Dear Members,

With many discussions on-going within the Food and Beverage Department, I wanted to provide members with a specific, in-depth update on how we are continuing to review, adapt and implement new initiatives and plans whilst maintaining both our offering to members and the high service levels we as a club currently boast.

Within these discussions, we are fortunate to have had the opportunity to review suppliers on a level greater than was previously possible, mainly because our contract with Marston’s was drawing to a close.

The close of this agreement presented an opportune moment to go to tender, allowing analysis of the market and deals available within it.  This process saw four major industry suppliers: Marston’s, Molson Coors, Greene King and Primo Drinks come forward with proposals. Having carefully considered each tender, it was Marston’s and Molson Coors who were the front runners as their overall proposals offered improved benefits to members.

Our current supplier is Marston’s and a change on this front was not considered lightly, however, when exploring the tenders and the member benefits put forward, we believe a change to Molson Coors to be highly beneficial.

This transfer from Marston’s to Molson Coors is imminent and should take place tomorrow, Thursday 22nd September.

One of the largest selling points with the change is that we will be able to offer members some industry leading brands. Specifically the introduction of three of the UK’s most popular lagers Carling, Molson Coors and Madri. Dizzy Blonde will replace Hob Goblin and Aspalls replaces Kingston Press. We will also see the introduction of our very own Fairhaven Gold as an alternative to Smooth.

Part of the review process has been an in-depth analysis of the pricing strategy in operation with a view to ensuring member prices are held.  Although at this stage we are able to hold the prices to members, we are aware that in the future we will continue to see small increases, particularly in products such as Guinness which has increased by well-over 10% in the last 6-months alone, but we will continue to work diligently to ensure that members continue to pay favourable market prices.

Additionally, we believe that by applying an increased member discount of 20% on all bar items we can sustain prices to members, capitalising on non-members, both in the form of groups of visiting golfers and also external functions / events. Using this pricing strategy an uplift of over £9,000 per annum is forecast based on current sales figures. Please note that the 20% member discount only applies to bar sales, with the 10% discount on food purchases still be in operation.

Below, I have set out a detailed comparison of new brands coming to the club, the price, both before and after the changes discussed above, and the positive impact this has on member prices:

Wine Partnership

As part of this on-going review, we have been looking at the wine options available at the club. The Food and Beverage Team and I are thrilled to announce and introduce a new partnership with local wine supplier EWGA, which was founded in Lancashire in 1972 by Pamela and Gerald Moeckell.

Their traditional business of wine wholesaling is continued today by their son Adrian and his loyal team of staff, offering an exclusive and competitive portfolio backed up by exceptional customer service.

We are delighted to announce that on Friday 7th October we will be launching our new wine list, with some items becoming available beforehand.

WINE TASTING – FRIDAY 7TH OCTOBER 2022

To celebrate the launch of this partnership, EWGA are kindly supporting a wine evening at the club on Friday 7th October which will see our Account Manager and Wine Connoisseur, Craig Chappell, present the fantastic range of wines available to members, whilst providing the opportunity to taste a selection from the list.  Food will also be available on the evening in the form of a cheese spread.

In addition to this we also have many fantastic member events to look forward to. Members can keep up to date with upcoming Club activities on the ‘What’s On’ page, which can be viewed here: https://www.fairhavengolfclub.co.uk/club_events.php

Management Structure

In a previous member update, I advised that careful consideration was being given with regard to the structure moving forward. It agreed the next stage in the development of the F&B department was vital and must ensure stability whilst continuing to transition forward.

I am thrilled to advise members that Todd Russell has been permanently appointed as Clubhouse Operations Manager. Throughout the past 12-months, many challenges have been presented to the team, from staff recruitment issues to the difficult operational requirements brought about by the covid-19 pandemic.

Despite these turbulent times, Todd has continued to lead the team effectively, providing members with a consistent level of service and giving us a strong and stable platform for future progression on this front. I am delighted that Todd has accepted the position.

I am sure members will join me in congratulating Todd and will offer continued support to both him and the team as we move forward to the next stage of the department's exciting development. 

We look forward to welcoming you over the coming weeks to sample the new and improved offerings now available to members.

Mark Duncalf    |    General Manager    |    September 2022