As Cornwall-based St Austell Brewery announced the acquisition of a new pub – the Blue Ball Inn in Lynmouth Devon, chief executive Kevin Georgel said it was “vital that the government continue to listen and invest in the recovery of our sector.”
The company owns and operates 178 pubs across the South West. Traditional coaching inn, the Blue Ball Inn, follows the addition of the Wellington in Boscastle, Cornwall, and the Beaver Inn in Appledore, Devon, to their managed portfolio in recent months.
Kevin Georgel said: “We are pleased to announce that the Blue Ball Inn in Lynmouth has joined our managed pub estate. This latest acquisition continues to drive forward our plan to strengthen and grow our pub estate in Cornwall, and across the wider South West, in the years to come.
“Like so many industries, hospitality is facing significant headwinds at the moment. Rising inflationary pressures – including the unprecedented cost of energy – are causing real challenges for us. As we continue to navigate these obstacles, it’s vital that the government continue to listen and invest in the recovery of our sector. That being said we are a business with a clear vision for the future and, while we may face short-term challenges, our long-term strategy has not changed.
“Our priority remains investing in our people and our properties. We’re committed to creating year-round employment opportunities in rural areas like Lynmouth and protecting Great British pubs, which are really important assets to communities across our operating region.”
A classic coaching inn that dates back to the 13th century, the Blue Ball Inn is located in the village of Countisbury, at an elevation of 900 feet above sea level. It’s a dog-friendly destination with breathtaking views, a bar, and overnight accommodation.
