Hospitality veteran Justin Platt has been hired as the new chief executive officer of pub group Marston’s.

Platt has over 30 years of experience in hospitality, and most recently capped off a 12 year period at Merlin Entertainments culminating as its chief strategy officer.

The company said that Platt has a “proven track record of delivering sustainable business growth through his clarity of strategic focus, a passion for enhancing customer experiences and a relentless focus on business results delivery,” and said that he was ‘perfectly’ equipped to lead Marston’s “through the next phase of its development.”

He will take up the position on 10 January 2024, with current chief exec Andrew Andrea agreeing to step down with immediate effect.

Marston’s praised Andrea for his 20 years of service to the company, including his period as chief exec from 2021 onwards. The company thanked him for navigating the pub chain “through the pandemic and more recently the challenging macroeconomic conditions”.

William Rucker, chair, who will support the management transition in the short interim period with the executive team reporting directly into him, said: "Andrew has worked for the company for over 20 years and the board thanks him for his valuable contribution, particularly in recent times, which has been one of the most challenging for our sector. He leaves with our very best wishes.

“Looking forward, I am very pleased to be able to announce the appointment of Justin Platt whose broad Consumer sector expertise, strategic acumen and prowess in customer experience at Merlin will be of great benefit to Marston’s at this stage in the Company’s journey.”

Justin Platt added: “I am delighted to be joining Marston’s. The company has massive potential and a passionate and talented team. I am really looking forward to working with the Board and the management team to deliver the sustainable business growth that will drive value for our shareholders.”

Marston’s operates around 1,415 pubs and bars across England, Scotland and Wales.

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