than the Robinson’s Brewery shire horse. The Crown’s menu has also undergone a gastro makeover, revamping all the British classics; traditional roast dinners with all the trimmings, succulent sirloin steaks and classic fish n’ chips to name just a few.
Johnson Reed helped the Hoods finance all of their catering equipment and facilities; everything from the cooking appliances to the wash-up area. Although kitchen equipment is an integral part of any catering business, it’s not necessarily one you’d want to part with a lump sum of hard earned cash for! When fitting out premises, many businesses settle for ‘satisfactory’ equipment they can afford with their current budget. Leasing allows you to purchase your desired equipment with greater longevity, and spread the cost over a number of years.
Simon said of the deal:
It’s so important for a business moving forward to have access to a company like Johnson Reed that can support us and help us get the equipment we need- that’s why we’ve used them for two projects! I would recommend them endlessly. Johnson Reed are easy to deal with and incredibly helpful. There’s always someone at the end of the phone and team always get back to me to turn the deal around quickly.
Simon Hood
You can see more images of The Crown’s revamp here.
