Hawthorn launches Proper Pubs operator managed brand

Hawthorn has announced the creation of its new operator managed platform, Proper Pubs, which will be run by director of managed operations Mark Brooke (pictured).

Consisting of around 20% of the Hawthorn estate, Proper Pubs are wet-led community pubs. Over the last few years, Hawthorn has developed what it describes as a well-established and scalable operator-managed division. This has included several conversions from the leased and tenanted model.

Proper Pubs will support Hawthorn's new corporate charity partner, Chasing the Stigma, which works to create clear pathways to access mental health care. Proper Pub operators will have the opportunity to become Ambassadors of Hope to provide support for pubgoers.

Proper Pubs will also raise funds for community initiatives, starting with the installation of a defibrillator in venues for community use.

Brooke said: "You can't beat a Proper Pub, and this platform will bring our entire division together. The brand builds on the strong foundations of the original Hawthorn operator managed model, and applies learnings from Bravo Inns, which we acquired in 2019, and how that business was successfully grown.

"People are at the heart of everything we do, and we want our Proper Pub operators to be community heroes who know their regulars and treat them like a true friend. By creating the Proper Pubs brand, we're giving them the freedom and confidence to support their customers and their local community in whatever way they see fit, and make their pub a place where the whole community feels welcome."

Investment in refurbishments and renovations across the portfolio will continue.

Admiral Taverns recently completed the £222m purchase of the Hawthorn portfolio from property investor NewRiver.