Publican who has increased his pub portfolio

TED Docherty is the tenant of the Little Angel Pub in Remenham, near Henley. He also runs the Crown in Playhatch and the White Hart in Nettlebed. The Little Angel recently re-opened under his management after renovations. He has lived in Emmer Green for 10 years, is married to Karen, has two daughters, Alex and Danielle, and a son called Josh. Ted is South African, loves rugby and likes great food.

Describe your business

We are a small collection of pubs that has been operating since 2003 and continues to grow year on year.

How many people does it employ? More than 100 people in our three pubs — both full and part time.

What did you do before you started this business?

I worked in the trade for Greene King for three years, prior to that I had my own business in South Africa.

When did you start your business?

In 2003 we opened a pub outside Guildford then we moved on with the Crown and then the White Hart and have just refurbished the Little, opening on June 6.

What was your objective?

A way of life, this industry is not a job, it’s a passion. We look forward to growing the business and enjoying a really busy regatta.

Who or what influenced you?

I read Cane and Abel in school and wanted to be a hotelier but I never got there.

Do you have a mentor?

No not really, I am quite individualistic and I tend to run businesses my way. But, as I get older, I get smarter at taking advice.

What would you do differently if starting again?

Experience is what you get when you didn’t get what you wanted. Therefore, every time you make an error you learn. Maybe I would be better funded next time?

How is your business doing?

It’s up in terms of turnover, across the two pubs, and we manage our margin well. With this new pub, it’s too early to tell.

Do you compare on a regular basis?

Like for like weekly, we always also look at the weather.

How do you market your business?

We do a bit of social media stuff but we rely on the word of mouth and good service.

What’s the best thing about running your business?

Blue sky. If you want to chat to the boss, you go and look in the mirror.

What’s the most challenging aspect?

Converting turnover to profit, managing margins, tough times, energy inflation and the Government doesn’t make it easy. We cannot just pass on the costs to a consumer.

Where is your business headed?

It is not heading towards retirement — it’s fun. Three pubs is as much as I can run at one time.

How important are online sales?

Online bookings are so important, so that we know who is coming and so that staff are prepared.

Are you using AI?

We have used it for looking at new menu dishes, recipes and wording on menus. We also use AI to craft new dishes, like vegan specials. It’s super quick.

Do you have a five-year plan?

Yes and that also includes working on my golf.

Do you have a work-life balance?

With difficulty.

Do you set goals for your business?

Yes, a percentage increase on last year, both margin and profitability.

What’s the most valuable thing you’ve learned?

Treat people like you want to be treated yourself.

What advice would you offer to anybody starting a business?

Do your research and work out where you can add value. Also, don’t be afraid to change.

What’s the biggest mistake you’ve made?

Trying to shoehorn the concept, into demographics that don’t support it.

How organised are you?

Emotionally and spiritually but my fragility is admin.

How are you planning for retirement?

Trying to counter the effect that Donald Trump is having on the stock market.

What’s the secret of your success?

Hard work, perseverance, patience.

What three qualities do you think are most important to become a success?

Empathy, dedication and persistence.

How do you dress for work each day?

Jeans and a smart checked shirt, unless it is hot then I put on my chinos.

What can’t you do without every day?

Happy customers and really positive staff.

What change would you most like to see in 2025?

Lower taxes and business rates.

Interview by Will Hamilton, intermediary and global marketing consultant, Hamilton Associates