Scratch Consultancy expands lease with Star Pubs and Bars
The layout will incorporate a traditional bar with screens for sports and a 100-seat dining area, as well as a private dining room that seats 20 people and a “stylish” all-weather alfresco area that will sit 60 people
Business consultancy company, Scratch Consultancy, has taken the lease on its second site with Star Pub and Bars, The Compasses in Chelmsford, with aspirations to build an estate of five pubs across Essex and North Kent with the pub and bar operator.
The two companies will undertake a joint £250k refurbishment of The Compasses before reopening it in early November after nearly three years of closure. Some 14 new jobs at the venue will also be created.
The investment is said to upgrade the property to a high standard, transforming it into a “great quality, family-friendly pub serving outstanding food”. The layout will incorporate a traditional bar with screens for sports and a 100-seat dining area, as well as a private dining room that seats 20 people and a “stylish” all-weather alfresco area that will sit 60 people.
In addition, a kitchen refit will also enable the pub to “offer restaurant quality food”, which is expected to account for 40% of the venue’s sales. The menu will focus on gourmet pub classics, such as burgers and fish and chips. All the dishes will reportedly be freshly prepared from scratch using ingredients sourced from local suppliers.
According to Scratch Consultancy, a carefully curated drinks selection of premium lagers and spirits, classic cocktails and modern eclectic wines will also be on offer.
Ben Mulvaney, the co-founder of Scratch Consultancy Ltd, has worked in hospitality for 20 years heading up food and beverages in five-star boutique hotels, bars and restaurants such as Hotel du Vin in Birmingham, The Trafalgar Hilton in London and Theatre by Gary Rhodes in Dubai.
The company opened its first pub, The Blue Lion in Great Baddow, in 2020 and has reportedly increased its trade by 500%.
Mulvaney said: “We aim to deliver restaurant-quality food and table service at pub prices in a relaxed pub environment. People are seeking independently operated pubs and restaurants, and we’re targeting suburban locations where there’s a shortage of good places to eat and drink in the immediate vicinity.
“Our expansion plans are built around leasing rather than buying pubs as it ties up less revenue, allowing us to grow more rapidly whilst maintaining cash flow. We can also tap into Star’s support and resources; it’s a win-win for both parties.”
Andrew Smurthwaite, area manager of Star Pubs and Bars, said: “We’re delighted to back the growth of Scratch Consultancy. Bringing a high-end hospitality approach to the traditional pub is working fantastically for them at The Blue Lion.
“Residents have been asking them to open a second pub. The Compasses is just the location and I’m sure it will be an equal success.”
