Two Staffordshire pubs have reopened following a combined £525,000 investment from Punch Pubs & Co.
The Red Lion, in Leek, has undergone a £275,000 refurbishment, while £250,000 has been spent on The Crown & Cushion, in Biddulph.
Both venues have reopened under new leadership boasting a new look with refreshed social space. They are each equipped to show Sky and TNT Sports including all major sporting events.
The Red Lion has reopened after a three-week closure under the new leadership of Dave Jennings and Rach Bereton.
The Market Place pub’s exterior has been redecorated and had new signage, while the beer garden has been refreshed with new planters, lighting and outdoor furniture.
Inside, the pub now offers two soft snugs, a redesigned main bar area, upgraded flooring, heritage-themed décor, and refreshed lighting, fixtures and traditional upholstered seating.
Dave said: “Having spent many years enjoying the pub, I’m truly excited to re-establish The Red Lion as a genuine community hub, the go-to place for celebrations, catch-ups, memorable nights out, sports, dancing, and live entertainment.
“But importantly, it will be a supportive workplace where staff feel valued and able to grow.”
Punch Pubs & Co’s Senior Operations Manager, Rachael Henry, added: “I’m incredibly proud to welcome Dave, Rach, their families and team into the Punch family, and I’m excited to see The Red Lion thrive at the heart of Leek under their leadership.
“This pub represents our commitment to providing community-driven hospitality, strong local partnerships and the best value-for-money experience. I look forward to seeing their continued success for many years to come.”
At The Crown & Cushion, on High Street, work has been completed on its lounge areas, main trading space, dedicated sports zone including refurbished darts and pool areas, plus enhancements to its beer garden.
Management Partner Kim Welsby has taken the helm and she has ambitions of working with local groups, charities and residents to give back to the community.
She said: “We’re incredibly excited to welcome everyone back to The Crown & Cushion.
“This refurbishment has transformed the pub into a vibrant, modern, community‑focused space while keeping the heart and warmth people love.
“I’m really looking forward to supporting local groups and giving the community a place they can be proud of.”
Punch Pubs & Co is headquartered in Burton upon Trent and has a 1,300-strong portfolio across England, Scotland and Wales.
