There’s a fresh new look at one of Alloa’s familiar local pubs, and a very familiar face behind the bar!
The Thistle, on Junction Place in Alloa, has officially reopened following a six-figure investment by Amber Taverns, bringing a fantastic new look, improved facilities and 15 new jobs to the town.
But while plenty has changed inside, one thing remains the same – the warm welcome from Debbie McInally, who has been part of the pub for an incredible 18 years.!
18 Years at the Pub – and Now Debbie’s Running the Show!
For Debbie, The Thistle is much more than just a workplace.
Having spent almost two decades at the pub, including managing it under its previous owners, she’s built lasting friendships with customers and become a familiar face in the local community.
Now, following Amber Taverns’ investment, Debbie has taken the exciting opportunity to become The Thistle’s Operator, giving her the chance to put her own stamp on a pub she knows inside out.
Debbie said:
“I’ve worked at The Thistle for 18 years and always cared enormously about the pub and its customers, so having the opportunity to take it forward with Amber is incredibly exciting.
“I know the local market and what our customers want, and now we have a fantastic new pub and a great team to deliver it. There has already been a real buzz around Alloa about us reopening and I’m looking forward to building on that.”
A Great New Look for a Proper Local Pub
The Thistle has undergone an extensive refurbishment, creating a refreshed and welcoming place for the people of Alloa to meet, relax and enjoy a drink.
Whether it’s a catch-up with friends, a few drinks after work or a weekend watching the football, the pub has been designed with the local community at its heart.
Customers can look forward to a great choice of drinks, excellent value and a friendly atmosphere, with Debbie and her team ready to welcome everyone through the doors.
Live Sport, Darts and Plenty of Atmosphere!
Sports fans are in for a treat at the new-look Thistle.
With TVs throughout the pub, three Sky boxes and coverage from both Sky Sports and TNT Sports, there’s plenty of opportunity to catch the biggest live sporting events.
And if you’d rather get involved in the action yourself, there are two darts boards ready for a friendly game or a little healthy competition!
Whether you’re cheering on your team, stepping up to the oche or simply enjoying a pint with friends, The Thistle has something for everyone.
Proud to Be Part of Alloa
The Thistle has a long connection with Alloa’s pub and brewing heritage.
Previously known as the Junction Bar, the pub sits on Junction Place, an area historically associated with Maclay & Co’s Thistle Brewery.
Now, with a new chapter beginning, Amber Taverns is proud to be investing in the pub’s future while keeping its local character firmly at the centre of everything.
Alex Ozobia, Area Manager at Amber Taverns, said:
“Debbie is a huge part of why we’re so excited about the business. She has been here for 18 years, knows the pub inside out and has an incredible connection with its customers and the wider community.
“Under our operator-managed model, she now has the opportunity to really make the business her own, while having the investment, infrastructure and support of Amber behind her.”
Come and See the New-Look Thistle!
The doors are open, the drinks are ready and Debbie and the team can’t wait to welcome you.
Whether you’ve been visiting for years or have never stepped inside before, there’s never been a better time to discover The Thistle.
Find us at The Thistle, 1 Junction Place, Alloa, FK10 1JW.
Pop in, say hello and raise a glass to an exciting new chapter for The Thistle