Business studies lessons from Britain’s best pub

Step aside Heston Blumenthal and his pub (The Hinds Head in Bray). The couple who have invested their heart and soul into a pub near Hull have awarded the Michelin Guide’s coveted pub of the year award.

This article in the Telegraph takes us behind the scenes at The Pipe and Glass Inn in South Dalton, and there are some useful lessons for business students to pick up from the success of James and Kate Mackenzie. I jotted down the following (I’m sure your students will pick up some better points):

Product specialisation - “refined, yet hearty” - is a USP or point of differentiation; product is closely aligned to customer needs (“where we are and what we are”)

Value-for-money pricing

High quality customer service - “warmth of the welcome; friendliness of the staff”)

High level of investment (retained profits) back into the business

A passion for the business despite a relative lack of experience

Expanded product range - to include accommodation & private dining & takeaway for the locals!