Thu 8th Oct 2015 - Enterprise lines up five sites for Rupert Clevely joint venture Enterprise lines up five sites for Rupert Clevely joint venture: Enterprise Inns and Rupert Clevely have launched Hippo Inns with the opening of the joint-venture’s first managed pub – and have lined up four more sites. Hippo is the first partnership from Enterprise’s “Managed Expert” business where the company is looking to partner with industry-leading managed house operators in order to benefit from their retailing flair and capability. The first pub under the Hippo brand, The Signal in Forest Hill, south London, will open today (Thursday, 8 October). The Signal will offer craft beers, ales and cocktails, as well as a selection of wines chosen by master of wine John Clevely. Well-priced and delicious food will be served from the rotisserie and grill. Hippo, which will focus on developing great food-led and craft beer pubs at the heart of communities throughout London, is led by Rupert Clevely. Rupert previously founded and ran Geronimo Inns, the London-based managed pubs operator. Enterprise has been working with Rupert and his team since May this year. Together they have identified the next four sites where Hippo pubs will be opened in the future. Rupert Clevely, of Hippo Inns, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Enterprise. This is a unique opportunity for both parties. I have selected a great team and we look forward to building a terrific business together.” Simon Townsend, chief executive at Enterprise Inns, said: “This is an exciting partnership for Enterprise. Rupert is one of the country’s leading managed house operators with a strong pedigree in developing great pubs at the heart of communities. These are early days in our managed house ambitions at Enterprise but the opening of The Signal represents a significant milestone as we continue to deliver on our plans.” Enterprise continues to discuss managed partnership opportunities with other pub retailers and will update stakeholders on those talks as soon as appropriate.