Powder Monkey – Rug has been pulled

Seating outside for balmy evenings

After just six months the new Powder Monkey at the Guildhall in Andover was suddenly closed by their parent company.

It was exciting for Andover
Trade in the pub/bar in the historic Grade II* Listed Building was just getting of the ground with its excellent staff building a following for its friendly service, good beer and a growing number of events. 

The range of beers was good, with six varied modern keg craft beers from their Gosport brewery along with a good range of bottle beers from other breweries in the Powder Monkey Group such as Goddards, and Empire.
It was seen as exciting for the town and a welcome addition to the town's revitalisation.

A buzz was starting to develop

A buzz was developing
After what seemed to be a shaky start with a turnover of local managers it soon settled down and was establishing a supporting clientele.
Quiz Nights, Tasting Evenings and Lifestyle events were held and groups held parties and familiy gatherings.

It took part in the Andover Rocks charity event, ran Quizzes and introduced a selection of games and drinks offers. Sunday Roasts had been introduced along with a first breakfast menu.

 
Soft furnishing was added with sofas and armchairs while tables and chairs went on the outside cobbled patio area when the weather allowed. It was all starting to take off in readiness for an exciting summer which would have added a wonderfully attractive continental feel to the High Street. 

Good food was often available

A buzz was starting to develop.

But then the rug was pulled. Powder Monkey's owners had other plans. 

Doors suddenly closed
After just six months customers found the doors had been suddenly closed. Staff were told with virtually no notice not to go into work and that they were being made redundant. No reasons were made clear.
Even the landlords Test Valley Borough Council could not offer a credible explanation, even saying the closure was temporary.

But it wasn't.

Some thoughts on the company
Powder Monkey has tarnished itself.
As a company it was growing, taking on other small breweries and expanding its small Australian arm. 

New initiatives such as the Andover bar need a time to settle in but that wasn't allowed. Instead where else will Powder Monkey next start up a venture then simply walk away if there is not an immediate overnight success?
They did not give Powder Monkey at the Guildhall a chance.

A shadow has been cast.