Blacks Business Brokers Completes Successful Sale Of Real Crafty

Blacks Business Brokers is pleased to announce the successful sale of Real Crafty, an award-winning independent craft beer bar located in the heart of Wigan. The transaction marks another successful handover managed by Blacks, recognised across the UK for connecting quality independent businesses with motivated buyers.

Real Crafty first opened its doors in 2020 in the beautifully converted former Royal British Legion building at 9 Upper Dicconson Street. Since then, it has become one of Greater Manchester’s most celebrated beer destinations. With its eclectic offering of rotating keg beers, cask ales, ciders, wines, spirits, and international bottles—curated through its unique “Beer Atlas” experience—Real Crafty quickly stood out in the region’s growing craft beer scene. Its reputation was solidified through multiple awards, including Wigan CAMRA Pub of the Year (twice), Greater Manchester CAMRA Pub of the Year 2022, and Wigan Cider Pub of the Year in both 2023 and 2024. The venue even earned national recognition in the Daily Mirror, which listed it among Britain’s top 16 pubs.

The business’s founders made the decision to sell as part of their plans to retire and spend more time in Spain, creating an opportunity for new owners to continue and expand upon its legacy. Through Blacks Business Brokers’ expert handling, a buyer was successfully secured, ensuring that Real Crafty will remain a cornerstone of the Wigan hospitality landscape for years to come.

The bar’s location was a key factor in its enduring success. Just five minutes from Wigan bus station and a short walk from both Wigan Wallgate and Wigan North Western train stations, Real Crafty combines accessibility with character. Its setting near the town centre yet slightly removed from the busiest retail areas gives it the dual advantage of footfall and community intimacy. With nearby parking and full disabled access, it has remained inclusive and inviting to a diverse clientele.

Occupying a single-storey building with stylish industrial-inspired décor, Real Crafty presents a contemporary blend of polished wood, steel, and chrome, softened by warm, ambient lighting. The site’s thoughtful design extends beyond aesthetics—it is functional and adaptable, supporting both daily operations and event hosting. The main bar accommodates around 85 guests, featuring an impressive 30 keg taps, up to five cask ales, and even an on-site draught canning service. Beyond this lies a spacious multifunctional room capable of hosting up to 120 people, complete with a stage for live performances, quiz nights, darts, and a 7 ft competition-standard pool table. This versatility has made the venue a preferred choice for private functions, parties, and even weddings.

The property also includes ample storage facilities, two cellars (one for cask beer and one for kegs), an office, and a staff rest room—all covered within the lease agreement. An electric hoist simplifies stock movement, reflecting the thoughtful investment in operational efficiency. The lease, which began in 2020 on a ten-year term at £2,004 per calendar month, provides a secure foundation for the incoming owners.

Real Crafty’s strong financial performance and operational structure made it an attractive proposition. With a loyal customer base and a respected brand identity, the business offered both immediate profitability and growth potential. Blacks Business Brokers’ marketing campaign highlighted not only the venue’s achievements but also its future opportunities—such as expanding the food offering and enhancing its already popular events programme.

Jordan Jackson, Sales Negotiator at Blacks Business Brokers, commented: “Real Crafty is one of those businesses that genuinely stands out. It’s more than just a bar—it’s a community hub, a creative space, and a local success story. From the moment we took it to market, we received strong interest from qualified buyers who recognised its reputation and profitability. We’re delighted to have achieved a successful sale for the vendors, allowing them to move forward with their retirement plans, while ensuring Real Crafty continues to thrive under passionate new ownership.”

The transaction underscores why more business owners are choosing Blacks Business Brokers when it comes time to sell. With an extensive network of serious buyers, a proven marketing platform, and a personal, transparent approach, Blacks ensures that each sale is handled with professionalism and care. For sellers like Real Crafty’s founders, this means peace of mind during a major life transition. For buyers, it ensures access to well-presented, properly vetted opportunities.

Blacks Business Brokers’ role extended beyond negotiation—it involved crafting a narrative that reflected Real Crafty’s identity. The sales team took time to understand what made the bar special: its atmosphere, its community role, and its operational quality. That understanding allowed them to communicate its strengths to potential buyers authentically and effectively. This attention to detail helped secure a swift and smooth sale.

Real Crafty’s new owners inherit not only an award-winning venue but also a foundation for continued innovation in the craft beer scene. With a loyal customer base, a well-designed premises, and a proven event model, the possibilities for future growth are significant.

The sale of Real Crafty is yet another example of how Blacks Business Brokers continues to facilitate successful transitions for independent businesses across the hospitality sector. Whether it’s a beloved pub, a growing restaurant, or a boutique hotel, Blacks’ experienced team understands the nuances of selling service-driven businesses and matching them with buyers who appreciate their value.