Portfolio
THE LIBERATION GROUP
- Sector: Leisure
- Acquisition: Jul 2008
- Deal Size: N/D
- Exit: In portfolio
In July 2008, LGV acquired the Hospitality Division and drinks distribution businesses of SandpiperCI to create the Liberation Group.
The Liberation Group comprises 69 predominantly freehold pubs located on Jersey, Guernsey and Alderney, the Jersey Brewery and the two drinks distribution businesses, Victor Hugo (Jersey) and Bucktrout & Co (Guernsey).
LGV backed a new Chief Executive, Mark Crowther, who is supported by Declan Hearne (Finance Director) and Kenrick Brooks (Operations Director). Ex-Hospitality Division Managing Director Ed Daubeney joined the Board as a Non-Executive Director and Graham Turner – the chief Executive of the Tragus Group of restaurants - is Non-Executive Chairman.
LGV was attracted to the high quality nature of the pubs, and will continue to make targeted investments in the estate so as to maintain its strong market position across all three islands. The brewery and distribution businesses also represent first class trading operations, which have the potential to generate strong returns.
