Hydes names hospitality veteran as new chairman

Salford-based independent brewer and pub retailer Hydes has appointed Peter Borg-Neal as its new chairman as the business continues to focus on its long-term growth.

Peter succeeds Richard Lancaster, who is stepping down after leading the business through the post-pandemic period and a period of record turnover. 

He brings more than 40 years of experience across hospitality and consumer-facing sectors, including founding Oakman Inns and growing the business into a 32-site premium pub group.

His previous leadership experience also includes senior roles at Whitbread plc and Allied Domecq Retailing, and he currently works as principal advisor at Ascott Advisory.

Peter said: “I have always been a traditionalist at heart, and I firmly believe that the relationship between a brewery and its pubs is one of the defining characteristics of our industry. 

“Hydes has been family-owned for more than 160 years and represents a vital part of that heritage. 

“I am immensely proud to become chairman, and I see it as a key responsibility to help ensure Hydes remains a strong, proudly independent family business for generations to come.”

Peter added: “Richard Lancaster joined just before the pandemic and, alongside the executive team, guided Hydes through an incredibly challenging environment with great skill and discipline. 

“The business has emerged financially strong, well-organised, and with a clear sense of purpose. 

“My first responsibility is to preserve that stability. 

“Over the coming months, I intend to listen, learn, and fully understand the business before helping to shape the next phase of Hydes’ success.”

Established in 1863, Hydes operates 44 pubs across the North West of England and North Wales, alongside its brewing facility in MediaCity.

Adam Mayers, managing director of Hydes Brewery, added: “On behalf of the entire board and the family shareholders, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to Richard Lancaster for his immense contribution to Hydes over the years. 

“His steady leadership and governance rigour provided crucial stability during a period of unprecedented industry disruption, leaving the company on an exceptionally firm financial footing.

“Peter is a very well-respected figure in the UK hospitality sector and brings an extraordinary wealth of operational and strategic expertise. 

“His deep understanding of values-driven, independent businesses makes him the perfect fit for Hydes as we leverage our strong capital position to invest wisely, support our people, and deliver the high standards our customers expect.”

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