Market Halls has appointed Gavin George, founder and former CEO of the Laine Pub Company, to its board as a non-executive director.
George co-founded Laine and led the pub and brewing business for almost 30 years before stepping down last year.
His appointment follows Market Halls’ recent growth, including the opening of a new site in Paddington and its acquisition of Shelter Hall in Brighton in March, taking the group’s estate to five food halls. It plans to double its estate over the next three years.
Esat Kolege of backer Gees Court Partners said: “Gavin’s appointment to the board brings extensive hospitality expertise and a forward-thinking approach, which we feel will be invaluable as we focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences and continue our expansion programme across the UK.”
George said: “The founder, Andy Lewis-Pratt, and his team have built an exceptional business and I’m delighted to be invited to join at a pivotal moment to provide support and guidance as the business sees significant growth and expansion. The discovery, choice and accessibility that Market Halls offers its customers and the potential that the food hall environment brings to the supercharging of that experience, is a very exciting proposition to me.”
The move reunites George with former Laine managing director Dan Hills, who was appointed Market Halls MD and CEO designate in July. Hills said: “I had the good fortune to work with Gavin for 25 years, so I know how much value he can add in helping shape our strategy and in supporting our team in the decisions that significantly impact the direction of the business.”
George also holds non-executive and advisory roles with Punch Pubs & Co and The Revel Collective, is a trustee of Team Domenica, and sits on the councils of UKHospitality and the British Beer & Pub Association.
