The Ploughman in Peterculter under new ownership

 A licensee and a former oil executive have joined forces to acquire a North-east pub and restaurant. 

Simon Cruickshank, owner of the nearby Richmond Arms pub, and Alistair Dornan, who was previously a director of oil and gas engineering businesses Xodus and ClerkMaxwell, are the new mine hosts at The Ploughman in Peterculter.

The pub was run for 33 years by husband and wife Graeme and Shirley Wight, who have decided to retire. Simon first met Alistair in the 1990s when he owned The Bieldside Inn, which he sold in 2003 after 13 years at the helm. Simon bought the Richmond Arms in 2004. 

Said Simon, “We’re delighted to have acquired a well-run business, and I ’d like to take this opportunity to wish Graeme and Shirley all the best in their retirement. They built up a hospitality business that stuck to a traditional Scottish pub theme and we intend to continue their good work. We will be seeking feedback from staff and customers as we look to invest in the business.

He continued, “We are also looking to engage with local food and drink suppliers. It’s important we support the suppliers right on our doorstep and I believe it’s what our customers want to see as well. Despite the change in ownership the aim remains the same – we want The Ploughman to be a great place for family and friends in the Peterculter area.” 

Alistair said, “The Ploughman is an institution and the opportunity to purchase it was too good to turn down. The deal has been very smooth thanks to Graeme and Shirley. We will be looking to refurbish the pub, lounge and restaurant in due course. In the meantime, it’s very much business as usual – serving great food and drink, with great service. “I’m looking forward to working with Simon to develop The Ploughman into a truly outstanding experience.” 

The new directors also plan to extend the wine list in the dining and lounge area. All staff – five full-time and 19 part-time – at The Ploughman are being retained. The lounge and restaurant area has 120 covers, while the bar can hold around 60 people. The Ploughman has seating outside and car parking for around 40 vehicles.

The value of the deal has not been disclosed.