Are you looking to run a pub in the west country ? It’s been a life long dream of many to finally take the “dive” into the unknown and perhaps relocate to the beauty and calm serenity of the South West. If you are looking for a fantastic pub company & regional brewer to invest with and run a magical pub with then St Austell should be one of the top pub companies on your list to talk to
Their story began in 1851 when founder Walter Hicks mortgaged his farm for £1,500 to set up a new family business in St Austell. Discover our fascinating history below.
A humble beginning
Walter started out as a modest wine merchant and maltster before buying the local Seven Stars Inn in 1863. Nestled on East Hill in St Austell, it was here where he learned the art of brewing.
The business rapidly outgrew its original site, leading to relocation on Tregonissey Lane in 1893, where St Austell Brewery remains to this day. There have been many alterations and improvements over the years, but the essential brewhouse of 1893 still sits firmly at the heart of it all.
Expanding horizons
Tragedy struck the family in 1911 when Walter junior sadly died in a motorcycle accident in Helston. Walter Hicks returned to the helm at the age of 82 and oversaw the running of the business until his death in 1916. He was succeeded by his daughter, Hester Parnall.
Hester, who went everywhere with her pair of Pekinese dogs, would have a significant influence on the business, shaping it into what it has ultimately become today through expanding the hospitality offering. She was a driven businesswoman with a fierce reputation. So much so, that the first person to spot her chauffeur-driven Daimler arriving in the brewery yard would tap on the water pipes, telegraphing a message across the brewery to alert everyone to be on their best behaviour. Hester was Chairman of the company until she died in 1939.
A new beginning
St Austell Brewery celebrated an exciting new chapter in 1999 when Roger Ryman joined as Head Brewer, inspiring a newfound enthusiasm for beer quality and innovation. Tasked with crafting a small batch beer to mark the Solar Eclipse, he made an instant impact with Daylight Robbery – an incredibly popular pale ale that was rebranded as Tribute in 2001. Of course, his debut brew has since gone on to become our most famous and successful beer to date.
Roger’s skill and thirst for trying new things, with help from a passionate team of talented brewers, brought life to a series of excellent beers that have since become permanent fixtures. The likes of Proper Job IPA, korev lager, and Mena Dhu stout continue to be enjoyed far and wide.
Have you considered working with St Austell Brewery & Pub Company?
With unrivalled training and support whenever you need it, you don’t need previous experience or qualifications to become a pub operator. From Bristol to the Isles of Scilly, there’s sure to be the perfect business venture for those ready to take on the challenge of running a pub.
Run A Pub In The West Country – Working With St Austell Leased & Tenanted Pubs
View available pubs currently with St Austell
Make An Enquiry
Working With St Austell Leased & Tenanted Pubs
Apply to run a pub with St Austell
Whether you’re new to running your own pub or an experienced landlord, we offer some of the very best training in the industry. To help you succeed in your new venture, you’ll work with one of our dedicated business development managers.
Hear from our four business development managers: Jim Sloan, Chris Faulkner, John M.Williams, and Clive Green.
Moving into the pub industry was a big leap for us as teachers and there is a great deal of bad press aimed at breweries in particular. We did our research and it was clear that St Austell did not conform to these stereotypes. The brand is a strong one and is growing, a family led organisation based on core values with a community focus, everything a good pub should be
Working With St Austell Leased & Tenanted Pubs
