Tom Kerridge expresses support and concern for Jeremy Clarkson's new pub venture

Wednesday, July 3, 2024

Chef Tom Kerridge is looking forward to jeremy Clarkson providing insights into the art of managing a pub as he embarks on his new endeavor.

Kerridge, proprietor of The Hand and Flowers - the first pub to hold two Michelin stars, expressed optimism yet concern for Clarkson's latest business endeavor. 

Clarkson recently purchased The Windmill in Oxfordshire for under £1 million, intending to revamp it with his own Hawkstone lager and produce from Diddly Squat Farm.

The Windmill, nestled on five acres of countryside near Burford, will also offer a wedding venue as part of Clarkson's plans to transform the establishment.

Kerridge, appreciating the challenges of the hospitality sector, urged Clarkson to bring attention to these difficulties in a manner similar to his successful farming endeavors.

Speaking on ITV's Good Morning Britain, Kerridge acknowledged that running a pub is "very, very difficult," with tiny profit margins, particularly for wet-led establishments.

He advocated for a reduction in VAT for the hospitality industry to help businesses grappling with financial pressures.

The challenges Clarkson faces are not unique to him; many publicans contend with a multitude of issues, from outdated facilities to stringent regulations.

'There is some work to be done on the pub itself'

Jeremy Clarkson

As Clarkson embarks on his latest business endeavor, transforming The Windmill into a thriving pub, Kerridge's words of encouragement carry significant weight. Operating a pub involves an intricate web of challenges that require careful navigation, from managing staff and inventory to adhering to regulations and maintaining financial viability. With Kerridge's extensive experience in the hospitality sector, particularly as the proprietor of the first pub to hold two Michelin stars, he is uniquely qualified to offer guidance and support as Clarkson navigates this complex world.

Armed with his signature sarcasm and tenacity, Jeremy Clarkson is prepared to delve deep into the labyrinthine world of pub ownership at The Windmill, offering an intriguing perspective on the trials and tribulations that come with managing such a business.