Harrogate brewery acquires Leeds restaurant following successful portfolio expansion

The Black Sheep Brewery plc has expanded its retail estate with the acquisition of popular bar and restaurant Kith & Kin from Arc Inspirations.

In four months, the Masham-based brewery has increased its retail portfolio to six sites across Yorkshire with the purchase of the Chapel Allerton, Leeds-based establishment.

The existing Kith & Kin workforce will be retained, with all 18 employees transferred to Black Sheep, as part of the deal.

This latest acquisition by Black Sheep builds on the successful purchase of York Brewery and four of its pubs in December 2018.

Andy Slee, chairman of The Black Sheep Brewery plc, said: “We are delighted with the acquisition of Kith & Kin, which follows the successful purchase of York Brewery last year.

“Kith & Kin fits perfectly with our strategy of developing our retail presence in our Yorkshire heartland and is a welcome addition to our growing group of pubs and bars.”

Arc Inspirations is a long-established bar and restaurant operator with several sites across the North of England. Ben Lamb of law firm Clarion advised Arc Inspirations.

Rob Theakston, managing director of The Black Sheep Brewery plc, added: “Kith & Kin is a thriving bar with a solid food trade located in the heart of Yorkshire.

“We are also excited to introduce a wider range of quality cask and craft ales from our award-winning range of brands. Kith & Kin has traded successfully for many years and we are proud and looking forward to welcoming the team into our flock.”