Sadly, the genuine support and involvement of a ‘personality’ is no guarantee of long-term success in the hospitality business even in good times – still less in the present economy.
Radio and TV star Chris Evans bought the 15th century Lickfold Inn back in 2007, but was forced to close it back in 2010.
The Chief Executive of Evans Pubs – he has two others – was then quoted as saying that “…we can no longer justify keeping the Lickfold open”.
The pub is now boarded up and for sale through Fleurets at a price in the region of £825k, which is believed to be significantly less than the original purchase price, with refurbishment and losses on operational costs no doubt to be added.
