Chipping away at new venture

Pubs group adds takeaway after a significant investment

A fledging pub group has expanded the offer at its Ayrshire pub to include a fish and chip shop.
The Kings Arms in the village of Fenwick is the first pub to be taken on by the Honest Pub Co. A Star Pubs & Bars lease, the venue was refurbished after a £40,000 investment from the pubco earlier this year.

The new fish and chip shop was added as part of a secondary, £10,000 round of investment from the Honest Pub Co. As well as selling takeaway food, the shop will also stock a range of grocery products, such as bread and milk.
The fish and chip shop is just the latest addition since the Honest Pub Co took on the pub’s lease in November.
The company has also overhauled the food menu and expanded the drinks offer to include coffee, cocktails and spirits, as well as introducing events like pub quizzes and steak nights.
Honest Pub Co director Ian McAnally, who runs the company with business partner Craig McLaughlin, said the reaction from local residents has been encouraging. “We’ve had fantastic support from residents, one of whom even donated a beautiful marble bar top for the pub,” he said.
Star Pubs & Bars managing director, Lawson Mountstevens, said: “It’s great to have been able to support the Honest Pub Co in their transformation of the Kings Arms.
“This latest development adds another valuable income stream to their business.
“They have done a brilliant job, proving again the enduring popularity of a well-run and invested great traditional pub.”
With the redevelopment of the Kings Arms complete, the Honest Pub Co is now looking to open further venues around Scotland.