Wells & Co. appoints hospitality leader Gavin George as Non-Executive Director

Bedford, 7th October 2026: Wells & Co. has appointed hospitality industry leader Gavin George as a Non-Executive Director, further strengthening the Board as the family-owned pub and brewing business continues to focus on long-term growth and delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Gavin brings more than 30 years of hospitality leadership experience, having co-founded and led the Laine Pub & Brewing Company, building the business to more than 60 sites across Brighton, London and Birmingham as well as a 20,000 hl brewery, before stepping down as Chief Executive in 2024. Since then, he has focused on board advisory and non-executive positions across the sector and was recently appointed Chair of Chickpea Group.

In his new role, Gavin will work alongside the Wells & Co. Board and leadership team, helping to support the business as it continues to evolve its pub estate, invest in its offer and strengthen its position in an increasingly competitive market.

Peter Wells, Chief Executive of Wells & Co., said:

"I am delighted to welcome Gavin to Wells & Co. He is one of the most respected figures in the hospitality industry, with a proven track record of building successful pub businesses, developing strong teams and delivering outstanding customer experiences.

"As we continue to evolve and invest in our business, Gavin's experience, insight and fresh perspective will be invaluable. His understanding of what makes great hospitality businesses successful aligns closely with our own ambition to ensure customers continue to choose our pubs in an increasingly competitive market.

"Our guest-centred approach remains central to everything we do, and Gavin's expertise will help us build on our strong foundations as we look to the future. We are incredibly excited to be working alongside him."

Commenting on his appointment, Gavin George said:

"I'm delighted to be joining Wells & Co. at such an exciting time in its journey. The business combines a proud heritage with a clear desire to innovate, underpinned by strong values, great people and a genuine commitment to hospitality.

"As Wells & Co. continues to deliver against its growth plans, there is a significant opportunity to build on that strong foundation while remaining focused on the guest experience that sits at the heart of successful pub businesses. I look forward to working with Pete, the Board and the wider team as the business continues to evolve.”

Images:

A headshot of Gavin here

For further information please contact Erin Wilkes via erin.wilkes@stormcom.co.uk.

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