Partner Article

Durham wine and drinks company set to launch first retail outlet

Lanchester Group, the North East’s ‘hidden’ wine-bottling and drinks company, has got a new public face.

The Pip Stop is the Durham-based group’s first retail outlet and is the brainchild of Ben Cleary, son of Tony and Veronica Cleary, who run the family-controlled group, where their two daughters are also on the team.

Housed in a former Morgan sports car dealership, near Lanchester, the Pip Stop will celebrate its formal opening on Saturday (April 25) with a an across-the-board ten per cent discount on all stock.

The 2,000 sq ft premises at Maiden Law was formerly the Macdonald Racing Morgan car workshop and Ben is maintaining a vintage car theme in the new venture’s name and décor.

Ben is using his experience working for Majestic Wine to source a variety of interesting world wines for the Pip Stop, which will also feature some of Lanchester Wine’s own bottled wines, as well as a range of carefully selected local and world beers and ciders.

Ben said: “We’ve been working very hard to bring new life to what was something of a local landmark for motor fans before the Morgan dealership relocated to Beamish.

“I’m very excited to make my contribution to the development of the family business by adding a strong public-facing retail brand to our portfolio.

“There’s been a tremendous amount of interest and we’re looking forward to a busy day on Saturday.”

Group Managing Director Tony Cleary added: “I’m delighted with the way Ben has enthusiastically driven forward the Pip Stop project, which brings an exciting new dimension to Lanchester – both the group and the location!”

On Thursday evening (April 23), The Pip Stop hosts local VIPs and residents to thank them for their patience during renovation work.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →