Operator Prospectus - Amber Taverns
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Operator Prospectus
Our Mission Statement Our Values
To build and grow a profitable company up 1. Always be the heart of a safe community
to 200 sites, where the Amber Family create 2. Always attracting and nurturing the best Operators
the best, safe pubs in any community. and their teams.
Where our customers are proud to visit and 3. Always creating an enjoyable and safe place to work.
return to, time and time again... 4. Always respecting and examining every £ we spend.
5. Always and continually challenging the ‘norm’.
6. Always striving to have the best standards and service
in the hospitality industry.
About Amber Taverns About our pubs
Community pubs
Our community pubs really are that, the heart of the community. Our pubs are a
We are passionate about our Public houses and the warm and welcoming place for people to meet their friends and family and have a
good time. Our variety of pubs is huge and each of our pubs is unique in their own
communities that they serve. We ensure that they are way. Most pubs are in a town centre area and have a great set of regular customers.
refurbished to a very high standard and offer a fantastic All our pubs show all live sport on numerous TV’s and even big screens. All sky
and racing channels are available on a number of sky boxes at each premises. Our
drinks selection and audio-visual package including the venues can offer cosy snug rooms, warm fires and open plan seating areas to suit
full BT and Sky Sports portfolio. everybody’s needs. Our drinks offer is vast with sites offering premium draught,
spirits, cask and even cocktails. Some of our sites also have function rooms which
We offer leading brands such as John Smiths, Fosters, Kronenbourg, Guinness and are suitable for all occasions. All our sites have a high standard, from décor to
Strongbow, the best-selling bottled beers and alcopops as well as a great selection drinks service and each are unique in their own way.
of wine and soft drinks. We have over 150 public houses across the North West,
Hogarths
North East, Midlands, Scotland and Wales. These are mainly community locals in
busy towns as well as some city centre venues.
Born out of a love for gin. Our Hogarths venues are a Victorian Styled Gin Palace
Amber Taverns are unique in that we offer an Operator agreement to all our licensees and provide the perfect mix between a traditional town centre pub and a modern-
and through the Operator agreement our licensees are incentivised to develop the day cocktail bar.
business. We build strong business relationships with you, offer substantial support
and celebrate your success. In addition to our phenomenal range of gins we serve ales, spirits, lagers, wines,
soft drinks and everything in-between.
Our sites offer:
A warm welcome awaits in keeping with Victorian hospitality and tradition. Each of
– Comfortable seating, great atmosphere, good wi-fi and modern designs. our Hogarths mixologists are passionate, knowledgeable and like nothing better
– A great range of drinks at great customer value. than assisting you and your party in choosing a drink from our extensive menu. We
show live sport on Sky and BT on multiple screens and with cosy booths on offer
– Great hospitality and customer service for all eligible members of the community you can relax with friends or engage in the electric atmosphere inside the bar.
and we do this safely.
THE GINSPIRATION – We are the ultimate experience in pioneering gin bars. Our
– Great events. décor is themed on the classic Victorian Gin Palace and our mission is simple, to
– Market leading sports coverage. serve great Gin cocktails, in fantastic surroundings the way they were always meant
to be served.
How it works We invite you to unwind in our relaxed atmosphere with the drink of your choice.
With each bar stocking over 100 varieties of gin, even the most experienced
You will need to set up your own limited company to take the Operator agreement connoisseur is likely to find something new. You will find us located in Blackpool,
for your pub. Aside from staffing costs, all other associated running costs and Bolton, Hereford, Ilkeston, Lancaster, Leicester, Newcastle Under Lyme, Newport,
investment related to your pub are paid by Amber Taverns. You will however be Preston, Swansea, South Shields, Tamworth and Wakefield. We continue to open
responsible for the council tax and tv licence for the private accommodation above new locations throughout the UK.
the site. We also do Gin master-class events at your venue and host other gin events. We
We want you to grow your business, the more your pub takes the better we both do, also offer gin serving trays daily for the gin lovers plus plenty of other options for
it really is a win, win. everyone else. This type of venue is the height of premium variety for everyone.
All our sites are all refurbished to a high standard and operate primarily as wet led, Northern Way
no food. You must hold a personal licence and have relevant experience. Successful
candidates will be given the opportunity to drive the business and identify new This is our newest brand venture in Amber Taverns based around the idea of great
opportunities. Northern hospitality. Our sites are all unique in that they have private karaoke
Amber Taverns uses an Operator agreement which offers you the opportunity of a booths which you can sing to your hearts content – and the other customers can’t
great business with the support and back up of a successful company. hear! With a speciality focus on rums and unique cocktails, we also have a huge
range of drinks to suit all tastes. We serve a great range of beers, lagers and ciders
You will operate a well invested pub, have the ability to sell leading brands at including; Fosters, Carling, John Smiths, Guinness, Strongbow and Dark Fruits.
competitive prices, offer a full commercial Sky and BT Sport package plus regular Our range of Premium Lagers include Birra Moretti, Heineken, and Amstel and
visits and support from your Area Manager. Kronenbourg 1664. A range of local and National Cask Ales is always available. We
Good quality live in accommodation is also provided – all we ask in return is your also offer a full range of Premium Spirits, Malt Whiskies, Perfect Serve Gins and
hard work, live-in commitment and drive to be a great mine host. Cocktails available. We also have a large number of TV’s showing all live sporting
events on Sky Sports, BT Sports and Premier Sports channels and free WIFI. Some
of our sites have fantastic external areas for customers to use any time of the year.
There is another way… the Northern Way!
Who are we looking for? What is the life of an Operator like? Operators roles and responsibilities
– A motivated individual or couple with a personal
licence and experience of running either a managed
Operator Agreement – A new approach to running
community pubs.
Part of the Operator’s roles End of Week Checklist
house or a tenancy
– Amber Taverns offers its Operators the best of both
and responsibilities. Weekly revenue sheet and pink copy.
All banking receipts.
– Your personality, your drive and your ideas to make worlds: the chance to run their own pub business in
Weekly Revenue Sheet All Z reads from tills and PDQ/ATM receipts.
your pub the best in its community a supportive managed house environment without
the financial commitment and onerous lease terms The weekly revenue sheet should be completed on Weekly PDQ Tamper and Inspection Report.
– A responsible attitude to alcohol retailing
of a tenancy. a daily basis. Insert the net sales from the financial All entertainment and petty cash receipts.
– If you are an assistant Manager or an experienced till summary, the amount banked and record the Weekly H&S report.
– What Amber Taverns give you: A well refurbished
member of staff in one of our venues or from daily PDQ amount (bank reconciliation from end of
pub selling leading national brands at great value Toilet check lists.
another pub company please look into our training day report), list any Petty Cash expenses and enter
prices and with a fantastic audio visual package for Any communication or bills sent to site.
programme as another way to become an Operator machine refills daily.
Sky, BT Sport and Racing UK.
with Amber Taverns. AWP Machine collection dockets.
This will enable the Area Manager (AM) to undertake
– Entertainment and Security are budgeted if required Operator Fee Invoice.
a regular cash check.
– Regular support from an Amber Taverns Area opy of Incident reports and associated CCTV
C
Manager who gives you feedback, ideas, promotions Reconciliation recordings (retain a copy on site). AM must check
and contactable 24/7 Ensure that the Management Fee is worked out correctly CCTV copy is clear and concise.
– You will also have access to a dedicated Health and and the float is correct at the end of every week. Door Staff time sheet / invoice.
Safety/Licensing service to ensure that you are fully The House Float should always be correct. Please inform your Area Manager if any of the above
compliant. Personal cash that is kept in the safe would not be items are not included in your weekly envelope or if
insured under the Amber insurance policy. This cash there are any delays in banking or posting envelope.
– Each week you will receive a percentage of each
weeks net turnover so that you are instantly rewarded should be kept in a separate lockable cash box if kept The envelope should be sent by recorded first class post
for your success in building your business. in the safe. – keep the tracking reference if there are any issues.
Any over/under banking should be reconciled the
– Well-presented living accommodation. Operator Fee Invoice
same day and recorded on the cash sheet.
This should be fully completed and include full
Certification company name and registered number, VAT number
Ensure that you sign and date the weekly (if applicable) and the amount claimed. It is a legal
revenue sheet. requirement to have supporting documentation for any
The weekly revenue sheet should be sent to head payments.
The Northern Way, Paisley, Scotland (all images) office following the final banking on Monday morning Meter Readings
(Tuesday following a bank holiday).
Ensure all Gas, Electric and Water meter readings are
Submit an Operator Fee form fully completed
entered onto the weekly sheet, this enables accounts
and signed.
to accrue costs in the unit P&L.
Petty Cash
Enter the petty cash daily and ensure a valid receipt is
sent in the envelope. Without the receipt the amount
will be classed as under-banking, which you will have
to bank.
Daily Sales and Banking Figures
You must text your daily sales and banking figure to
your Area Manager or appointed person at the end of
each day (or before 8.00am the following day).
Under / Over Bankings
Any banking anomalies should be corrected as soon
as notified by the office or Area Manager.
Toilet Check List
This should be completed daily, and a copy sent with
the weekly envelope. Any issues should be noted and
dealt with immediately – the majority of claims are
slips and trips.
Operators roles and responsibilities continued
Glass collector Schedule Internal and external advertising Some outlets require a personal licence holder to CCTV
be on site at key times – you should encourage any
If applicable this should be completed and sent in the All pubs have an internal screen advertising system It is a licensing condition that you check the CCTV
assistants or supervisors to take the personal licence
weekly envelope. called Startle as well as social media support from is working on a daily basis. Any issues should be
course (book via you AM).
One Media. Operators should ensure that Startle is reported immediately to your Area Manager
Incident and Accident Reports Monitoring noise nuisance – regarding sound levels
updated on a regular basis and adopt the guidelines It is important that you regularly test and burn copies
All incident and accidents no matter how small or in the Startle training manual. This is a great way of at the nearest sensitive premises – ensuring windows
of CCTV to disk or usb to verify that the recording
trivial you think they are should be reported and sent driving footfall and maximising sales. Startle can be and doors are closed when entertainment is on.
quality is good, and to ensure you can do it, also
to head office with the relevant CCTV. personalised specifically for your pub using numerous Ensuring that no irresponsible drinks promotions and train any assistant Managers. If the police or relevant
background templates available. Should you require offers are offered to customers. authorities request any footage from the CCTV this
Health and Safety Checklists
bespoke backgrounds, order via your Area Manager. should be provided at the earliest convenience (also
This is an extremely important document and should Note the opening and closing time of the premises and
Social Media that they are strictly adhered to. advise Area Manager).
be fully completed weekly and sent in with the weekly
envelope. All pubs are set up with Facebook, Twitter and Note any specific conditions relevant to your outlet. Maintenance
Instagram. Generic content is uploaded by One Media Any reactive maintenance issues should be reported
AWP Machine Refills If you apply for a TENS ensure that all staff are aware
on a regular basis. For maximum impact bespoke to your Area Manager who will log a call and
All AWP machines must be refilled daily. articles, features, stories, images are always better. of any extra conditions.
ensure the work is prioritised accordingly. Planned
One Media can help you develop these assets. Plan Zero Tolerance maintenance should be discussed at weekly meetings
Stocks
ahead, give them time to create great assets. with your Area Manager.
Stocks are done at each outlet every 4/5 weeks, Amber Taverns Ltd operate a strict zero tolerance
All Operators have access to upload their own content approach to anti social behaviour and drug abuse. All
Venners plan all stocks directly with each Operator in a Housekeeping
especially live videos of events. Operators and their staff should adopt the same zero
strict two-week window. Should you require a holiday
tolerance approach. It is important that standards of housekeeping are
stock please request via your Area Manager. Goods Received maintained to a high standard. This includes ensuring
Operators cannot cancel or change stocks without The Goods Received Book / Back Office should be Serving Drunks that appropriate staffing levels are applied to clean the
AM approval. completed following each delivery. It is an offence to serve a ‘drunk’ person. As an premises and that the bar staff and glass collectors
Operator you and your staff should be aware of your keep the standards high during service. Pay particular
Line Checks The AM will sign off the goods received weekly.
attention to the toilets especially at peak times.
responsibilities and should refuse service.
It is the responsibility of each Operator to do regular Security Personnel
Smoking Quarterly House Audit
line checks and make them available for the Area
Amber Taverns appoint an SIA registered security
Manager on request. Completing weekly/daily line It is an offence for anyone to smoke in the workplace Your Area Manager will conduct a quarterly house
company to provide security personnel to your
checks will ensure that positive yields are maintained. at any time – This includes back of house area audit and inspect all areas of the business including
premises. We enter into a formal contract and
including the office and any staff rooms. the cellar and accommodation/trainee flats – please
Induction Training ensure they hold a valid insurance certificate. It is the
highlight any areas of concern. During the audit the
responsibility of the DPS to ensure that all security Health and Safety Audits
All Operators are required to attend a minimum of two Area Manager will do a full cash count, discuss stocks
personnel they provide are SIA registered and carry
weeks induction training and a day at the Preston and These are completed bi-annually by DF Licensing. The and PandL’s – it’s a great opportunity to discuss
their badge whilst on duty.
Blackpool office to undertake formal training on the audits are booked in advance so take the time to review forthcoming plans and promotions.
weekly paperwork and procedures. From time to time Relevant Authorities your procedures and outlet to ensure you fully comply.
additional training will be required.
You should report any visits by Police, Licensing,
A comprehensive induction booklet for your staff is Trading Standards, HandS or EHO to your Area
available from head office, please ensure all your staff Manager at the earliest convenience.
complete this when appointed.
Any documentation or letters should be forwarded to
Training head office immediately.
New Openings, Sparkles or Refresher Training should Premises Licensing Conditions
be requested by your AM.
Each outlet has a premises licence which is specific to
CPL Training that outlet. The Operator, DPS, Duty Manager and all
personnel should be aware of the conditions within the
You have a legal responsibility to ensure that all your
licence. Particular attention should be paid to:
staff receives adequate training. You should register
all your staff online at CPL to complete all courses Age Verification Policy (All sites should now be
relevant to their position and they also need to Challenge 25).
complete the house Induction Book. Authorisation to serve alcohol form should be
All your staff should complete Age Verification, ALPS completed for all members of staff and signed by the
(SALPS for Scottish sites) and Allergens training and DPS, remember to add new staff as they are recruited.
pass the tests prior to starting work on the bar.
Extra benefits Recruitment process
The Amber family includes all the pub Operators and Regular rewards for the best bar displays or
their staff. To create a real sense of belonging and promotional images, including our customers feature in
community it is important that everyone has a voice; the weekly newsletter FYI. FYI is your newsletter – the
STEP 1
a real say in the direction of your pub, to be honest majority of the content comes from the pubs, reflecting
you are the master/mistress of your own destiny. all the hard work and effort they put in every week.
We encourage open and honest dialogue between the Every pub had a dedicated music system using Bar
Area Managers and the Operators, work through any Beats – pre-set playlists or upgrade to Startle Music Check the website to see any available vacancies or
issues and celebrate the successes. to build bespoke playlists. Startle screens create high fill out the Find Out More questionnaire on our website
quality assets to play on your TV’s – this can include under Recruitment to get in touch with an Area Manager
Your Area Manager is always available for a quick chat
product and sports assets that can be personalised to discuss opportunities with you.
or a thorough business review, the head office team
on site. There is also access to the big game stats and
are only a call away to offer guidance and support.
analysis prior to kick off.
The accounts team will keep you on track with weekly
One Media provide additional support for all your
paperwork and administration.
social media requirements including personalised
The marketing team provide a multitude of resources assets as well as generic posts. They also oversee
on demand – having a Karaoke or live music event? STEP 2
the functionality of the intranet which is a dedicated
Complete the order template and order your posters/ Amber asset to provide easy access to data and
leaflets that will be designed, printed and delivered to compliance tools.
your door.
A dedicated maintenance team are available 24/7 for We would send you more information about
Head office will run a number of promotional activities reactive maintenance – when the electric fails or the Amber Taverns and have a telephone conversation
targeting key days such as St Patrick’s Day, St Georges heating springs a leak help is only one call away, with to see if you are interested in an Interview.
Day and Halloween; plus an advent calendar throughout dedicated out of hours response. There is also a regular
December rewarding customers every day, followed by Sparkle of the estate to keep all pubs in good order.
12 days of Christmas Draw just for our Operators.
If you don’t believe what we are saying – pop into a
Annual incentives run in conjunction with our key brands pub and ask the boss!
that offer prizes to New York or Las Vegas, or simply
STEP 3
cash rewards!
You would then attend an interview with a relevant
Area Manager and then potentially a second interview
with another Area Manager or a Regional Manager.
STEP 4
If we have vacancies you can expect to hear back
as early as 7-14 working days.
STEP 5
We can contact you via phone or email and arrange
to meet at a suitable place in person.
Hear from some of us
Ashley Roberts Neil Houlding
Area Manager Area Manager
Here are some testimonials from
Amber Area Managers, Regional
Managers and Operators.
I have been around Amber Taverns for my whole I started working for Amber Taverns in 2009 as an
working life. I started working at my local pub, The Operator at a small but busy site, in 2013 Amber gave
Gary Roberts Wheatsheaf in Ashton-on-Ribble, when I was 18 me the opportunity to move to open a larger new
Operations Director as part-time bar staff. I left to go to University but site that they had just bought. Amber gave me all the
when I finished my course I was offered work back support that I needed to help prepare the new site for
there. I then heard of a new opening in the town opening helping me recruit staff, train and invest in
centre of Preston, which was going to be a Hogarths them. Amber Taverns uses a great training provider
venue. I worked there as assistant Manager and then CPL to ensure every staff member has all the training
proceeded to take over the venue as Operator when they require and if someone wants to progress their
the Operators left for a new Hogarths venue in Wales. career then Amber are all to happy to help with getting
I ran the site successfully and decided to leave a year people their personal licenses and even have a great
later. Now I am working as an Area Manager for Amber in house residential trainee management program.
Amber was originally founded by a company As the scale of the business increases it leads to more Taverns and absolutely love my job! I have seen all
Amber Taverns is a very progressive company and
called Honeycombe Leisure. I started my career at controls, more bureaucracy, a less personal touch – as sides of the Amber company and how it works from
love to promote from within I started working for my
Honeycombe Leisure as a pub Operator and continued a company all personnel are responsible for keeping the staff to the head office. I think because of my
now regional manger when he was a pub Operator
my journey moving to a position of Area Manager the Amber family mentality at the forefront of what we progression I can do my job much better, offering
and I’m now myself an Area Manager after been
and Marketing Manager. As a senior member of the do. Every pub, every Operator, every Area Manager support to my Operators 24/7. I look after 12 sites
promoted as an Operator, I am currently studying a
management team my role included the development of has a voice and that voice should be heard. It is across Lancashire and the North West and each of
level 5 NVQ which Amber are supporting me with to
Amber Taverns into a separate managed pub estate. important that we not only listen to what is being said, my Operators and venues is unique. I do my best
help further develop my career. Amber are a great
but actually hear it. The continued expansion in 2020 to support my Operators and in turn my Regional
Following a change of ownership Amber started to company to work for who are growing all the time so
has was overshadowed by the Covid-19, but Amber Manager and other key figures at Amber Taverns
trade as an independent company and myself and two there are lots of opportunities to progress.
was steadfast in its approach to be Covid secure and support me in my role. They are currently helping
colleagues took over the primary management roles.
support the whole family. We are positive that the me to complete a level 5 NVQ so I can progress my
My role was Operations Manager, after 12 months future will open up lots of opportunities for a well-run career and open up more opportunities for me. We are
and steady expansion I was appointed to Operations business like Amber. one big family here and feel very lucky to work in this
Director and the main board. fantastic company.
The aim of the company was to organically grow the
company with a steady acquisition and development
of freehold wet led pubs. The core offer was to offer
leading brands and create value for money with high Matt Bainbridge
quality community pubs with a full Sky Sports package. Area Manager
Since 2005 we have increased the estate to over 150
high quality bars and community pubs. An integral
part of the expansion was identifying key personnel
to manage the business on a day to day basis and
support the Operators in the pubs.
We have recruited a number of key head office
personnel from within the ranks of the Operators and
importantly recruited external candidates that have Amber Taverns is the third company I have been an
local knowledge of the areas we have expanded into. Area Manager for and is by far the best. The support
Whilst the core business is that of a managed estate it network in place at all levels is crucial and I truly
is an Amber ethos to always think bottom up and treat believe we are a company that looks after each other.
each pub and Operator independently. The training and development I have been given has
improved my skill set which has then enabled me to
further improve the Operators I oversee.
Amber look after me and in turn I do all I can to make
the company succeed.
Stuart Beale Jon Sellars Paul Storey Jordan Dalzell
Area Manager Area Manager Regional Manager Operator
Having started my career at the age of 18 as a barman/ I came to work for Amber Taverns Ltd as an Area After around 30 years in the hospitality industry, I joined As experience goes, I started from pretty much the
glass collector, I was taken in by the industry. Working Manager around 3 years ago and they’ve been a breath Amber Taverns just over 6 years ago, initially as Area bottom as a glass collector in 2007 for an, at the time,
in my local town pubs I got to learn the ropes very of fresh air to work for. Having worked in the industry Manager covering the North East and for the last 3 another Amber Operator and over a period of 2 years
quickly, and unlike most any other industry, the for over 20 years in all areas of the industry from years as a Regional Manager, covering most of the worked my way up to assistant Manager. One incident
opportunities to succeed and progress are set by your Nightclubs, 5*Hotels, Large National Managed Pub north of England, as well as Wales and Scotland. always sticks with me from back then and probably
own drive and ambition. Companies and other pub companies that use a retail what, at the time, really endeared me to Amber. I was
As the majority of my experience in the trade was gained
agreements-Amber is by far the best. sweeping the front of our premises and our operations
So at the tender age of 19 I became a Manager for the through the traditional managed house mainstream
director arrived to see my then Manager and asked
first time. From there I ran various types of venue from The Company is perfectly placed to offer a great companies, having worked for Allied Domecq Retail,
me to get him. I said I’ll just finish my sweeping and ill
small country pubs in rural England to the city centre experience of running a pub to any future Operator. Scottish & Newcastle Retail, Spirit Pub Co and many
fetch him. Our operations director took my broom and
night spots of the Midlands mainstream. Restaurants others, it was so refreshing to come to a company like
– No Initial Fee to enter finished the job for me, while I went to get him. Now
and sports bars alike every turn was an opportunity to Amber Taverns.
– We take care of the big things-allowing you to focus this could and most likely meant I was doing a terrible
learn and grow.
I say this because, all through my career, from my first job at sweeping, ha-ha, but I prefer to take the lesson
on running a great pub.
In the last 22 years I’ve seen many changes in the roles as a Trainee General Manager, right through to roles of the Amber family and regardless of job or title we’re
industry and experienced many highs and lows. From – Brilliantly appointed pubs that are well maintained as a Divisional Director and Head of Operations with all in this together as much as a cliché as that is.
smoking bans to open trading hours, standing in court – Be an entrepreneur and run your own business the aforementioned ‘big’ companies, each one of those
I got my first opportunity to become an Operator in
having to know the older rules to gain a premises license businesses had a philosophy of ‘putting people first’.
I think the biggest strength to Amber is the size of the 2010, as daunting as the task ahead of me seemed it
through to doing a day course to update my knowledge
business. Not too big not to care (Like most national However, it wasn’t till I joined Amber after almost 30 jumped at the opportunity. There was a steep learning
on new ones, seen recessions and booms, its been an
managed houses and tenanted businesses) and small years, that I truly saw this concept working throughout curve at the age of 21 and not having a Manager to fall
experience at every turn, and one I have enjoyed.
enough to still feel like a family run business which is a whole organisation. And that is what makes Amber back on was an adjustment. I was always assured by
Having started at Amber Taverns as an assistant what we are- ‘The Amber Family’. really different. the fact that those above me had years of experience
Operator, to becoming a long serving Area Manager this in the trade and I always got support from one degree
From Day 1, the focus and ultimately the ongoing success
has truly been the best experience of my career. Having to another.
of this company revolves around its people, totally.
worked for the various companies, I have honestly never
Its amazing to be part of a company where it is Over The last decade I’ve managed four pubs for
worked for a company so in touch with its people and
rare that anyone actually wants to leave. And that Amber and made them my life and family. Its been far
so supportive of their development, yet ready to let them
isn’t because we don’t work hard, or working life is from plain sailing and I’ve had some extreme lows and
walk their own path and try new things. Hence why I am
‘cushy’. No – it’s because everyone across the whole highs too. I’ve seen the best and worst of humanity
still with them 13 years on. I genuinely couldn’t see myself
organisation, from our fantastic Operators who work at and learnt the all-important lesson of never judging
working for another company, as experience has proved
the sharp end in our pubs day to day, right through to a book by its cover. I’ve watched Amber evolve from
it just wouldn’t be the same.
all the Head Office teams are just totally committed to boozers to gin palaces, cocktail bars and much more.
Steve Jobs once said “It doesn’t make sense to hire My role as an Operator has grown exponentially from
helping each other to succeed – and it works!!
smart people and tell them what to do; we hire smart just pulling pints and banking takings to planning
people so they can tell us what to do.” The rapid growth of the company over the last 12/13 large scale events such as blues festivals and freshers
years is testament to that and we will continue on that weeks. I’ve gone from pouring pints to learning the
I think Amber have proven this to be true. For a company
pathway, because our people will make it happen. history of all our products sold, visiting distillery’s
to start as Amber did, grow so rapidly and still be
concerned for the welfare of each of its people, it’s an We have developed and evolved our operating model and being involved in company wide forums to idea
unprecedented situation I’ve never experienced before. over recent years and we are now industry leading in share. Not bad for someone who left school in year 8
Staff and customers alike have always had access to any our approach to Community Wed-Led pubs – which is and achieved only 5 GCSEs, I’ll be eternally grateful
level of help and support they require. A genuine caring for why we not only attract the best experienced Operators, to Amber for every opportunity I have been given
individual situations is constant. Amber have always given but we lead the way in developing talent from within our and hope over the years I’ve repaid some of the faith
their best, and have only asked for the best in return. pubs through our Trainee Operator Programme. shown in me.
I am proud to say I have not updated my CV in 13 years, This programme has proved that age and experience
never considered another role, and despite even the are no barrier to success and we continue to offer
highs and many lows of recent times, I still feel secure great opportunities to anyone with the right customer-
and supported. Not many are able to say that sadly but I focussed attitude and willingness to become part of the
am glad I can. So in conclusion, I’ll be proud to be part of The Drum Winder Amber family – and that sums up our whole philosophy;
the Amber family for many years to come. Amber isn’t just a great company, but a great family.
Kim Drover Julie Kelly Alex Ozobia Martin Davidson
Operator, Duke of Lancaster Operator, The Victory Operator, Hogarths South Shields Operator, King of Prussia
I’m Kim, I started working for Amber Taverns in May I joined Amber Taverns in January 2016. The Victory I’ve been with Amber Taverns for many years now and My journey with Amber has been incredible, I
2016 as a part time bar maid. I enjoyed my experience was my local and I’d never managed a pub for a I’ve not looked back since joining. started out in the Northwest almost 8 years ago
so much I asked if I could progress to my own pub company before but was looking forward to getting to now, I was running my former local watering hole!
At the time of joining Amber I had been in the trade for
and i was welcomed with open arms and admitted to know the different side of not being a free-hold pub. We then got asked if we are happy or would like a
little over 10 years, I was dying to try and get in with
the training programme. I didn’t have a clue, but I initially met Tom Howard. change of scenery-no pressure or obligations which
the company as I had heard so many great things.
He paid me a visit, literally nine days after I made the I jumped at. I have moved around the estate, done
I started the training programme October 2019, in
enquiries about the pub. Tom asked me about myself The opportunity you get with Amber Taverns is swaps with other Operators who have had the same
which I was sent to Hogarths in Tamworth. This was a
what skills I had if I’d worked in the pub trade etc. Then simply unmatched. They work with you and give you inclination and have met friends for life and have
new experience for me as they specialise in Gins and
left for a business meeting in Fleetwood. Two hours everything you could possibly want or need and it’s built up an amazing knowledge of the UK hospitality
Cocktails but I learnt a lot and enjoyed the experience
later he rang me asking if I could meet him at The up to you how you run with it. From the office staff in industry and a great working relationship with Amber
of something new. I spent 2-3 months at Tamworth
Victory the next morning at 9am so I agreed, turned up both Preston and Blackpool all the way up to regional Area Managers, regional mangers and other local
before being moved sites to another pub, this time in
an was met by Tom and Kevin who was a stock-taker at Managers and our operations director; nobody is Operators, it really is like having a massive family!
Ellesmere Port.
that time. One hour and 50 minutes later I was opening unapproachable. If you’ve got a problem for whatever
Having no outgoing costs is a massive bonus, the live
I spent a further 2-3 months in The William Jessop in the doors to MY own regulars. reason it’s like “okay let’s solve this together”. It’s like a
in accommodation has always been amazing and the
Ellesmere Port and loved every minute of it. family. Our Amber family.
I was extremely impressed with the quality of the Area Managers cannot do enough to help and support
Overall the experience was amazing, i learnt pub and the ability in which the training I was shown You don’t work for Amber Taverns you work alongside you, the incentives and rewards are amazing and as
everything I needed to progress to my own pub. All enabled me to crack on and open to the public two each other which is fantastic I think. You really get out for the full package you receive-its second to none, we
the staff, Operators and management teams were very hours after entering. what you put into it. have security supplied, a full sky sports package and
supportive and helpful throughout and they continue state of the art entertainment system, all Amber have
I was supplied with all the paperwork and training too. You meet with your Area Manager every week and
to help now that I have my own pub. ever asked is for easily achievable yields and you are
Not only in person but also online. I was shown how to we’ll discuss sales figures like you would with any
On April 1st 2020 I took over at the Duke of Lancaster other Area Manager but we’ll get together and instantly rewarded at the end of each weeks trade, I left
order my stock and do daily checks on the pub. I took
in Colne, and I’m enjoying being a part of the brainstorm ideas and throw ideas back to each other for 2 years to concentrate on having a family and was
on four staff whom were also eligible to train with the
management team at Amber Taverns. to make sure we’re always ahead of the competition. welcomed back to the Amber family with open arms
online courses. Any maintenance issues were dealt with
We’re always thinking of innovative ideas. I actually and the same safety and support that I was used to.
The whole experience has been exciting and an by Amber. If something was broken or wasn’t working
all I had to do was ring up and report it and Amber got look forward to my weekly meetings ha. I can honestly say that returning was one of the best
eye opener- its a lot of hard work, blood, sweat and
tears but definitely worth it in the end. The support I the work completed. Looking back I’ve been so fortunate on my Amber decisions that we made as a family and as long as we
received was endless and as i said previous it is still journey so far and I can’t wait to see just how far we work with Amber our hard work and effort is always
Throughout my time here at Amber Taverns I must
continuing. go and what’s on the horizon after this tragic year of rewarded and supported by a great company from the
admit they supply and provide everything I need to
2020 due to Covid. I’ve flourished and progressed top right down to the Area Managers with whom we
Thanks Again Amber Taverns for the opportunity and make the business trade. From sports to promotions.
so much over the years as has Amber. I think we’re liaise with on a regular basis.
experience. From supplies to advice. There really isn’t anything
missing and there’s always my Area Manager Ashley both so ambitious, motivated and target driven which
should I have any concerns. My accommodation is makes 2021 a very exciting year ahead.
beautifully done. I don’t have any bills except my TV I couldn’t recommend Amber enough to anyone that’s
licence. Amber cover all utilities. maybe on the fence. My advice would be jump in with
Throughout 2020 we have been in some unforeseeable both feet, give 100% of yourself and you’ll simply reap
circumstances due to Covid-19 and I can honestly say the rewards.
Amber Taverns have been 100% behind us helping us Take that leap of faith.
through these very difficult times. Financially, mentally
an wholeheartedly I wouldn’t have got through without
them and their team.
A good point about working for Amber is that with their
support and your hard work you can make a great start,
build up regulars, build friendships and succeed. It’s
like a fairy-tale if you close your eyes. For 14 years The
Victory was just a fairy-tale to me. I walked past it every
day wishing I could be THE BET LYNCH and now and
for over 3 years I have been.
Ann Marie Nairn Josh and Amy Dot Green Tom and Deb Pearson
Operator, The Old Post Office, Operators, Tubwell Tap Operator, Roebuck Operators, Caledonian
Coatbridge
My name is Ann Marie Nairn my journey in hospitality We have both been Operators for a year now, we first My name is Dot and I’ve been part of Amber Taverns Where do I begin?
started 29 years ago started out part time in a local both worked at Hogarth’s South Shields as staff and since 2005. I have been in three different pubs, one of
I’ve always been involved in the Hospitality Industry.
pub working mainly weekends, loved it so much I quit then got put forward for the trainee Operators Course them twice. And can say I have thoroughly enjoyed all
I left school in 1983 and went straight into employment
my main job to work full time in Hospitality. Within 2 by our then boss Martin. The trainee course was of them. Some of the challenges, I have faced have not
with Vaux Breweries until it closed in 1999. Everyone
years of doing this I was promoted to Manager and perfect for getting to where we wanted to be career all been easy, but all the team at Amber have always
knew everybody like a big family from the MD to the
this I done for another 5 years before leaving and wise. It meant we got to take on our own pub without been there when I’ve needed support. They always
shop floor.
moving to the Highlands of Scotland to become a having to wait years and climb different positions, it welcome new ideas, however unusual.
Hotel Manager. Since then I have never looked back was a big step going from a supervisory type role into I lived in South Shields and socialised in Last Orders.
I myself am very patriotic, and everyone at Amber
working for JD Wetherspoons for 6 years as a Pub a management but Amber and the Trainee Manager The Manageress at the time was booking a holiday
embraces this, along with all other events going on
Manager then making way in helping the New Openings was so supportive and give us all the skills and and asked me if I would like to do the relief at the pub,I
throughout the year. We like to celebrate everything.
Team with them. courses we needed to gain this and we learnt lots. agreed. A couple of weeks later she asked me if I
I consider the customer as a no. 1 priority to my
would like to run the pub again, with a twist this time!
I then took a couple of years out to have my three Amber have been so supportive and given us a business and like to involve them in all celebrations,
She had been given a opportunity to run another new
beautiful girls although still helping out my old boss chance and believed in us even with us both being just Amber help me in doing this. The Amber Team, always
Amber site. We agreed on taking up the opportunity
whom started me in the business. When my kids in our early twenties where other companies would at encourages you to use your full potential no matter how
on 17/3/2012. After two successful years we were
were babies, I spent a couple of years part time being least want years of experience in management before silly, I sometimes wonder, who is the most silliest, us
given another opportunity to run a new Amber site in
a Recruitment Consultant although it was a great even thinking about putting you forward for the role. the Operators or the upper management. I definitely
Carlisle (Caledonian) 17/3/2014. We love Paddy’s day!
experience, it wasn’t behind a Bar or a Hotel. agree a sense of humour is needed.
Amber give you all the tools and support you need for
Amber Taverns staff from the MD to the shop floor
Leaving this job, I then moved to Whitbread to take running your own business via allocated budgets and Anyone deciding to work for Amber taverns, will find
remind me of my earlier days at Vaux in every way.
on operations role in which I ran multiple Premier Inn support via your Area Manager who is very supportive it a different way of working. Yes it’s a way of life, not
Amber have moved on heels in the years I have
Hotels. Seven years later they were making cuts and and is always there to advise should a problem just a job, and yes you can have tough days. But it’s
been with them,they introduce good incentives with
our role was made redundant. I found a job with Zonal arise. Running your own Amber site gives you all the also as brilliant as what you put into it. That’s why I
good rewards and good training for new starters
Epos as a Hospitality Trainer, great job doing something benefits and finical incentive of running a leasehold consider Amber Taverns my family.
and existing staff. I have recommended a few new
I loved training people on operating new till systems site but without the financial constraints of running a
Operators and trainees and never looked back. I would
and general bar training, I was working all over Britain, managed house.
look no further than the big family (Amber Taverns) for
although I loved the job this was beginning to take its
The best thing about the job for both of us two is it any future Operators or trainees.
toll, so I looked for something local.
beats any 9-5 office job, its hard work and the hours
This is when my journey started with Amber Taverns can be long but the rewards and patter is worth it. Jeff
they had bought a local post office in my home town, is very supportive no matter how silly a question may
so I did a bit of digging and found out the background be. Typically weekend nights are fast paced and week
and applied for the Job of Operator back in 2019, after days are good as you get a sense of community just by
a few interviews I had the job, ecstatic to say the least opening your doors each day and seeing your regulars.
as I was back in pubs in my home town, watching
closely as the refurb was being done and working in
one of the sister pubs for a few weeks to train and find
the Amber ways.
November 7th and my pub is on its way to opening I
had recruited my team going forward and Amber had
supported myself with a Trainer and Health and Safety
personnel within this week to make sure we were
all set. November 13th and the doors are opened,
constantly having support from my Area Manager and
above. Not long after this I won Operator of the month
which to me was a huge achievement. I have had a
few great jobs in Hospitality but this one feels like
being part of the Amber family and the pub actually
feels like my own. I can stand proud of what I have
achieved but feel this one is the right fit.Nick Teather Tracy Mooney Steve and Linda Mark and Jenny
Operator, The Oxford 109 Operator, The Metropole Operators, The Northern Way, Operators, Black Swan
Bolton
I have been with Amber Taverns for over 3 years I’ve worked for Amber Taverns since February 2017. We have worked with Amber Taverns for two Through the great support and great Area Manager
now and can honestly say it has been a pleasure. years and 10 months. Our experience with Amber relationships we are about to go into our 5th year with
They work with the Managers and help us grow our
From the start you are offered support to build your Taverns is impeccable we find them very supportive, the Amber family!
business and provide all the tools to promote and
business and grow as an Operator, you will receive approachable and a great Company to work for.
expand our training program. We love all the great tools provided to help us run
training and work within some of the most stylish and
They make you feel part of a team very reassuring a successful business. There are always multiple
refurbished sites and gain extra knowledge on the way Amazing company to work with.
in all our endeavours. In all our years in the licensing incentives to help us push the business that little
with support from the Area and Regional Managers
trade we have never felt more comfortable and further.
if you are willing to put in the hard work then the
opportunities are endless. supportive. From the office to the cellar everything is We look forward to many more great years with
covered with great satisfaction. Amber Taverns.
Health and Safety, staff training, cocktail courses, gin
training, stock taking, marketing, social media nothing
is left out.
A great company to work for thank you for the opportunity.
Sophie Kerr Elisha Ferneyhough Marie Ormondroyd
Operator, Harry Pursey Operator, The Bull’s Head Operator, Sun Inn
I have been a part of the Amber Taverns team for 4 Amber Taverns have supported me from the start on I have been an Operator for Amber Taverns at the Sun
years now. I had been bar staff for 2 years when the this incredible journey, the job is rewarding and no day Inn for over 10 years. I have found the support from
opportunity to take over as Operator came my way. is ever the same. I’ve learnt so much and meeting so everyone at Head Office to be first class and nothing
Although I was nervous as it is would be my first pub many wonderful people and experiencing so much, is too much for them.
and the thought of running of it alone seemed daunting I’ve grown professionally and personally and I’ve
Although we are part of a big company it still feels like
it was too good an opportunity to miss out on. I had a built a incredible team and it’s better because of the
we are part of a family. We have guidelines to adhere
meeting with Ambers Area Manager who completely continued involvement and support I have received
to but there is a fair bit of autonomy for us to develop
put my mind at rest, he answered all my questions from Amber Taverns. On a personal note they have
our business ourselves and our staff.
and assured me Amber would provide all the support I gone out of their way to boost my self esteem and
needed. He was indeed right, I received all the support it makes you believe in yourself, making memories I have been in the trade many years before finding
and help I needed to grow a successful business. everyday is the biggest reward and the incredible Amber Taverns and can honestly say it is the best
Two years later and although we are all going through people that help you achieve it. The Managers, the Company I have worked for, in fact I wish I found it
a tough time at the minute Amber have continued to teams, staff, customers, family and friends, we are a a lot sooner.
support us all the way through the pandemic. I have huge family and pub life chose me.
really enjoyed my time working with Amber and hope to
continue working with them for the foreseeable future.
We are a great team with a great future.John-Ogilvie Sara & Barry Jack and Sade Donna Yates
Current Trainee Current Trainees Current Trainees Current Trainee
I joined Amber’s trainee scheme in October 2019, After many years I worked within the corporate arena We both worked in different hospitality venues The Amber Taverns training program is an excellent and
after interviews with regional and my soon to be Area as a Sales Manager heading up large teams for the throughout our adult life. We both started out as part exciting way to further your knowledge and skills in the
Manager, I began my journey at Northern Way, Paisley. B2B sector and Barry also in Sales but more around time bar staff to cover weekends and started to move industry. I have gained my personal license and have
Amber’s first of three Scottish sites to open that year. the B2C sector, we had come to a crossroads in what up the ranks wherever possible. After progressing to almost completed an SQA management course at the
we saw our future looking like and really wanted to start management positions in both Wetherspoons and same time as learning everything I am going to need to
During this time I was assisted in setting up my own
something of our own and work together as a team. It BrewDog we both felt as though we wanted to achieve hopefully be an Operator for the company soon.
limited company for the future and immediately began
just so happened that we were friends with a couple more. This is when we found the Amber Taverns trainee
the training programme, even to me with over 11 years I have been placed with an Operator who is teaching me
who had been Operators for Amber Taverns for many programme. After looking over the relevant information
management and hospitality experience, it did feel hands-on the day-to-day running of a pub and have also
years and I approached them to find out what this we decided to enrol.
daunting at first. My Area Manager and me spoke in been sent to other sites to gain outside knowledge and
whole ‘Operator’ thing was about. They gave me all the
depths about strengths and weaknesses, with one Our first training venue was in Hogarths Stafford training from other Operator’s, all the Operator’s and
Pros and Cons and after a meeting with Mick Walsh we
being cask ales, I received in-depth training online with our new Trainer/Manager Steve. We had a very my Area Manager are always there to help guide and
found ourselves embarking on the trainee programme
and on-site and was tasked with running, promoting, friendly welcome upon arriving with a few drinks and a motivate me to be able to be a vital member of the team.
for Amber Taverns.
cleaning and purchasing within set parameters. This run down of what to expect over our time here. Steve
I am looking forward to the next step in my career with
built my confidence of the products up massively. We have had a roller-coaster of a ride as we decided to started training us from the moment we arrived which
Amber Taverns.
train during Covid, that said we have both learnt more was brilliant. Whether working on bar, in the cellar, back
I was also lucky enough to get the opportunity to
about ourselves over the last 12 months than at any office or just having a drink downstairs there is always
head to England and gain valuable experience in their
time throughout our careers. We started our training in an opportunity to learn. Many of the topics learnt would
Hogarths brand, in Lancaster and Leicester. With
a ‘Boozer’ and moved into the brand leading Hogarths be valuable not only in our workbooks and folders but
Amber’s emphasis on customer service and product
knowledge this was an incredible opportunity to learn
where we learnt so much that we are able to take and also useful tips and tricks to understand and implement How to apply
implement into our new venue. All the lessons that we in our own venue. Our training has been mainly
and hone your skills. The company also putting me
learnt at Hogarths to improve, not just our business, over national lockdown which hasn’t been the best.
through my English personal license, costs covered. Please see our Trainee Operator
but our general appeal to the wider customer taste However, this has not stopped us training and we have
The accommodation provided is always of the highest Prospectus for more information
and demographic are priceless. As we had decided still been working most days gaining an understanding
standard and provides you with a further platform to about the progression into
that we would like to start our journey with Amber of running a business including creating events,
learn and live the life of an Operator! I have been offered being an Operator.
in a Community Pub to cut our teeth we ended our maintenance, and back office systems.
the chance of two new sites due to open, with my Area training at a very large community pub in Ellesmere
We feel this training programme is accessible and takes
Manager even taking me and my girlfriend away for the Port. Here we learnt so much from the Operator who
a comprehensive approach to ensure all training is
night to check out our future site and area. had the patience of a saint and taught us both the
achieved at a high standard. We would recommend this
I was also enrolled on a Hospitality Management finer details of running our own business. The support
programme to anyone who would like to progress in
apprenticeship, which has been incredible for my and knowledge that you receive as a trainee in Amber
this industry.
personal development, and again shows the level of Taverns Trainee Programme is second to none and you
care Amber take for their trainees and Operators. are never left ‘wondering if you got it right’. You know
that you are in safe hands and although the business
I’ve been on the scheme now for around 15 months, is growing Year on Year it still has a family feel about
mainly down to lockdown restrictions, and can say, it and the other Operators that also work with Amber
I’ve worked for independents, industry leaders and the Taverns in other venues are always there to help and
largest bar chain in the UK, Amber Taverns is the only advise. If you were thinking about coming into this
hospitality company I’ve ever felt truly appreciated. industry or even taking your next steps in the Hospitality
My area and Regional Managers are both the greatest sector and wanted a company to work within we would
mentors I’ve ever had and under their leadership I’ve recommend Amber Taverns without reservation – an
never felt more assured and confident in my own future absolutely spot on company to work with!
and what we can achieve together.Round App The UK’s favourite table service app. Order and pay at your table at most of our pubs! We introduced the Round App in 2020 and our customers love it. We create a menu bespoke to your pub and we can put on offers, freebies and deals specific to your pub! Less waiting for your customers and the chance to get more orders! This gives you more time to spend with your valued customers.
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