Stonegate and BrewDog share a culture of “restlessness and curiosity”, alongside an ability to “move at pace despite scale,” according to Stonegate CEO David McDowall.

Speaking at MCA’s Pub Conference earlier this week, the former BrewDog COO was asked about how his past experience had contributed to his current role with the UK’s largest pub company.

“Stonegate continues to be a forward thinking, innovative business, always asking what’s next,” he told delegates.

McDowall further discussed how Stonegate’s strategy has evolved since his time with the company. The group launched the MiXR app last year, fast-tracking its digital evolution through an enhanced ability to harness customer data, according to the CEO.

“There’s lots of innovation on concept development as well,” he added. “We’re making sure our brands and formats remain relevant.

“We’ve also changed the way we work together by having as much diversity of thought as possible.”

This means remaining actively involved in the Leased & Tenanted business, as well as placing female role models front and centre.

“We’ve also made intentional decisions not to hire from the pub sector, instead bringing in different thoughts and experiences from different businesses.”

McDowall further emphasised the business continues to have momentum, despite challenges across the wider industry in past years.

“It’s been a tough and volatile market for all of us,” he said. “I’m proud of the way our teams have thrown themselves into it. We have momentum despite everything thrown at us.”

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