EP. 146 DAVID MCDOWALL: FROM BREWDOG TO STONEGATE CEO
06/25/24 • 63 min
In this episode, Mark McC visits Soho to meet with David McDowell, former COO and President of Brewdog and current CEO of Stonegate, the UK's largest pub group. The conversation covers David's journey since joining Stonegate, the challenges he's faced, and the strategic changes he's implemented.
They also discuss the importance of pub culture, shifting consumer behaviours, and maintaining value through thoughtful pricing strategies. The episode highlights how David's leadership aims to fuse traditional pub values with modern innovations, ensuring sustainable growth and community engagement.
About Guest
David McDowell is the CEO of Stonegate Group, the largest pub company in the UK. With a career spanning significant leadership roles in the beverage and hospitality industries, McDowell is known for his strategic acumen and innovative approach to business. Before joining Stonegate, he served as the COO and President of Brewdog, where he was instrumental in driving the craft beer company's exponential growth and international expansion.
At Stonegate, McDowell oversees an extensive portfolio of pubs and bars, focusing on sustaining traditional pub values while embracing modern trends and consumer behaviours. Under his leadership, Stonegate has navigated the complexities of the UK pub market, implementing strategic changes to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency. McDowell places a strong emphasis on community engagement, thoughtful pricing strategies, and sustainable growth, ensuring that Stonegate not only thrives economically but also maintains its role as a cornerstone of local communities.
Stonegate Group: https://www.stonegategroup.co.uk/
David's LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/davidmcdowallglasgow
This podcast is sponsored by NFS Hospitality.
About NFS Hospitality:
With over 20 years of experience solving problems for restaurateurs, NFS Hospitality truly understands your challenges as a hospitality operator.
Whether you’re looking for top-notch POS & CRM systems, effective loyalty programs, the tools to execute powerful marketing campaigns, or a reliable Point of Sale system, NFS Hospitality has you covered with an end-to-end technology solution.
At NFS, we know every hospitality business is unique, and that’s why we’ve walked in your shoes time and again to deliver effortless, tailored technology solutions designed for your specific needs.
Our world-class technology puts the user at the heart of every transaction, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience for you, your teams, and your guests.
Leading hospitality operators like BrewDog, Gaucho, and Archie’s trust NFS to provide the technology that makes their operations run smoothly across all verticals. NFS knows what it takes to help both your team and your guests have a world-class experience with our solutions.
And with 24/7 support from actual humans, you can always rely on NFS day or night.
Visit http://nfs-hospitality.com/supersonic to speak to the experts at NFS today. You can also download insights and guides on how to leverage technology to grow your business.
Our Silver Sponsors are:
Airship and Toggle:
Airship is a data-driven CRM for the hospitality industry. Restaurants, bars, hotels, and pubs can use Airship to email marketing and create personal relationships with their customers.
Check out https://airship.co.uk/ for more information.
Saved by Robots:
Saved by Robots are passionate about creating compelling brands and memorable experiences through great design, engaging storytelling and genuine authenticity.
Visit Savedbyrobots.com to get in touch
About Mark Mcc:
Mark McCulloch is one of the leading food, drink and hospitality brand and marketing minds in the world. Mark has over twenty years brand, marketing, digital and social media experience holding senior and board-level positions at lastminute.com, Barclaycard, YO! Sushi and Pret A Manger. Mark co-founded multi-award-winning brand and marketing agency WE ARE Spectacular in 2012 which is still going strong today. Mark is now fulfilling his lifelong ambition to live and work by the sea in Brighton where he is a Virtual Chief Marketing Officer and Brand Strategist for the best hospitality, tech and B2B brands in the UK and beyond. Mark is also a popular thought leader, speaker and broadcaster, the highlight of which being in 2018 when Mark began podcasting and his Mark McC Supersonic Food Marketing podcast hosting guests including the greatest digital mind in the world Gary Vaynerchuk plus music legends Fatboy Slim and Alan McGee (the man who discovered rock band Oasis). Mark’s podcast has been d...
In this episode, Mark McC visits Soho to meet with David McDowell, former COO and President of Brewdog and current CEO of Stonegate, the UK's largest pub group. The conversation covers David's journey since joining Stonegate, the challenges he's faced, and the strategic changes he's implemented.
They also discuss the importance of pub culture, shifting consumer behaviours, and maintaining value through thoughtful pricing strategies. The episode highlights how David's leadership aims to fuse traditional pub values with modern innovations, ensuring sustainable growth and community engagement.
About Guest
David McDowell is the CEO of Stonegate Group, the largest pub company in the UK. With a career spanning significant leadership roles in the beverage and hospitality industries, McDowell is known for his strategic acumen and innovative approach to business. Before joining Stonegate, he served as the COO and President of Brewdog, where he was instrumental in driving the craft beer company's exponential growth and international expansion.
At Stonegate, McDowell oversees an extensive portfolio of pubs and bars, focusing on sustaining traditional pub values while embracing modern trends and consumer behaviours. Under his leadership, Stonegate has navigated the complexities of the UK pub market, implementing strategic changes to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency. McDowell places a strong emphasis on community engagement, thoughtful pricing strategies, and sustainable growth, ensuring that Stonegate not only thrives economically but also maintains its role as a cornerstone of local communities.
Stonegate Group: https://www.stonegategroup.co.uk/
David's LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/davidmcdowallglasgow
This podcast is sponsored by NFS Hospitality.
About NFS Hospitality:
With over 20 years of experience solving problems for restaurateurs, NFS Hospitality truly understands your challenges as a hospitality operator.
Whether you’re looking for top-notch POS & CRM systems, effective loyalty programs, the tools to execute powerful marketing campaigns, or a reliable Point of Sale system, NFS Hospitality has you covered with an end-to-end technology solution.
At NFS, we know every hospitality business is unique, and that’s why we’ve walked in your shoes time and again to deliver effortless, tailored technology solutions designed for your specific needs.
Our world-class technology puts the user at the heart of every transaction, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience for you, your teams, and your guests.
Leading hospitality operators like BrewDog, Gaucho, and Archie’s trust NFS to provide the technology that makes their operations run smoothly across all verticals. NFS knows what it takes to help both your team and your guests have a world-class experience with our solutions.
And with 24/7 support from actual humans, you can always rely on NFS day or night.
Visit http://nfs-hospitality.com/supersonic to speak to the experts at NFS today. You can also download insights and guides on how to leverage technology to grow your business.
Our Silver Sponsors are:
Airship and Toggle:
Airship is a data-driven CRM for the hospitality industry. Restaurants, bars, hotels, and pubs can use Airship to email marketing and create personal relationships with their customers.
Check out https://airship.co.uk/ for more information.
Saved by Robots:
Saved by Robots are passionate about creating compelling brands and memorable experiences through great design, engaging storytelling and genuine authenticity.
Visit Savedbyrobots.com to get in touch
About Mark Mcc:
Mark McCulloch is one of the leading food, drink and hospitality brand and marketing minds in the world. Mark has over twenty years brand, marketing, digital and social media experience holding senior and board-level positions at lastminute.com, Barclaycard, YO! Sushi and Pret A Manger. Mark co-founded multi-award-winning brand and marketing agency WE ARE Spectacular in 2012 which is still going strong today. Mark is now fulfilling his lifelong ambition to live and work by the sea in Brighton where he is a Virtual Chief Marketing Officer and Brand Strategist for the best hospitality, tech and B2B brands in the UK and beyond. Mark is also a popular thought leader, speaker and broadcaster, the highlight of which being in 2018 when Mark began podcasting and his Mark McC Supersonic Food Marketing podcast hosting guests including the greatest digital mind in the world Gary Vaynerchuk plus music legends Fatboy Slim and Alan McGee (the man who discovered rock band Oasis). Mark’s podcast has been d...
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EP. 145 ROGER DALTREY & JAMIE DALTREY: BREWING SUCCESS WITH LAKEDOWN BREWING CO
In this episode, we sit down with rock legend Roger Daltrey and his son Jamie Daltrey, the founders of Lakedown Brewing Co. Roger and Jamie discuss their journey of building the brewery on their estate, which also includes trout farming and carp farming. We talk about the highs, the lows, and the importance they place on sustainability and community involvement.
They detail their involvement with the Teenage Cancer Trust, and the challenges faced by smaller charities like theirs in raising funds, especially in the shadow of larger charity events.
We also touch on Roger's music career, with anecdotes about past performances and the upcoming script for a biopic. The conversation also explores the future plans for Lakedown Brewing Co, including collaborations with other breweries and the potential opening of a pub. Overall, the episode provides a glimpse into the personal and professional journey of Roger and Jamie Daltrey, showcasing their dedication to both craft and charitable endeavours.
About Roger Daltrey & Jamie Daltrey
Roger Daltrey is a legendary musician and the iconic lead vocalist of The Who, one of the most influential rock bands in history. While his powerful voice and dynamic stage presence have left an indelible mark on the music industry, Roger has also ventured into the world of craft brewing. As a passionate advocate for quality and community, he co-founded Lakedown Brewing Co. with his son Jamie. The brewery, set in the picturesque landscape of the family farm in East Sussex, produces a range of premium beers that reflect the Daltrey family's dedication to excellence.
Beyond his contributions to music and brewing, Roger is renowned for his philanthropic efforts, particularly his work with the Teenage Cancer Trust. He has been instrumental in raising awareness and funds for the charity, which supports young people with cancer.
Jamie Daltrey, Roger's son, is an accomplished entrepreneur and co-founder of Lakedown Brewing Co. Combining his passion for craft beer with a commitment to quality and sustainability, Jamie has helped establish the brewery as a respected name in the industry.
Lakedown Brewery Co: https://lakedownbrewing.com/
Teenage Cancer Trust: https://www.teenagecancertrust.org/
This podcast is sponsored by NFS Hospitality.
About NFS Hospitality:
With over 20 years of experience solving problems for restaurateurs, NFS Hospitality truly understands your challenges as a hospitality operator.
Whether you’re looking for top-notch POS & CRM systems, effective loyalty programs, the tools to execute powerful marketing campaigns, or a reliable Point of Sale system, NFS Hospitality has you covered with an end-to-end technology solution.
At NFS, we know every hospitality business is unique, and that’s why we’ve walked in your shoes time and again to deliver effortless, tailored technology solutions designed for your specific needs.
Our world-class technology puts the user at the heart of every transaction, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience for you, your teams, and your guests.
Leading hospitality operators like BrewDog, Gaucho, and Archie’s trust NFS to provide the technology that makes their operations run smoothly across all verticals. NFS knows what it takes to help both your team and your guests have a world-class experience with our solutions.
And with 24/7 support from actual humans, you can always rely on NFS day or night.
Visit http://nfs-hospitality.com/supersonic to speak to the experts at NFS today. You can also download insights and guides on how to leverage technology to grow your business.
Our Silver Sponsors are:
Airship and Toggle:
Airship is a data-driven CRM for the hospitality industry. Restaurants, bars, hotels, and pubs can use Airship to email marketing and create personal relationships with their customers.
Check out https://airship.co.uk/ for more information.
Saved by Robots:
Saved by Robots are passionate about creating compelling brands and memorable experiences through great design, engaging storytelling and genuine authenticity.
Visit Savedbyrobots.com to get in touch
About Mark Mcc:
Mark McCulloch is one of the leading food, drink and hospitality brand and marketing minds in the world. Mark has over twenty years brand, marketing, digital and social media experience holding senior and board-level positions at lastminute.com, Barclaycard, YO! Sushi and Pret A Manger. Mark co-founded multi-award-winning brand and marketing agency WE ARE Spectacular in 2012 which is still going stron...
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EP. 147 KRIS HALL: INVESTING IN MENTAL HEALTH WITH BURNT CHEF PROJECT
In this episode, Mark McC catches up with Kris Hall, founder of The Burnt Chef Project, to discuss mental health within the hospitality industry. They explore Kris's personal journey, the start of the project through a photography campaign, and its growth into a global initiative offering support and training.
The conversation looks at mental health awareness and support in the high pressure environment of hospitality, as well as Kris's experience and passion for creating sustainable change. The episode also features insights into partnership dynamics, mental health strategies, and the importance of open dialogue within organisations.
About Guest
Kris Hall is the founder of the Burnt Chef Project, an organization dedicated to mental health awareness in the hospitality industry. With a background in hospitality sales and a passion for improving workplace culture, Kris launched the initiative in response to the high levels of stress and mental health challenges faced by industry professionals.
The Burnt Chef Project aims to destigmatize mental health issues through education, support, and community engagement. Kris’s vision is to create a culture where open discussions about mental health are normalized, providing resources and support to those in need.
Under his leadership, the project has grown to include training programs, workshops, and a range of resources designed to promote mental well-being. Kris's commitment to change is evident in his efforts to foster a supportive environment, helping individuals and businesses prioritize mental health.
Website: https://www.theburntchefproject.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krishall1/
This podcast is sponsored by NFS Hospitality.
About NFS Hospitality:
With over 20 years of experience solving problems for restaurateurs, NFS Hospitality truly understands your challenges as a hospitality operator.
Whether you’re looking for top-notch POS & CRM systems, effective loyalty programs, the tools to execute powerful marketing campaigns, or a reliable Point of Sale system, NFS Hospitality has you covered with an end-to-end technology solution.
At NFS, we know every hospitality business is unique, and that’s why we’ve walked in your shoes time and again to deliver effortless, tailored technology solutions designed for your specific needs.
Our world-class technology puts the user at the heart of every transaction, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience for you, your teams, and your guests.
Leading hospitality operators like BrewDog, Gaucho, and Archie’s trust NFS to provide the technology that makes their operations run smoothly across all verticals. NFS knows what it takes to help both your team and your guests have a world-class experience with our solutions.
And with 24/7 support from actual humans, you can always rely on NFS day or night.
Visit http://nfs-hospitality.com/supersonic to speak to the experts at NFS today. You can also download insights and guides on how to leverage technology to grow your business.
Our Silver Sponsors are:
Airship and Toggle:
Airship is a data-driven CRM for the hospitality industry. Restaurants, bars, hotels, and pubs can use Airship to email marketing and create personal relationships with their customers.
Check out https://airship.co.uk/ for more information.
Saved by Robots:
Saved by Robots are passionate about creating compelling brands and memorable experiences through great design, engaging storytelling and genuine authenticity.
Visit Savedbyrobots.com to get in touch
About Mark Mcc:
Mark McCulloch is one of the leading food, drink and hospitality brand and marketing minds in the world. Mark has over twenty years brand, marketing, digital and social media experience holding senior and board-level positions at lastminute.com, Barclaycard, YO! Sushi and Pret A Manger. Mark co-founded multi-award-winning brand and marketing agency WE ARE Spectacular in 2012 which is still going strong today. Mark is now fulfilling his lifelong ambition to live and work by the sea in Brighton where he is a Virtual Chief Marketing Officer and Brand Strategist for the best hospitality, tech and B2B brands in the UK and beyond. Mark is also a popular thought leader, speaker and broadcaster, the highlight of which being in 2018 when Mark began podcasting and his Mark McC Supersonic Food Marketing podcast hosting guests including the greatest digital mind in the world Gary Vaynerchuk plus music legends Fatboy Slim and Alan McGee (the man who discovered rock band Oasis). Mark’s podcast has been downloaded hundreds of thous...
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