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Laine Pub Company snaps up Urban Art Bar

The Laine Pub Company is set to acquire Birmingham-based pub group Urban Art Bar from founder Graham Smith for an undisclosed sum. The group is made up of three freehold pubs, the Lord Clifden, Red Lion and the Wagon & Horses.

The deal will expand Laine from its existing operations in London and Brighton and give it a national pub and brewing presence it said would bring “enhanced pub experiences and great craft beer to savvy audiences throughout the country".

Laine chief executive Gavin George said Smith had “created exciting environments frequented by customers who are definitely receptive to a constantly evolving experience. That is what he has done so well for many years in Birmingham and we are delighted he is passing that mantle to Laine.”

Smith will leave Urban Art Bar once the deal is complete, which is set to happen at the end of April. “I spend a lot of time in Brighton and have seen first hand what Laine has achieved with its pubs and craft beer portfolio,” he said.

“The originality, authenticity, quirkiness and sometimes audacity of what they bring to their propositions will work very well in these pubs and in this city. Our customers and staff will love them.”