Barracuda opens Smith & Jones pub in Ayr

August 22, 2008: The Barracuda Group has opened its latest Smith & Jones branded pub in Scotland, the Malt Cross, in Ayr. Representing an investment of just over £800,000, the pub has recruited a 29-strong team.

Francis Carr, manager of The Malt Cross was appointed specifically to open the pub and has seen the site transformed from a Poundstretcher store.

He said: “I joined Barracuda back in April and have been working at The First Edition in Kilmarnock to learn the company processes and to make sure that I’m fully up to speed with everything. I am very excited about opening the site.

“We are very fortunate that we are opening in the early stages of the rejuvenation plans for Ayr and we’re confident that we’ll be a welcome addition to the town."

Real ales available will include the likes of Scottish favourites Deuchars IPA and Caledonian 80/-.

The Malt Cross will offers a traditional pub combined with a high standard finish, with features such as slate, wood block and carpet flooring in a contemporary design. There are comfortable leather booths and sofa seating, coupled with plenty of tables and chairs from which to dine.

The Barracuda Group currently operates 12 pubs in Scotland, including sites in Dumfries, Inverness and Stirling.