Case Studies

Stephen Baker and Kelly Barker have shared a friendship for over two decades, having first connected, like many, through their children. Both possess a deep-rooted passion for the hospitality industry. Stephen’s father, a successful accountant, moved his family to St Ives to invest in hospitality when Stephen was just 6 years old. Stephen is now the owner of the renowned Carbis Bay Hotel Estate, host of the 2021 G7 Summit, and associated businesses including The Gannet Inn, Gannet House and Pod St Ives. Growing up in hospitality, Stephen has been fortunate in gaining experience in pretty much every role within the industry, acquiring a thorough understanding of the standards required to create a sustainable, long-term hospitality business. Following his father’s principles of continual investment and improvement, alongside developing team ethos, the group is now supported by over 250 local employees. Stephen and Kelly’s philosophies on hospitality appear well aligned, with customer experience being the number one priority. They both have an in-depth knowledge of the local communities in which they operate and an eye for generating multiple income streams; something which they both believe is essential in modern hospitality. Their first joint venture materialised in 2023, when Kelly saw potential in a café in nearby Portreath. They set about transforming the small beachside venue, turning it into a community favourite, serving quality, locally sourced food and drinks from 9am to 8pm every day. “We’re really proud of what we and the team have achieved at The Pod Cafe,” said Kelly, “It’s been hard work, but Stephen saw my vision and believed that he could help with investment in terms of funding and logistical support. Being able to draw on the talent within the Carbis Bay Estate has also allowed us to create something truly special.” The Pod Cafe is just a stone’s throw away from the Basset Arms, which had sadly closed in 2023. “We all know that pubs are really important to communities,” explained Stephen, “Especially in villages like Portreath where, untypically for much of coastal Cornwall, the community is very local and there are fewer holiday homes. “Kelly identified a strategic opportunity to expand our business operation in Portreath beyond the Pod Cafe by taking on the adjacent Basset Arms. Her clear vision for the pub was shaped by a deep understanding of both the importance of local community and the hospitality industry, complemented by her exceptional talent for interior design. “Again, by utilising the resources and support from the Carbis Bay Estate team, we were able to design menus using our existing local supply chains and conceptualise onsite accommodation.” Stephen and Kelly approached The Wellington Pub Company with a business plan designed to turn The Basset Arms into a beautifully restored Cornish coastal inn with a modern twist, that blends classic gastro pub dining, cosy boutique bedrooms and fine ales, wines and spirits. In keeping with their other businesses, the food and beverage offer was to be predominantly locally sourced, so being ‘Free of Tie’ was essential in maintaining their relationships with existing local suppliers. Stephen continued, “After a period of negotiation, we were able to strike a deal with Wellington Pub Company that worked for all parties. We delivered a compelling business plan backed up with a strong tenant covenant and since each new lease is reviewed individually and based on its merits, the team at Wellington Pub Company could immediately see the benefits of our offer.” The Basset Arms re-opened in July 2025 following a comprehensive and beautifully designed refurbishment plan to include new letting rooms and innovative accommodation pods.