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26
May
Harrogate bar owner launches collective for local hospitality independents
The owner of a long-standing Harrogate bar has set up a group for independent hospitality venues.
Jay Smith, who opened Montey’s on The Ginnel nearly 30 years ago, has recently launched Harrogate Independent Bars and Restaurants (HIBAR), a collective dedicated to supporting and promoting the town’s independent hospitality scene.
Mr Smith told the Stray Ferret the industry has become increasingly challenging for independent venues, but he feels it is those venues that give Harrogate its identity.
“Now, more than ever, it’s time we stood together and told that story loud and proud”, he added.
Mr Smith said:
Harrogate is so well-served with independents, but we really need to work together. We want to help each other.
The group - which welcomes owners of local cafés, restaurants, bars, delis, breweries and coffee shops – hopes to encourage collaboration between local businesses and put a spotlight on the independent venues across the area.
Mr Smith said the group is “not a way of pitting independents against chains”, but hopes members will be able to share resources, ideas and skills.
“We should be able to come up with some really great stuff and highlight to our guests which businesses are independent and local”, he added.
Our guests want to support local – we just need to make it easier for them to do so. HIBAR is about showing people who we are, what we stand for and how much better our town is when local hospitality thrives.
Mr Smith told the Stray Ferret a number of local business owners have already enquired about joining HIBAR.
He hopes HIBAR would be able to offer promotions across the local area, as well work together on potential joint purchases and events.
To join HIBAR, email your details to harrogate@monteys.com.
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