| The Spirit Group is a young, entrepreneurial pub company which since its formation in August 1999 has set out to bring fresh thinking to the UK licensed retailing sector. | |||||
HIDDEN | |||||
homepage | |||||
| homepage .... click for more | |||||
privacy policy | |||||
| privacy policy We may obtain information about you when you use this web site (you will know when we are collecting information intended to be kept for future use because the web page will contain a link to the privacy statement.) Our policy in relation to this information is set out below. Except as set out below and to the extent we are required or permitted by law, personal information provided by you to us will be used only for the purposes of dealing with and (and storing) your feedback and .... click for more | |||||
terms and conditions | |||||
| terms and conditions This website is owned and operated by the Spirit Group Limited, (registered in England number 5266811) whose registered office is at 107 Station Street, Burton On Trent, Staffordshire, DE14 1BT (“us” and “we”). Your use of this website is subject to the following terms and conditions. If you do not agree to these conditions, you must not use this website. All communications regarding this website should be directed to press.office@thespiritgroup.com DISCLAIMER Whilst we have taken every .... click for more | |||||
FAQ | |||||
| FAQ Coming Soon .... click for more | |||||
Site search help | |||||
| Site search help Welcome to the Spirit Group website search help page, designed to help you find the information you need quickly and easily. Use the ‘SEARCH FOR:’ box located at the top of every page. Just select the type of search you require from the drop down list, type the query into the second box and hit GO! Your search results will be ordered in exact, or closest match order. Search Types: There are several types of search that you can use to help you. They are: Search for pubs by .... click for more | |||||
customer | |||||
| customer info Spirit Group is the managed division of Punch Taverns, the UK's leading pub company with over 8,400 pubs nationwide. Our 800 high quality pubs across the UK range from high quality dining at Chef & Brewers to our great value Two For One food led outlets. We also operate Wacky Warehouse, the UK's leading indoor playbarn for children and over 80 traditional, authentic London pubs. We aim to be the UK's Best Managed Pub Business where "every customer recommends us to a friend" and we are .... click for more | |||||
find a pub | |||||
360 pub tour | |||||
| 360 pub tour There are over 800 pubs, bars and restaurants within Spirit Group including market leading concepts. We have selected a few of our concept pubs for you to view as a 360 degree tour. The pubs we have chosen are typical of the concept and there really is something for everyone. Whether it's fine wine and food, relaxing with a well-deserved pint or enjoying fun and food for all the family - our pubs and restaurants are the perfect place for you. Simply click on the links below to view the tour. .... click for more | |||||
mystery shopper | |||||
| mystery shopper Would you like to be a mystery shopper for the Spirit Group? Tell us what you think about the quality of our food and drink, the standard of service, the atmosphere and how well the pub was presented. Do you think our managers and pub teams are friendly and helpful? Whatever your views, we want to know about your experience so we can keep improving our pubs. To sign up please call Retail Eyes on 01908 328 000. .... click for more | |||||
contact us | |||||
corporate | |||||
| corporate Spirit Group is the managed division of Punch Taverns, the UK's leading pub company with over 8,400 pubs nationwide. Our 800 high quality pubs across the UK range from high quality dining at Chef & Brewers to our great value Two For One food led outlets. We also operate Wacky Warehouse, the UK's leading indoor playbarn for children and over 80 traditional, authentic London pubs. We're passionate about our pubs and are dedicated to making sure our customers leave wanting to return. This .... click for more | |||||
our business | |||||
| our business Our Pub Estate Our high quality managed pub estate is focused on four core segments - Value Food, Quality Food, City and Locals. Value Food Britain's Number One choice for fantastic value everyday meals. Over 200 warm and friendly food pubs serving good quality, good value meals. This segment includes Two For One which serves two great meals for the price of one, all day, every day. Quality Food Offering exceptional, market leading pub food with service to match in a cosy and relaxed .... click for more | |||||
our history | |||||
| our history September 2006 – Punch acquires 82 Mill House Inns - high quality managed pubs to add to the Spirit operation. June 2006 – Sale of 290 managed pubs to Orchid Pubs included concepts of Q's, Mr Q's, Country Carvery and Bar Room Bar. January 2006 - Punch Taverns plc acquires Spirit Group. Andrew Knight becomes Managing Director of Spirit Group. September 2005 - Spirit Group sells 178 pubs to TCG Acquisitions Ltd (Tattershall Castle Group) November 2004 - Spirit Group sells 364 pubs to .... click for more | |||||
our people | |||||
| Andrew Knight, Managing Director Andrew Knight, 40, was appointed Managing Director of Spirit Group following its acquisition by Punch in January 2006. The appointment is the latest move in a long career in the industry. Andrew started his career with Courage Ltd before joining Allied Breweries as a graduate trainee and then becoming Retail Area Manager with Joshua Tetley & Son. After joining Allied Domecq Retailing as Retail Marketing Executive the business was sold to Punch Group. Andrew became Commercial Director, .... click for more | |||||
| Barry Clemo, Marketing Director Barry joined Spirit in May 2008 and has over 20 years experience in the leisure, gaming and retail sectors spanning multi-site operational management, marketing, NPD, strategic planning, brand development, advertising, CRM and online development. Barry has held a number of roles including the position of Marketing Director for Ladbrokes PLC and Director of Marketing for Gala Group PLC. He started his career with Bass Leisure in 1984. Barry returns to Spirit after 3 years having previously held .... click for more | |||||
| David Shipton, Central Support Director David joined Allied Domecq as a graduate in 1986 and held numerous positions such as Marketing Planning Manager, Investment Manager and Pricing Manager prior to the acquisition of Allied by Punch in 1999. Prior to the acquisition of Spirit, David was responsible for Pricing and Supply Chain working on both the acquisitions of Tom Cobleigh and Scottish and Newcastle Retail as well as the disposals to Regent, S&NPE and Tattershall Castle Group. Within Spirit, he is responsible for .... click for more | |||||
| Jonathan Paveley, Group Commercial Director Jonathan Paveley, was appointed Commercial Director with effect from May 2004. He joined the Group from Greene King, where he was Strategy Director, responsible for strategic development and purchasing, during which time he managed a series of major internal and acquisition initiatives. Prior to Greene King he was a member of the MBO team at the Gaymer Group and an investment banker. He joined the Punch Taverns Board in September 2004. .... click for more | |||||
| Karen Caddick, Group Director of Human Resources Karen Caddick, joined Punch in October 2006 and leads the HR function across the Punch Group. Karen started her career with Royal & Sun Alliance in 1993 and performed several HR roles including Head of HR for More Th>n. Karen then moved to Barclays as Head of Employee Relations & HR Policy. She also led the HR functions at Channel Five Broadcasting and The Financial Times prior to joining Punch. Karen is a Graduate of the Chartered Insurance Institute and a Fellow Graduate of .... click for more | |||||
| Nigel Turpin, Group Corporate Affairs Director Nigel joined Spirit as Planning Director following the acquisition of Scottish and Newcastle retailing in November 2003. He was appointed to the S&N board in January 1997, before which he was Director of Operations Planning for the Chef and Brewer Group within Grand Metropolitan. Since the acquisition of Spirit by Punch Taverns, Nigel has been fully involved in business planning within Spirit, including setting up and supporting transitional services. Nigel is a Director of the Burton .... click for more | |||||
| Richard Carter, Retail Director Richard joined Spirit in July 2007 having spent nearly 20 years in retail working for Asda, Office World / Staples, Dixons Stores Group (DSGi) and Virgin. Richard has held a number of roles including 2 years as a Distribution and Operations Director with Virgin and 3 years as a Retail Director with Currys, the largest part of the Dixons Stores Group as well as roles in retail operations, marketing and buying. Within Spirit Richard is responsible for retail operations via 5 divisions (Locals, .... click for more | |||||
| Steve Stone, Group Director of Finance Steve began his career in the audit department of KPMG before moving to Courtaulds textiles for 2 years and then moving back into the financial sector to join Ernst and Young as Corporate Finance Senior Manager. He then moved to Punch Taverns as Finance Project Manager before joining Spirit in October 2006 as Group Director of Finance. His responsibilities include the management reporting and accounting records of the Spirit Group. He is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants. .... click for more | |||||
| our senior team .... click for more | |||||
our awards | |||||
| our awards 2008 - Beautiful Beer Awards
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our concepts | |||||
| Local Pubs - Local pubs Pop in for your favourite pub food! Locals Pubs provide a friendly, relaxed and local atmosphere. The team always provide a warm welcome to everyone so you will always feel like a regular. Why not try our famous 8oz Rump Steak or tasty New York Burger with Bacon and Cheese. With our mouth watering menu and unbeatable deals, why bother cooking at home! .... click for more | |||||
| Pubs & Carveries - Pubs & Carveries Whether you fancy a traditional British roast or a tasty pub meal you will be made very welcome within our carveries and pubs. Each individual pub offers a fantastic menu and friendly service. You're guaranteed great value food served by our friendly team whether you choose a carvery pub or a local pub. .... click for more | |||||
| Chef & Brewer - a truly outstanding collection of British pubs Discover the perfect place to relax... Open Fires, cosy corners and of course the warmest of welcomes. There's nothing like the atmosphere of a traditional country pub. We are passionate about the food we create. That's why we only use the finest ingredients in all of our freshly prepared meals. We also have an impressive selection of fine wines and real ales. .... click for more | |||||
| The Outside Inn - Chargrill Restaurant & Pub Enjoy all that's best about the great outdoors, indoors at Outside Inn!. Sit back and relax in the rustic forest village setting while the team prepare a wide variety of sumptuous food and drink for you. Be tempted with the range of party pitchers accompanying their famous skewers and fondue. Outside Inn is a perfect place for a celebration, you're guaranteed a night to remember as Outside Inn has all the right ingredients for a great night out. Of course you'll always be welcome for a quick .... click for more | |||||
| Two For One - All day everyday Enjoy a great welcome, great meals and great value all day, all month, all year. When two adults buy two main meals, the cheaper one comes free. We are the perfect place for any occasion. Great quality food, a great choice from our wide ranging menu, friendly atmosphere and of course unbelievable value. .... click for more | |||||
| Wacky Warehouse - A wacky place to eat 'They all fell asleep on the way home...' Looking for a great place to take the family? Then Wacky Warehouse is just the place for you. Here you can encourage the kids to burn off some energy, leaving you to relax knowing they are having a great time. Wacky Warehouses offer playtime, tot time and exciting birthday parties, with indoor play centres offering an abundance of puzzles and games to suit everyone* Some Wacky Warehouses offer 'Coffee Corner', an area designed specifically .... click for more | |||||
| Family Pubs - Family pubs A great atmosphere for family and friends. Whether it's lunch with friends or an evening meal with all the family, you're guaranteed great value food served by our friendly team. If you're feeling hungry, try one of our 10oz rib eye steaks. Each one is matured for 28 days then grilled to perfection. You can also enjoy our succulent salmon with plum sauce plus a wide range from our healthy children's menu. .... click for more | |||||
| City Pubs - City pubs Enjoy great tasting food and drink in a warm and friendly atmosphere where the wine and conversation flow at your own pace. Each individual pub offers the finest food and the friendliest service. .... click for more | |||||
| City Limits - One venue - unlimited fun For an experience that really is out of this world, visit City Limits - one venue unlimited fun! The restaurant and cocktail bar offers authentic cuisine, classic cocktails and a vibrant party atmosphere to ensure that whatever the occasion you'll enjoy a real feast for your soul. First Base music bar - is a fabulous place to party and have some fun. American pool tables, Sky Sports on the big screen and resident DJs! State Fair Amusements has over 100 of the latest interactive games machines .... click for more | |||||
| Good Night Inns - Local touches and a homely welcome We'll make you feel at home. Book a stay at one of our Good Night Inns and you're sure to get a warm welcome. Enjoy the special touches of home in one of our newly refurbished rooms, where the beds are so comfy it will feel just like your own. Of the growing number of Good Night Inns, our Heritage hotels are that extra bit special with thoughtful furnishings to complement the traditional surroundings. Our friendly service will make sure your stay is relaxing, so feel free to wear your .... click for more | |||||
| Grill House Kitchen - A real charcoal grill experience A Grill House Kitchen offers an extensive menu, with a wide range of freshly prepared real charcoal grilled food served in modern surroundings, complimented by a host of real ales and wines, while still keeping the feel of a local pub. The innovative menu, served from a unique indoor real charcoal grill offers a range of dishes freshly cooked to order, such as BBQ rack of ribs, half chicken, 28 day matured steaks and salmon & monkfish skewers. All with a choice of three tasty grill .... click for more | |||||
our responsibility | |||||
| more information As a major national player, the Spirit Group has a comprehensive approach to Social Responsibility. We recognise that our pubs and the pub industry in general have a key role to play in shaping the fabric of our society and we are committed to responsible retailing. We are members of the BII and the BBPA and work closely with other industry bodies to ensure that we operate as responsibly as possible. We actively promote the role of the pub in British culture and are committed to the future of .... click for more | |||||
useful links | |||||
| useful links APunch Taverns Find a good pub restaurant Wacky Warehouse Good Night Inns - hotels Drink Aware Campaign for Real Ale Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers British Institute of Innkeepers Portman Group The Publican British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) .... click for more | |||||
media | |||||
| media info to follow.... .... click for more | |||||
press releases | |||||
| JUL 08 - GRILLED DELIGHTS AT CORNER HOUSE The Corner House on Centrum Way, Burton on Trent, will open its doors on 8th July following a major £400K refurbishment. As well as being the first innovative Grill House Kitchen in the town, the pub – which was formally called the Bill Brewer - will become the flagship venue for Spirit Group, the managed division of major Burton employer Punch Taverns. There will also be a family fun day at The Corner House on Sunday, 17th August, with entertainment for people of all ages between 12pm and .... click for more | |||||
| JUL 08 - NEW LEASE OF LIFE FOR WHITE HART The White Hart in Market Place, Buckingham, reopened its doors on June 16th following a million-pound refurbishment. The pub has undergone substantial redevelopment to the bar and dining areas and now boasts a new look and fresh décor which is certain to appeal to all visitors. As well as the innovative new interior design, the White Hart also offers a tantalising menu, catering for all tastes and all ages. Guests are able to choose on weekdays from the extensive ‘two selected main meals .... click for more | |||||
| JUL 08 - NEW FIRST-AID TRAINING FOR WACKY WAREHOUSE Wacky Warehouse will soon be offering an even-better service in all outlets with the introduction of paediatric first-aid training for each of its supervisors. The intensive course will cover vital life-saving skills for children and infants, including dealing with youngsters who are choking, injured or suffering from severe allergic reactions, as well as a host of other situations. It means that it will be even safer to visit a Wacky Warehouse – the UK’s award-winning and leading soft-play .... click for more | |||||
| JUN 08 - TABB GETS WACKY FOR BARNARDO’S Coventry City Football Club’s Player of the Year Jay Tabb was one of a number of people supporting Barnardo’s ‘Big Toddle’ in Nuneaton on Tuesday. In conjunction with Wacky Warehouse, the Big Toddle 2008 raised money for local Barnardo’s projects working with disadvantaged young people including play schemes for children with disabilities, family centres and parenting classes. Barnardo’s works with approximately 115,000 children, young people and their families in 394 specialised .... click for more | |||||
| JUN 08 - DROP ANCHOR AT THE ANCHOR BANKSIDE One of London’s most famous and iconic pubs, the Anchor Bankside, will reopen on Tuesday 24th June following a major £1.6 million investment programme. The extensive nine week refurbishment will sympathetically transform the pub into a flagship site for Spirit Group, the managed pub division of Punch Taverns. Originally built in 1775, the Anchor sits on the site of a former brewery and is steeped in history having been used as a tavern, a chapel and a ship’s chandlery. Dr Johnson is thought .... click for more | |||||
| MAY 08 - BARNADO'S BIG TODDLE GOES WACKY Throughout June, Toddlers will be putting their best foot forward at 71 Wacky Warehouses nationwide to raise funds for the Barnardo’s Big Toddle, a sponsored half mile walk for the under 5’s. In conjunction with Wacky Warehouse, the Big Toddle 2008 will raise money for local Barnardo’s projects working with disadvantaged young people including play schemes for children with disabilities, family centres and parenting classes. Barnardo’s works with approximately 115,000 children, young people .... click for more | |||||
| MAY 08 - CALLING ALL IDENTICAL TWINS FOR 'FREE TWIN TUESDAY' To celebrate the launch of the new Two for One pub menu on 22nd May, “free twin Tuesday” gives away free meals to identical twins. Two for One pubs, owned by the Spirit Group, are giving away FREE steak meals* to all identical twins in the UK on 27th May. Two for One pubs everywhere are searching for identical twins to support this offer. To participate, identical twins can go into their local Two for One pub with their sibling, plus passports, to eat a steak meal each for free. The new .... click for more | |||||
| MAY 08 - 'A GOOD NIGHT INNS' FOR THE KIRBY MUXLOE CASTLE The Castle Hotel in Kirby Muxloe will reopen on 22nd May following a major £200,000 investment. The 22 bedroom hotel adjacent to the Chef & Brewer pub on Main Street, Kirby Muxloe, is being redeveloped as a Good Night Inn, a new quality standard launched by the hotel’s owner, The Spirit Group. The Castle will be refurbished in keeping with the historic and quality feel of the site. As a Good Night Inn, the new-look hotel will feature upgraded beds with luxurious duvets and pillows, .... click for more | |||||
| MAY 08 - FIRST GRILL HOUSE KITCHEN SIZZLES IN MICKLEOVER The Nag’s Head in Mickleover reopened on April 26 as the UK’s first Grill House Kitchen following a major £400k investment. Grill House Kitchen, a new concept developed by Spirit Group, offers an extensive range of freshly prepared grilled food, complimented by a wide range of real ales and wines in modern surroundings. The interior of the Nag’s Head on Uttoxeter Road has been completely refurbished in a bright, sophisticated style with a modern colour scheme. The new-look pub .... click for more | |||||
| APR 08 - JOIN CHEF & BREWER'S BIG VEGETABLE CHALLENGE Will the length of your rhubarb put others to shame? Keep your eyes peeled for the hottest potato or the fastest runner bean in your vegetable patch!To celebrate the launch of Chef & Brewer’s brand new menu and it’s focus on British seasonal vegetables, each of the 138 pubs will be looking for the biggest home grown vegetable in the area! Everyone can take part in the competition which will continue until the 22nd June 2008.To enter ‘the big vegetable challenge’ simply bring along your .... click for more | |||||
| APR 08 - SPIRIT CALLS TIME ON CARBON FOOTPRINT Managed pub operator, Spirit Group, the Managed Division of Punch Taverns, is seeing green as an innovative scheme for saving energy in pubs delivers results. All 800 Spirit pubs committed to reduce their carbon footprint, in an initiative designed to illustrate both the business and environmental benefits of reducing energy consumption. In an industry first, Spirit Group has installed smart meters across its managed estate. The first step in reducing pubs’ carbon footprints, .... click for more | |||||
| APR 08 - SPIRIT SWITCHES ON TO ANOTHER BRIGHT IDEA As part of its carbon management programme, Spirit Group has announced plans to replace light bulbs in its 800 plus managed pub estate with energy efficient bulbs. A first for the pub industry, Spirit Group aims to replace the light bulbs over the next three months, representing a significant investment of £250,000 in energy efficient lighting. Commenting on the initiative, Andrew Knight, managing director of Spirit Group explains: “Our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint goes from .... click for more | |||||
| MAR 08 - A WACKING GREAT SUM FOR THE NSPCC! The NSPCC received £25,000 to help with its aim to protect children from cruelty, support vulnerable families, campaign for changes to the law and raise awareness about abuse. The Lawnswood Arms Wacky Warehouse in Leeds visited the Emmerdale set on Thursday 20th March to hand over the £25,000 donation to the NSPCC. The money was donated by the Spirit Group, the managed house division of Punch Taverns, the UK’s largest pub company, through the kind generosity of customers and staff from the .... click for more | |||||
| MAR 08 - HAVE A GREAT CRAIC AT CHEF & BREWER THIS ST PATRICK'S DAY If you’re looking for somewhere special to celebrate St Patrick’s Day this year, Chef & Brewer will be hosting one of the biggest and best St Patrick’s days outside of Ireland. In celebration of the patron Saint a celebratory meal has been created and will be served in all 133 Chef & Brewer venues across the country. The Irish community represents around 1.2% of the population in England and Wales, so it’s the ideal place to visit for a unique but authentic ‘Paddy’s Day’ .... click for more | |||||
| FEB 08 - A GREAT SUM FOR BBC CHILDREN IN NEED SPIRIT GROUP’S £25,000 DONATION FROM WACKY WAREHOUSE.Children in Need are receiving £25,000 from Wacky Warehouse to help with its vision to positively change the lives of disadvantaged children and young people all over the UK. BBC Children In Need’s Pudsey Bear will visit the Bermuda Park Wacky Warehouse play barn in Nuneaton on February 15th at 12 noon to thank staff for their efforts and celebrate the receipt of the £25,000 donation. The money is being donated by the Spirit Group, the .... click for more | |||||
| FEB 08 - FLICKERING CANDLES & COSY CORNERS ON 14TH FEBRUARY We think there is no better event for capturing the beauty of our Chef & Brewer pubs than Valentine’s Night. Roaring log fires, flickering candles, cosy corners and of course - you. On Thursday February 14th Chef & Brewer will be celebrating Valentines day. Our head chefs have created the perfect menu especially for the occasion; this includes a Special lovers supper, which includes Parma Ham and Cashel Blue en Croute, British Steak Rossini, Seafood Risotto and Chocolate Fondue to .... click for more | |||||
| FEB 08 - PLATINUM BEER AWARDS IN SCOTLAND Two unique pubs have both become the first in Scotland to gain the prestigious Beautiful Beer Platinum Award. The Café Royal Circle bar in Edinburgh and the Burnbrae pub near Glasgow were hailed for the quality and range of beer, knowledgeable staff and menus which match beers to complement different food dishes. Manager of the Café Royal Valerie Graham was delighted by the accolade. Valerie said: “Only a handful of pubs in the UK have the Beautiful Beer Platinum Award and we’re honoured to .... click for more | |||||
| JAN 08 - AN OFFALLY GOOD TRADITIONAL BURNS NIGHT SUPPER On Friday January 25th Chef & Brewer will be celebrating the life and work of Scottish poet Robbie Burns with a ritual of traditional food drink and poetry. Highlights of this special five course supper include Chicken Livers with a creamy Whisky sauce, Haggis, Neeps & Tatties, Wild Scottish Venison Steak with Rumbeldethumps and Chocolate & Whisky Tart. The night will focus on delivering the best quality food and drink sourced from local British produce. Chef & .... click for more | |||||
| NOV 07 - SPIRIT TASTES SUCCESS AT NATIONAL PUB FOOD AWARDS Consistent innovation and a commitment to dishing up first class food has helped Burton pub company the Spirit Group scoop a national industry award.Spirit won Retail Concept of the Year at the annual Publican Pub Food Awards for its Chef and Brewer pubs, which offer customers high quality food with great service in a cosy, relaxed atmosphere. Since being acquired by Punch Taverns almost three years ago, Chef and Brewer has, according to the judges, ‘successfully reinvented and refreshed .... click for more | |||||
| OCT 07 - SPIRIT ACADEMY CELEBRATES ITS GRADUATES Spirit Group has raised a toast to the first pub managers to ‘graduate’ from its new learning and development centre. They have successfully completed a series of residential courses at the venue, which forms part of the Spirit Academy, the umbrella name for the pub company’s complete employee training and development offer. The group honed their business, leadership and management skills through a training programme designed to help them become professional pub retailers and further their .... click for more | |||||
| OCT 07 - PUB STARS LIGHT UP SPIRIT AWARDS NIGHT Spirit Group turned the spotlight on its ‘star’ pub managers at a glittering awards night to recognise and reward their outstanding achievements. The black-tie gala dinner was the finale of the Spirit Stars programme which was launched earlier this year to celebrate the talents of its people around the country. The top performers from 65 pubs were invited to stay at the five-star Oulton Hall hotel near Leeds and each received their prizes at the awards dinner. Twelve were chosen as pub of the .... click for more | |||||
| SEP 07 - RETAIL DIRECTOR RETURNS TO HIS ROOTS A senior manager with 20 years experience in retailing has returned to his first love, the hospitality sector, and joined leading pub company the Spirit Group. Richard Carter is the new retail director for the managed house division of Punch Taverns, the UK’s largest pub operator. It is something of a homecoming for this graduate in hotel and institutional management who trained as a classical chef and spent two years running a pub. In his new role Richard will oversee the four operations .... click for more | |||||
| SEP 07 - SPIRIT PUSHES THE BOAT OUT AS THE 'INN PLAICE' FOR FISH Spirit Group is pushing the boat out by launching an expanded range of tasty fresh fish dishes across its Chef & Brewer pubs to claim the sector’s seafood crown. All 140 of its quality dining venues will be given full rein to produce a ‘specials’ board of fish dishes to offer more choice and variety, in addition to the core menus. Chefs are encouraged to produce dishes which can reflect regional differences and tastes, and give them greater scope to display their culinary .... click for more | |||||
| AUG 07 - £25,000 BOOST FOR BREAST CANCER CARE Breast Cancer Care, the UK's leading provider of information, practical assistance and emotional support for anyone affected by breast cancer is receiving a £25,000 donation to help it with its vital work in Wales and across the UK. The money is being donated by the Spirit Group, the managed house division of Punch Taverns, the UK’s largest pub company, through the kind generosity of customers and staff from the Spirit Group’s pubs across South Wales. Commenting on the donation Menai .... click for more | |||||
| AUG 07 - £25,000 BOOST FOR GREAT ORMOND STREET CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL World class Great Ormond Street Hospital is receiving £25,000 to help with its essential redevelopment work. The money is being donated by the Spirit Group, the managed house division of Punch Taverns, the UK’s largest pub company, through the kind generosity of customers and staff from the Spirit Group’s pubs across the capital. Commenting on the donation Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity’s, Head of Community Fundraising, Matt Forrest said: “We are very grateful to the .... click for more | |||||
| JUL 07 - SPIRIT SERVES UP HEALTHIER CHOICES AND IMPROVED FAVOURITES IN NEW MENU Pub company Spirit Group is meeting customer appetites for quality and value with a new menu that serves up healthier choices, improved favourites and new dishes.The revamped seasonal menu for its Two For One pubs and Family focused pubs has already had positive feedback and demonstrates the importance the chain attaches to understanding its customers and their tastes.Among the changes is a link-up with Heinz to offer the new HP Steak Sauce on two dishes – the 10 oz rodeo rib eye steak and the .... click for more | |||||
| JUL 07 - SPIRIT PUB CHEERS A BEER AWARD 'FIRST' A popular country pub has become the first in Wales to gain the prestigious Beautiful Beer Platinum Award. The Maenllwyd Inn in Rudry, near Caerphilly, was hailed for the quality and range of its beer, its knowledgeable staff and a menu which matches beers to complement different food dishes.Managers Alistair and Kelly Baker were delighted by the accolade, which follows being named Spirit Group’s Pub of the Year in 2006 for their high standards for food and drink and customer .... click for more | |||||
| JUL 07 - PUBCO SERVES UP A TWIST AS SMOOTHIE OPERATORS HIT CITY PUBS Fresh fruit smoothies and ice cold frappes are on the drinks menu at selected pubs throughout the Spirit Group this month, as bar staff in city venues get their hands on brand new smoothie-making equipment. Sixty pubs in cities across the country will be the first to receive the special smoothie machines, and there are plans to introduce the innovation to other divisions during the next 12 months. Pubs are seeing a growing trend for healthy snacks and beverages in pubs, and catering for a .... click for more | |||||
| JUL 07 - BOSSES HEAD FOR THE HEIGHTS IN CHARITY CHALLENGE Two pub bosses at a pub company based in Burton-upon-Trent have shed their suits and taken on the Yorkshire Peaks to raise money for a leading heart charity. Andrew Knight, managing director, and Martyn Drake, strategic planning director at the Spirit Group, the managed pub division of Punch Taverns, donned their walking boots for the 26-mile Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge in aid of Heart Research UK. The pair completed the walk through rain and mud in 11 hours and 45 minutes – beating the .... click for more | |||||
| JUN 07 - STUB IT OUT ON SPIRIT DAY Spirit Group employees are being urged to lend a helping hand at their local as the pub company prepares to stub out smoking for good. With a national ban on smoking in public places, including pubs, bars and restaurants, due to start in England on 1 July, Spirit wants to ensure all its outlets are in tip top condition for customers to enjoy. Hundreds of company colleagues from across the UK, as well as head office staff from Spirit and parent company Punch Taverns in Burton upon Trent, will .... click for more | |||||
| JUN 07 - SPIRIT CELEBRATES ITS STAR PERFORMERS Talented Spirit Group pub managers were treated to a special day at the races to celebrate their outstanding achievements. The dedicated and innovative licensees from 31 pubs around the country are ahead of their field and the VIP event at Chester Races was a chance to recognise and reward their success. Spirit Group laid on a champagne reception and lunch for the group in a private trackside venue before they enjoyed an afternoon’s racing. Managing director Andrew Knight, who hosted the .... click for more | |||||
| MAY 07 - MENU MAESTRO JASON WINS CHICAGO TRIP The man who creates new menus for Spirit Group pubs has picked up a top accolade from the hospitality industry and won a trip to the USA.Menu development manager Jason Radbourn won the premium pub dining category in the annual MenuMasters competition. His prize is a study tour to Chicago from May 18-23 to visit the National Restaurant Association Show, the largest catering exhibition in the US.Jason, who is based at Spirit’s Burton-upon-Trent headquarters, was recognised for his work in .... click for more | |||||
| MAY 07 - KIDS GET CRAFTY AS WACKY WAREHOUSE RELAUNCHES TOT TIME Toddlers and their parents will be getting all creative at Wacky Warehouses around the country this month, thanks to the re-launch of a popular kiddie play scheme.Wacky’s Tot Time initiative has returned to Spirit Group pubs with a fresh focus on fun learning through arts and crafts – ideal for parents and child-minders who need to keep their little ones entertained during term time.Spirit has forged a unique link with national retailer The Works to offer more facilities and bring arty .... click for more | |||||
| APR 07 - SPIRITED APPROACH TO QUALITY AND SERVICE Just over a year after its acquisition by Punch Taverns, Spirit Group is developing its managed houses with innovation, an improved food offer and an increased focus on customer service.In its Chef & Brewer pubs, Spirit is further improving its quality food, using more British produce and continuing its focus on using fresh ingredients.A new menu which goes live from 17 April includes British 35-day matured beef for all steaks and burgers, British farm assured chicken and free range .... click for more | |||||
| APR 07 - WACKY WAREHOUSE WINS PARTY VENUE AWARD Wacky Warehouse, the UK’s best known indoor play barn, has been voted Best Kiddies Party Venue in a national awards scheme.It picked up the honour for the second year running in the 2007 Parent Friendly Awards hosted by Tommy’s, the baby charity.The awards recognise companies that take parents needs into consideration and help make their lives easier while out and about. More than half a million votes were cast by parents in 19 categories. Marketing Director Jeremy Hipkiss, said: “We’re .... click for more | |||||
| MAR 07 - THAT'S THE SPIRIT AS L-DRIVER HELEN WINS CAR A popular member of staff at a Wigan pub has won a car in her company’s employee recognition scheme – now she just needs to pass her driving test.Helen Deluce, an 18-year-old team player at the Bay Horse in Ashton-in-Makerfield, scooped a £10,000 Ford Fiesta from the Spirit Group.The company’s That’s the Spirit scheme celebrates the achievements of employees with silver, gold and platinum awards. Silver award winners receive a scratch card which reveals their prize, which could be anything from .... click for more | |||||
| MAR 07 - PUB'S PRIZE CATCH IN SEAFOOD AWARDS A landlocked Midlands pub has reeled in a top award, winning its company’s Seafood Pub of the Year title for a fifth consecutive year.The Running Horse Inn, Bewdley, scooped the accolade in a competition open to the Spirit Group’s 133 Chef and Brewer pubs and judged by industry body Seafish. It is further recognition for the quality fare served up at this popular venue which attracts customers from as far as mid-Wales to sample the fresh, innovative and ever-changing menu.The pub is managed by .... click for more | |||||
| MAR 07 - PUB TRUMPETS ITS BEAUTIFUL BEER AWARD A Northampton pub has struck gold with a prestigious new accolade for the quality of its beer.The Spirit-owned, The Trumpet in Weston Favell has been given the ‘Beautiful Beer’ Gold award by the British Beer & Pub Association. Pub manager David Bone was presented with the gong by the Mayor of Northampton Colin Lill. The Gold award is given for excellent standards in hygiene and presentation, with a focus on the temperature, taste and colour of a pub’s beer. Inspectors look carefully at the .... click for more | |||||
| MAR 07 - CHAMPIONS GET GOLDEN TEE-CKET TO LAS VEGAS UK golfing fans have swapped the greens for the pub by competing in the fifth Golden Tee Live World Championships.The highly popular video gaming event organised by Electrocoin and The Spirit Group – the managed house division of the UK’s largest pubco, Punch Taverns – took place in over 50 pubs and attracted more than 400 competitors.Two lucky winners, who fought off tough competition at the UK finals held at City Limits First Base Sports Bar in Romford, will now be given a swing at the big .... click for more | |||||
| MAR 07 - STUDENTS READY TO ENROL AS NEW PUB ACADEMY LAUNCHES The Spirit Group has unveiled a new learning and development centre, designed to be a hub for all its managerial training.The facility in Northampton forms part of the Spirit Academy, an umbrella name for the pub company’s complete employee training offer.Following an investment of £60,000, the centre will welcome up to 180 ‘student’ pub managers during 2007, helping them on their way to ‘graduation’ with a series of residential courses. Spirit’s head of learning and development Andrew .... click for more | |||||
| FEB 07 - WACKY WAREHOUSE GROWS UP The UK’s best known indoor playbarn, Wacky Warehouse, is growing up and appealing to a whole new generation of parents.Part of the Spirit Group, there are 73 Wackys across the country entertaining over four million children every year. But to make the experience as enjoyable for mums and dads as it is for their kids, Spirit has introduced an adult friendly area, which is being rolled out across the estate at a rate of two per week. The adult area is based on the high street coffee .... click for more | |||||
| JAN 07 - SPIRIT'S KITCHEN INNOVATION IS KEY FOR A QUALITY FOOD SERVICE The growing importance of the pub food offer and the focus on well equipped and well organised kitchens to meet consumer expectations has been recognised by the Spirit Group.The managed house arm of Punch Taverns has appointed Nick Brassett to the newly created role of catering equipment and operations manager.Nick has already started to formalise the group’s kitchen equipment strategy by being closely involved in Spirit’s extensive investment programme, starting new equipment trials and by .... click for more | |||||
| JAN 07 - SPIRIT GROUP IN AWARDS FINAL FOR WATER SAVING SCHEME Conservation-conscious pub operator the Spirit Group has been hailed for its efforts to save water which have put it in the running for a prestigious national award.The Burton-upon-Trent based organisation has been short-listed for the Environment Agency Water Efficiency Awards 2007 in the leisure and tourism category.The awards recognise organisations that lead by example in cutting down on the water they use to help to conserve this precious resource. They show what water efficiency means in .... click for more | |||||
facts | |||||
| facts Interesting facts you didn't know about Spirit Group Q: If you put our pool tables end to end, how far would they stretch?A: Three miles Q: How many cubic metres of water have we saved this year as a result of our carbon trial?A: 725,000 Q: How many rump steaks do we sell every year?A: 3.2 million Q: How many cucumbers do we use every year?A: Enough to stretch end to end from Lands End to John O'Groats Q: How many tones of chips do we sell every year?A: 14,000 - enough to .... click for more | |||||
press office | |||||
| contacts Welcome to the press room We are passionate about our pubs and to help us provide an even better service to our customers we have introduced a brand new in-house press room manned 24/7, 365 days a year. All media enquiries should be directed to the 24 hour Press Office number: 01283 501 635 or emailed to: newswire@punchtaverns.com. The PR team is made up of Sarah Perrins (Head of PR & Communications, Joanna Lumani (Spirit Group Press Officer) and Jo Sandall (Punch .... click for more | |||||
join the team | |||||
| movie links .... click for more | |||||
| join the team Welcome to the recruitment section of Spirit Group’s website. Here you’ll get a flavour of what we, as one of the UK’s largest and fastest moving independent pub operators, can offer your career. Our estate ranges from the traditional unbranded local to charming food pubs and even wacky warehouses, so we really do have something to suit every customer’s tastes. But more importantly, for you, the breadth of our portfolio means we’ve a wealth of career opportunities. Whatever stage .... click for more | |||||
| Real life experiences The links at the top of the page will tell you everything you need to know about working for us and we have also put together a couple of video's for you to watch. However, if you’d like more facts and figures about the Spirit Group, then visit the “About Us” and “Corporate” sections of the main site. Jason - Chef Callum - Retail Management .... click for more | |||||
| Which major concepts are within the Spirit portfolio? Locals: John Barras; Q’s; Mr Q’s; Steak & Ale; Ale & Hearty DevCo: Firkin Beer Co; Gastro Pubs; Bar Room Bar City: Bar 38; Old Orleans; Square, Via Fossa, The Bedroom Spirit Food: Chef & Brewer; Two Four One, Wacky Warehouse .... click for more | |||||
company values | |||||
| values .... click for more | |||||
career development | |||||
| career development At Spirit Group, our ‘People First’ philosophy means that you’d struggle to find a better career partner. It’s not just a case of providing a comprehensive training and development programme that’s tailored to your individual needs though. Whether you’re completely new to the industry or an old hand, we’re committed to providing you with all the everyday help, advice and support you could ask for. And all the opportunities you need to fulfil your aspirations. Reward & Recognition .... click for more | |||||
| training & development At the heart of our Training & Development programmes is a commitment to ensuring our customers leave wanting to return. By helping you to develop all the skills you need to play your role in this, we not only enhance our business, but also your career prospects. Whatever stage of your career you’re at, you’ll enjoy an array of on-the-job and more formal training. All of which will help you to develop, both personally and professionally. All our training is tailored to your .... click for more | |||||
| rewards & recognition As it’s our people that are the secret to our success, it’s only fair that we reward their efforts. So as well as outstanding training and career opportunities, we also offer great benefits packages. Together with very competitive rates of pay we offer quarterly and annual bonuses, and private health care. .... click for more | |||||
management jobs | |||||
| Retail Manager Reports to: Business Development ManagerRole Purpose:
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| Business Development Manager Reports to: Operations Director Role Purpose:
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| management opportunities It takes a lot to be a part of our management structure. For starters, you’ll need a lively personality, but we really look for people with the common sense and commercial flair to deliver real results. With so many pubs, we’re bound to have a role that’s perfect for you and matches your level of experience. The variety of our business also means that there are plenty of opportunities to move your career forward. You may want to build a long-term business and stamp your personality on a .... click for more | |||||
kitchen jobs | |||||
| Kitchen Jobs Kitchen JobsFrom small country pubs producing high quality food with the freshest ingredients to high volume high street and family eateries, we’ve a lot to offer our chefs. In fact, our diverse range of menus caters for all skill levels. Food’s big business and to keep ahead in such fast paced industry, we’re continually evolving our offering. For you this means a structured career path and the chance to really make your mark on our business. Click here to apply. .... click for more | |||||
team players | |||||
| Team players There is no doubt that our Team Players are the critical to our success. Whether they’re the first point of contact for our customers or part of the team that keeps their hunger at bay and taste buds delighted, they truly are ambassadors for our company. Bar Staff, Restaurant Staff, Kitchen Staff, Wacky Warehouse StaffWhether you are looking for a full or part-time position, we offer a great work environment and real opportunities for career progression. You don’t need any .... click for more | |||||
head office jobs | |||||
| Introduction Both Spirit Group and Punch Head Offices are based in Burton on Trent in Staffordshire. We regularly have opportunities for exceptional people that have the same determination and drive as we have. We pride ourselves on bringing the best people into Punch Taverns & Spirit Group and giving them the opportunity to excel in their chosen field, with the benefits of financial rewards and personal development. All head office jobs are listed on the Punch Taverns website, please .... click for more | |||||
find a pub | |||||
| find a pub To find your nearest Spirit Group pub(s) simply enter your postcode, town or London street name and click the 'search' button. If you are looking for a hotel why not visit our Good Night Inns website. Choose:Town/city Postcode London Street Use our advanced search facilityto find the outlets within your county or town. .... click for more | |||||
contact us | |||||
| contact us Spirit Group 107 Station Street Burton on Trent Staffordshire DE14 1SZ Tel: 01283 545320 Fax: 01283 502357 E-mail: hub@thespiritgroup.com We'd love you to tell us what you think about our pubs, our service, or anything else that comes to mind. We welcome all of your comments and suggestions. Please drop us a line or use the general enquiry form below: Click here to submit comments .... click for more | |||||
finding us | |||||
| finding us Directions to 107 Station Street, Burton on Trent .... click for more | |||||