In a landmark investment deal, Avison Young has concluded the sale of a 95-strong pub portfolio from Wales’ leading brewer, SA Brain & Co, to Song Capital and Partners.

The freehold and leasehold portfolio includes many iconic trophy assets located throughout Wales, all let to Marston’s Estates on 25-year leases.

The sale reflects a NIY of 5.75%.

Peter Constantine, Managing Director of Avison Young, Cardiff, says, “This is a landmark deal which secures the future of this popular pub portfolio, and enables SA Brain to concentrate on brewing its famous beer brands in the heart of Cardiff.

“This is a fantastic deal which continues to demonstrate the strong interest in the leisure sector.”

Chris Gore, Principal of Avison Young’s central London Investment team adds:
“This was a deal that faced several headwinds throughout including lockdowns, inflation, interest rate rises and rising global uncertainty, but the London and Cardiff Avison Young teams worked seamlessly together in the best interest of our retained client SA Brain to get this complicated deal done and at a strong price.”

Jon Bridge, CEO of SA Brain & Co Ltd says, “We have all worked diligently together for a period of time to ensure a jointly successful outcome. I would like to thank everyone involved for their dedication and hard work.

“This provides a foundation for our modern state of the art facility, Dragon Brewery to brew our famous beers in the heart of Cardiff and continue to supply Brains beers to our loyal and new customers for generations to come.”