Social enterprise pub group opens fifth unit after investment package
WHAT’S claimed to be Scotland’s first social enterprise pub group, Harry’s, has added another venue to its portfolio after securing a six-figure investment from Tennent’s.
Harry’s, part of the Beer for Good Community Interest Company, has opened two bars and two cafés in Edinburgh in the last two years with the aim of supporting young people by offering training in the hospitality industry.
The investment from Tennent’s allowed Harry’s to buy and refurbish the former Southside Social on Edinburgh’s Buccleuch Street, reopening the unit as Harry’s Southside.
The move comes as the social enterprise pub group aims to grow profits and reinvest more into the business as it looks to further expand its programme of support to more 18 to 25 year olds.
Since being founded in August 2015, Harry’s has delivered over 130 vocational qualifications to its trainees.
Chris Thewlis, director of the Beer for Good Community Interest Company, said: “We are delighted to enter into this ground-breaking partnership.
“This is a unique investment deal and it is fantastic that Tennent’s recognises the power of good that social enterprise can do. Our agreement demonstrates that the private business sector can work with the social enterprise sector to deliver a project of this magnitude.
“We look forward to strengthening that bond in the near future as we work together to expand our social enterprise business and give further opportunities to young people.”
Trade investment manager for Tennent’s, Martin Cairns, said Harry’s is a “satisfying example” of the financial support provided by the brewer.
