Built on Partnership (Dram article)

Unlocking growth through the right business partnerships

Launching a new concept is never simple and bringing them to life takes the right collaboration.

When seasoned operators behind a successful Glasgow-based hospitality group were ready to bring a new Scottish concept to life – they partnered with Star Pubs, building on a partnership rooted in understanding of the development and business direction, providing expert support across design and operations.

For Derek Mallon, Managing Director of Lomond Leisure Group, it wasn’t just about ticking boxes, it was working with the right people to help navigate common pitfalls and bring together great people to bring visions to life.

Highly experienced in the hospitality sector, having spent 14 years with The Restaurant Group, Derek began his journey in 2017 with the opening of Van Winkle.

Operating five hospitality venues in Scotland, Lomond Leisure Group then transformed Van Winkle bar on Sandyford Place in Glasgow with Star Pubs, into Gael & Grain, evolving its concept and adapting to international trade by celebrating Scottish food, drink and music. The original Van Winkle in Gallowgate is still going strong, and business is better than ever.

“We’ve worked hard to create a welcoming, locally rooted atmosphere that appeals to our international audience. Comedy nights have become a big part of our operations – we currently host it three nights a week and are aiming for seven. The venue also doubles as a space for private events, giving us real flexibility to cater to a host of events such as Christmas parties, corporate events and other private functions.”

Behind this revamp, was creating a flexible venue space that now hosts weekly comedy shows and private events, to showcasing local Scottish produce at its best to international tourists, their vision was brought to life through a true partnership.

“Star Pubs are incredibly helpful, and truly invested in your success,” the operator shared. “Working with them gave us access to properties we may not have been able to secure as independents. More than that, the support from their team, from investment to project design and operational insight, has been exceptional. They’re not just ticking boxes, they genuinely care about helping operators avoid industry pitfalls and succeed.”

Now running a business with 100+ team members and eyeing future venues, Derek prides the business on being on built on a loyal workforce.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have a team of loyal people who have been with us for some period of time, and for us, what makes us stand out and continue to thrive is our people. We’ve grown from a team of 6 to over 100 over the years. It’s fantastic for us to see that our people view themselves as part of the business and we very much work together as a team.”