Expansion for Black Country Ales following latest acquisition

Black Country Ales has expanded its portfolio of pubs after purchasing The Seven Stars in Stourbridge.

The Dudley-based brewery now plans to invest significantly in a refurbishment of the premises with the aim of restoring the Victorian-era pub to its former glory in time for a Christmas re-opening.

The search has also begun for a publican to run the premises, which will eventually feature at least 15 hand pumps, serving a range of Black Country Ales’ own beers, including BFG, Pig on the Wall, and Fireside, which are crafted five miles away at its brewery.

Graham Manwaring, head of pubs at Black Country Ales, which already has over 30 pubs throughout the West Midlands and Shropshire, said: “The classic Victorian inn has been a very popular part of Stourbridge’s drinking scene for many years both with thirsty locals and also railway passengers winding down on the way home.

“Work has already begun on a sensitive refurbishment of the pub, and will include a significant spend to return The Seven Stars to its former pomp.

“We expect the work to take several months, during which we are searching for cheerful and hard-working publicans to ensure the venue will be up and trading in time for Christmas.

“There is a real intention to make this a hub of the community where real ales and conversation are the stars of the show.”

The sale was handled by Amy Potter, surveyor at the Birmingham office of licensed property specialist James A Baker.

Richard Tole, director at James A Baker, said: “This is great news for Stourbridge, and seeing the venue restored to its former Victorian glory should bring in new clients, and increase trade.”