Pub teams across South West celebrated at our awards ceremony
T he inspirational achievements of pubs and people within St Austell Brewery’s managed estate were celebrated on Tuesday evening (January 23) at our annual Managed Pub Awards.
Pub and operational support teams gathered at the Oystercatcher in Polzeath for an evening of celebration and reflection on what had been an incredible 2023 performance across our 44 managed houses.
Operations Director for St Austell Brewery, Gareth James, said:
“There were so many worthy winners at this year’s pub awards. I’m so proud of all our general managers and their teams for everything they achieved together in 2023. Their passion for hospitality, and commitment to providing the very best experiences for our guests all year round, has been a real privilege to share in.
“It’s important for us to take opportunities like this to recognise the hard work our teams put in and celebrate their strong results, as well as honouring individuals who have gone above and beyond for their teams and our guests. Congratulations everyone.”
From the scorecard, the Mill on the Exe won both the People Pub of the Year and Compliance Pub of the Year awards, while the Fort Inn in Newquay won Sales Pub of the Year. The Masons Arms in Branscombe was crowned Guest Pub of the Year, while the Lifeboat Inn in St Ives was our Profit Pub of the Year.
There were also a series of 'Player's Player' awards given, for general managers who have gone above and beyond, and decided by in-area voting.
These went to Lee Taylor at Havener’s, Matthew McKinley-Booton at the Royal Castle, Lisa Barry at the Rose & Crown in Morne Ritter's area, and Benn Perkins at the Central.
Gareth Head, general manager at the Crabshell in Kingsbridge also received a Best Newcomer award. The guest experience team received the Support Team Recognition award.
Finally, the Great Western Hotel was voted Most Improved, and the Harbour Light in Paignton was overall Pub of the Year.