Ei Group launches Spitfire Pub & Kitchen

Pub operator, Ei Group, has announced it is to launch a new pub named Spitfire Pub & Kitchen. Launching as part of the Ei Publican Partnerships initiative which will see them partner with multi-operators, Adam and Sue Franklin, the new pub in Ainsdale has been refurbished following its acquisition as part of a major £300,000 joint investment. The duo currently operates two successful Ei Publican Partnerships pubs in the area, The Ring O’ Bells in Farnworth and The Horse & Jockey in Melling, which was the winner of ‘Best Turnaround Pub’ at Ei Group’s Awards for Excellence last year. Ei Group has recently committed to investing £80m per year in its estate to support publicans. The Spitfire Pub & Kitchen renovations include external decoration, new signage, as well as introducing a “modern look and feel throughout” the venue. In addition to a revamped bar, including a designated gin bar, the new site boasts an open kitchen, garden terrace, and an outdoor children’s play area. The opening has created 40 new jobs for the local area. Pub operator, Sue Franklin said: “We are thrilled to have taken on our third pub with Ei Publican Partnerships. We’ve developed an honest, trustworthy and transparent business partnership and we’re very thankful for their ongoing support, confidence and investment in ourselves as operators. “Just like the team at Ei Group, we’re truly passionate about reinvigorating pubs for the local community, so when the opportunity arose to take on this much-loved Ainsdale pub, we jumped at the chance. With this significant investment, we have been able to revitalise the pub adding something for everyone, and we very much look forward to welcoming guests new and old.” As part of the regeneration, Adam Franklin, an award-winning chef, has curated a new all-day dining menu featuring pub classics, such as steak & ale pie; alongside homemade pizzas and pastas; a Sunday carvery; and a world food menu section.. Ei Publican Partnerships Regional Manager, Delia Thynne, added: “Pubs are more than just businesses, they are the heart of their local communities and part of what makes the UK the country it is. “We’re passionate about identifying outstanding publicans across our estate and giving them the support, investment and resources, they need to grow their businesses and create outstanding local pubs in the heart of communities. Adam and Sue have a tremendous track record of running much-loved and successful pubs and we’re delighted to be further strengthening our partnership.”