Ashlie Thurston, Head of IT and Digital Transformation at Stonegate Group, the UK’ s largest pub company, is transforming operations and customer engagement
Ashlie Thurston, Head of IT and Digital Transformation at Stonegate Group, the UK’ s largest pub company, is transforming operations and customer engagement
he hospitality industry stands at a digital crossroads. Long considered something of a technological laggard compared to sectors like retail and financial services, pubs and restaurants are now experiencing rapid digital transformation, a process which was only accelerated by the Covid-19 pandemic.
For traditional hospitality businesses, this shift presents both significant challenges and extraordinary opportunities. Digital solutions must enhance rather than detract from the warmth and personal connection that define great hospitality experiences. Yet the potential benefits – improved operational efficiency, deeper customer insights and enhanced guest experiences – make digital transformation an imperative.
The UK pub sector faces particular complexities. Balancing technological innovation with the cherished traditions of British pub culture requires careful navigation and strategic vision.
“ It’ s a really exciting time to be in technology, more so in hospitality, because there’ s so much to go after and that gap with retail is closing so rapidly,” says Ashlie Thurston, Head of IT and Digital Transformation at Stonegate Group.
148 May 2025