Star Pubs has opened its 200th Just Add Talent pub, The Hesketh in Cheadle Hulme, near Stockport. A £350,000 investment has seen the pub reopen as a family friendly neighbourhood local after an 18-month closure.
Up to 20 new jobs have been created as a result of the investment.
The latest opening shows the company is on track to reach 260 Just Add Talent pubs by the end of 2027. Six of the Just Add Talent conversions of leased and tenanted sites were, like The Hesketh, pubs that had previously been long term closed.
The Hesketh is a Premium Local, one of three different Just Add Talent styles of pub; the others being Community and High Street. Each pub category is determined by its location, its amenities, and its customer profile.
The Hesketh refurbishment has seen a complete internal and external makeover with seating outside doubled to 64.
Inside, the pub has been zoned so it can be used for multiple occasions. This includes a new games area with illuminated darts, pool table, HD TV, open fire and high tables and stools; a dining area with wood burner; and a bar with a mix of free standing and new leather button back banquette style seating. Like other Just Add Talent pub refurbishments, high-definition TVs have been installed throughout so that screens can be viewed from all vantage points.
Funds have also been spent upgrading the kitchen to allow the pub to cater for more covers and to offer the recently launched Just Add Talent winter menu, as food is expected to make up 30% of sales.
Says Mick Howard, Operations Director, Star Pubs: “Our trading figures, up 4.2% this year to date, are proof that Just Add Talent pubs resonate with pubgoers. Mainly based in suburban and estate locations, and offering sports, live entertainment and often food, they give communities a great British pub on their doorstep.”