A BREWERY has announced its "ambitious plans" as part of a major expansion.

Brew York has acquired three new pubs - including one in Guiseley and another in Otley - in agreement with operator Market Town Taverns.

The brewery added that they are looking to add a further five venues to their portfolio over the next few years.

Otley's The Horse & Farrier and Coopers in Guiseley - along with The Mitre, Knaresborough - are the three Brew York will be taking over later this month.

The brewery says each is established and well-appointed, so they won't be making significant changes.

Brew York beers will become the bar offer – across traditional hand-pull cask and keg, including lager – and their street food offer will also be introduced.

With the expansion on the cards for a while, towards the end of 2023, John Hoe was appointed as Bar Operations Director.

Mr Hoe brings extensive experience within retail and operations across multi-site pubs and bars, including former roles with Camerons and Black Sheep.

Brew York Managing Director, Wayne Smith adds “We’ve now developed four solid Brew York venues that all offer a dynamic craft beer experience and we’ve realised a key opportunity to further strengthen and grow the business in this area.”

“We’re confident that John’s expertise will be a great asset as we embark on this project, and with him working alongside our existing highly experienced teams across the venues, brewery, and head office, we’re excited to further hone our craft and spread our wings. John has been instrumental in making the Market Town Tavern (MTT) opportunities a reality via his impressive contact network and the MTT team has been really helpful in making the process run smoothly. We hope to work closely with them in the future.”

Oliver Reece, managing director of Fresh Thinking Advisory, said: “Wayne and Lee bring a passion for craft beer and great customer service to Brew York. With new growth and working capital facilities in place, the business has the flexibility to move quickly when looking to secure new sites and drive the overall growth strategy.”

“It’s great to be able to support the business and enable the next stage of their journey by helping the team find the right long-term funding partner.”

As part of the venue expansion programme, the existing four Brew York bars in York (Walmgate and Osbaldwick), Pocklington, and Leeds city centre have also had opening times extended with further enhancements planned.