UK: East Anglia-based hospitality brand Chestnut has acquired The Lawns in Holt.
The addition of The Lawns forms part of the company’s three-year plan to expand its portfolio. In the first year, Chestnut acquired four new inns, employed 80 new team members, and recorded year on year revenue growth of 150 per cent.
Other new sites within Chestnut’s profile include The Carpenters Arms near Cambridge, and The Feathers and The Maltings in North Norfolk.
Philip Turner, founder and chief executive, said: “We are delighted to welcome The Lawns in Holt to our collection, a destination that’s a key part of the tourism scene in Norfolk. Following on from the recent acquisition of The Feathers this new pub will add extra rooms to our portfolio in the town. We have plans to renovate both pubs in the coming months and look forward to playing our part in the continued success and growth of staycations in North Norfolk.
“Going into 2022 with another new acquisition has only been possible as a result of us having a clear strategy for growth, focusing relentlessly on investment in our sites and, most importantly, bringing in new talent to the team to build on the great people we have in the organisation,” he added.
To support its growth plans, Chestnut has appointed two senior managers. Tom Salt has joined as head of food, having held chief positions at Zafferano and The River Café. Charley O’Toole, who spent four years as head of people at Bill’s, will hold the same title for Chestnut.
Turner continued: “The past two years have been incredibly tough for the industry, particularly for our people. In a sector which is facing real recruitment challenges – retaining and attracting the best people has never been more important.”
The latest project for the group is the refurbishment of The Globe, located in Wells, Norfolk. It is planned to re-open next month.
