Private equity firm behind Bella Italia acquires pub group

Epiris, the owner of the restaurant group which oversees brands including Bella Italia and Las Iguanas, has acquired Blackpool-based freehold pub operator Amber Taverns.

The private equity firm has made the deal through its Epiris Fund III, which also invests in funeral firm Pure Cremation.

Amber Taverns was founded in 2005 by chief executive James Baer and operates 178 freehold, wet-led pubs, predominantly in the north of England, the Midlands, Scotland and Wales.

Baer said: “We are excited to enter the next growth phase in partnership with Epiris, who invested the time and effort to understand our business and what makes an Amber pub. We are confident that they can support us in our ambitious expansion plans.”

Bill Priestley, managing partner at Epiris, said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to work with James and his team to execute a strategy of investment and growth that will build on the fantastic platform they have created.”

Ian Wood, partner and head of the investment team at Epiris, said: “Amber has a firm and clear focus on value and service, with a broad product range served at competitive prices in community settings with a strong entertainment offering. This has enabled it to grow consistently, delivering industry-leading financial performance and taking share in the large and resilient pubs market.”