PAUL Newman, co-founder of the North West-based pub operator, New Moon Company, has quit the business.

The news follows the closure of The Bronx bar and 'pizzeterria' in Knutsford

Newman, who established the company alongside business partner, Chef David Mooney in 2011, went on to open eight bars and restaurants across the region, including Manchester’s Beef & Pudding, the Old Sessions House in Knutsford and the recently renovated Blind School in Liverpool.

However, yesterday Newman revealed via Twitter that it was time he ‘moved on to new pastures’, although he was quick to dispel any negativity surround his departure, saying: ‘Just to be clear – David Mooney is a legend and we are mates and we will work together again in the future.'

The news follows the closure of The Bronx bar and 'pizzeterria' in Knutsford (reviewed here), which opened with a bang in January and closed with a whimper earlier this month, amongst reports of staffing and supplier issues.

Meanwhile, an insider has informed Confidential that Casa Matta, the group's Italian restaurant near Northwich, could be next for the chop.

.The Bronx in Knutsford closed earlier this month

Newman, a hospitality veteran with more than 25 years experience, began his career in booze working for Classic Wines in Chester and Absolut Vodka UK, before becoming a founding board member and shareholder in Tim Bacon's Living Ventures group, helping to establish such concepts such as The Living Room, Gusto and The Blackhouse Grills.

In 2009 Paul was selected as one of the most influential people in the industry at the Theme Magazine Top 100 awards and has frequently featured amongst the Northern Restaurant & Bar’s list of Top 50 operators.

However, as the New Moon Pub group begins to shed assets, our insider told us that Newman had decided to 'dump his shares and run'.

When approached, Mr Mooney, told Confidential ‘it’s business as usual’, in regards to the group.

Although, for the time being at least, the company website appears to be experiencing some problems.

wakelet Powered by Wakelet