THE BRITISH institute of innkeeping (BII) has named Michelle Gilmour of Coventry’s ‘The Old Windmill’ pub as one of just six national finalists for its Licensee of the Year Award.
Licensee operators have been battling it out for the award since January by showing judges evidence of how they have been building their businesses, teams and communities.
Judges have particularly been focusing on the entries resilience, sustainability and diversification, as well as judging mystery diner visits, financial and online audits and face-to-face interviews in their pubs.
The Old Windmill has been described by judges as a stunning 15th Century pub with a fireplace and a warm place to read a book.
The Spon Street pub, which was selected from over 300 entrants, was also described a ‘great blend of old and new.’
Michelle will be presented with a trophy alongside the other finalists at the BII Summer Event next Tuesday, June 20, where the winner of Licensee of the Year 2023 will be crowned.
The BII CEO Steven Alton said: “Our Licensee of the Year Award is the most prestigious & hard-fought award, showcasing the dedication and excellence in our sector. The final six are of an incredible standard.
“We are very proud that the awards offer a value-added experience to all those involved.
“Our finalists will have had the opportunity to evaluate their businesses at every stage, from mystery customer reports and judging visit feedback, right through to our final judging day at Sky HQ on Monday, June 19.”
