Mark Loughborough has been named chief executive of Various Eateries, the restaurant group behind the Noci and Coppa Club brands.
He will join the board and begin his role at the company, backed by hospitality entrepreneur Hugh Osmond, on 20 January.
Loughborough brings over 30 years of industry experience, including 14 years at Young’s, where he served as retail director and executive board member. During his tenure, he oversaw operations for 280 pubs and 1,085 bedrooms, managing £490 million in revenue.
Various Eateries reported a £6.7 million loss before tax for the year ending October 2023, though revenue increased by 12% to £45.5 million. Last year, the group expressed confidence in the “long-term prosperity” of the business, noting that current market conditions presented “a generational opportunity akin to the casual dining revolution of the 1990s.”
Loughborough stated that he looked forward to working with the team to unlock the group’s “full potential.”
Meanwhile, Various Eateries has announced several changes to its board. Andy Bassadone will transition from executive chairman to executive director, where he will continue to focus on the success of Noci as its founder.
Bassadone said: 'Mark’s exceptional leadership, strategic vision and focus on operational excellence have been pivotal in shaping one of the most respected companies in the hospitality sector. His experience and expertise align perfectly with our goals of driving growth and enhancing profitability and I am delighted to welcome him to the group.
At the same time, Glyn Barker, a non-executive director, will take on the role of non-executive chairman. Barker, who is currently chairman of Irwin Mitchell, brings significant public markets experience from previous roles, including chairman of house builder Berkeley Group, director at drilling contractor Transocean, and senior independent director at insurance company Aviva.
Barker said: 'With Mark coming on board as chief executive, the group is well-positioned to enter its next phase of growth.”
