New pub group opens first site (From Chelmsford Weekly News)

New pub group opens first site

7:30am Saturday 9th March 2013 in News

A BAR has been taken over and reopened as the first from a new pub group backed by an industry veteran.

The Admiral J McHardy has opened after taking over the building formerly known as the Alma.

Fireside Pubs & Restaurants has taken control of the gastro-pub in Arbour Lane, Springfield, after receiving backing from former chairman of Laurel Pub Company and Mitchells & Butlers John Lovering.

The firm led by Leo Murphy and Alan Moore is looking to open around 20 similar venues in the south of England over the next five years.

Mr Murphy said: “It has long been part of our strategic plan to develop our own pub group and we believe market conditions are now conducive to so doing.

“We are delighted to welcome John and Nick as backers and are already seeing the benefits of their involvement.

“The prospects for the first site are encouraging and we are confident our model will deliver a premium experience combining a quality food offering and value for money, and that each Fireside Pub & Restaurant will be at the heart of the local community.”

Mr Lovering, who invested in the company under his investment group, Echelon, said he was delighted to put the money into the new firm.

He said: “They are a well-respected and high quality team with a very exciting model, which matches our understanding of customers’ requirements.

“We look forward to continuing to support the team as they develop the Fireside Pubs & Restaurants brand and think this first unit represents an excellent springboard from which to establish the concept and develop the group.”