J&S takes on fifth Star Pubs site

The North Yorkshire multiple operator, J&S Pub Company, has taken on its fifth Star Pubs and Bars site, Mist Bar and Lounge in Scarborough, taking its pub estate to a total of seven.

The company has also completed a £205k joint refurbishment with Star Pubs, transforming the high street pub into a traditional Irish pub, named McGinty’s. Overall, 10 new jobs have been created on the back of the investment.

The 46-cover interior has a rustic Celtic look with exposed brick walls, distressed painted panelling and hand painted murals. Customers have a choice of green and burgundy leather booth style seating, high button back machinist bar stools and retro-styled wood and metal freestanding chairs.  

Outside, new signage, lighting and window planters, together with a mural on the side elevation, have been implemented in the pub. Additionally, new rustic style furniture and festoon lighting in the courtyard beer garden have been introduced to keep with the internal décor.

McGinty’s is J&S Pub Company’s second Irish bar, following The Golden Lion in Whitby, which has reportedly been a “great success” since it opened. The operator is run by James and Stacy Durham.

James Durham, owner of J&S Pub Company, said: “If McGinty’s does well, we will roll it out as a brand across more locations in Yorkshire and the North East. The staff we recruit determines the speed of our growth. We find our managers first and then look for sites to suit them. In the case of McGinty’s we have a couple from Dublin running it.

“There is a real gap in the market for pubs that appeal to an older demographic who want to dress up and make an occasion of going out.”

Dave Rowland, business development manager, added: “James and Stacey are experienced and accomplished operators who really understand the hospitality scene in Scarborough. We are delighted to have completed a joint investment with them to transform a tired pub into an authentic Irish bar.

“The opening is well timed as the spring summer season is commencing in this famous seaside resort. McGinty’s is looking to attract a broad clientele with its eclectic drinks range coupled with regular live music. I wish them every success for the future.”

All in all, J&S Pub Company’s Star pubs sites include The Golden Lion in Whitby, The Commercial Scarborough, The Ramshill Hotel, Scarborough and The Nag’s Head in Scalby, as well as non-Star pubs, The New Lancaster and The Plough Inn and Fun Farm in Scarborough.