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.
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.
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