The family-run firm behind some of Staffordshire’s top venues has kicked off a special anniversary year by thanking long-serving staff and producing its own brand of gin.
The Lewis Partnership opened its first pub 35 years ago this June and now owns three popular sites including The Moat House at Acton Trussell, near Stafford.
Celebrations started with a dinner to recognise the company’s 25 longest-serving staff members – and everyone will be able to raise a glass to their achievements when The Lewis Partnership’s own anniversary tipple is released later in the year.
The firm has been working with Sixtowns, in Barlaston, to create a limited run of a new London dry gin which will be served in its venues and available for customers to purchase and take home.
Operations Director Emily Lewis, pictured above, said: “We have exciting plans to mark our 35th anniversary year and it was great to host a for a dinner to show our appreciation to our longest-serving members of staff.
“When we did the maths, we realised that equated to over 300 years’ worth of service. One of them has worked in the restaurant for 34 years now – almost the whole history of the company.”
She added: “The gin should be out by late May or early June and we’re excited to introduce it to our customers.”
Emily has taken over the running of the business over the last 18 months and is the third generation of the family to be at the helm.
The Moat House, pictued above, became home to her family’s farm in the 1950’s but a decision was later made to diversify and turn it into a pub and restaurant.
It was opened in 1988 by her grandparents John and Mary Lewis and her dad Chris Lewis.
Various extensions have since been added to provide bedrooms, a function room and conference facilities and it is now an award-winning, luxury manor house hotel.
Chris took over overall management of the business in the early 2000’s and saw the expansion of the business to other sites.
The Lewis Partnership now also owns The Dog and Doublet country inn, at Sandon, and The Red Lion gastro pub at Bradley.
Earlier this month, The Moat House picked up two bronze awards at the Enjoy Staffordshire Tourism & Good Food Awards 2023, whilst the Dog and Doublet picked up a silver.
