The Signet Collection to restore pub for 'landmark' training academy launch

The Signet Collection has purchased the Halfway Inn on the outskirts of Newbury.

The purchase marks the group’s first pub, which is situated next to its Berkshire hotel the Retreat.

The group – which operates four hotels in Berkshire, Rutland, the South Downs and Hampton Court – plans to turn the new pub into a training hub, while also restoring the site in the style of the Signet Collection.

The redevelopment of the site will see a new research and development kitchen which will be the base for the soon-to-launch Academy, providing the group with a programme to upskill and train in-house.

With six bedrooms, the site will allow team members to come together to refine their skills and develop menus.

The training hub will complement the company’s existing graduate programme which showcases the career paths that exist within the industry, engaging with hospitality schools within countries in the commonwealth to capture talent at a grass roots level through international and local work placement schemes.

Meanwhile, later this summer, the Halfway Inn will reopen to guests, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner daily – providing a live space for team members to continue to train and develop their skills.

Hector Ross, founder of the Signet Collection, said: “Purchasing the Halfway Inn is a landmark step for us and showcases our commitment to our team, our future growth plans and our local community. 

“It’s a privilege to be restoring this Inn back to its former glory and we look forward to not only building a workplace where our team can thrive, but welcoming guests back to enjoy great food & drinks with a menu that champions all things local.”