Millstone Public House Opens in East Hants
Millstone Public House opened in East Hants on July 14, 2024, serving elevated pub fare in a come-as-you-are atmosphere.
Investing in East Hants
Adam and Joanne McCullough had a clear vision when they founded Millstone Public House in 2016 – provide a relaxing environment where friends, family and community can gather for a great meal and a few drinks. Their vision was a big hit with customers and their first Dartmouth location was quickly followed by a Bedford location in 2018 and another Dartmouth location at King’s Wharf in 2021. When they decided to open a fourth location, Adam and Joanne selected the Corridor Region of East Hants due to the community’s strong population growth and demand for more amenities.
One of the biggest challenges businesses have when entering a new market is finding commercial space, especially in a market with a low commercial vacancy rate like East Hants. The Economic and Business Development Division of the Municipality of East Hants provided Adam and Joanne with site selection services, including market analytics and connections to potential commercial space opportunities, to help them find the perfect location. After much consideration, Adam and Joanne secured a 4,000 square foot newly constructed unit at 1135 Highway 2 in Lantz, which borders Elmsdale and is home to two up-and-coming master-planned communities, Kiln Creek and Wickwire Station.
Creating Local Jobs and Supporting Immigration
Millstone Public House employs over 110 people, with 26 employees at its East Hants location. Approximately 25% of the business’ workforce is comprised of skilled foreign workers. In June 2024, Millstone Public House became a designated employer under the Atlantic Immigration Program, which helps employers hire qualified candidates for jobs they haven’t been able to fill locally while providing a pathway to permanent residency for skilled foreign workers. Adam shared that one of the biggest issues in attracting and retaining foreign talent is the lack of available housing and public transit. To address this issue, they have invested in housing for workers within walking distance of the Lantz location.
Committing to Community
Millstone Public House prides itself on meals made with fresh ingredients and quality food. Joanne explained that one of their biggest challenges is keeping prices friendly with rising costs. They work to find cost savings in-house and with suppliers while always maintaining quality. Despite rising costs, Adam and Joanne are committed to giving back to sports teams and community organizations. 25 cents from every pint of Local Hero Pale Lager sold is donated to local sports teams. This top-selling beer salutes the coaches, managers, volunteers and families that stand behind athletes as local heroes. Millstone Public House supports all sports as “sport is the heart of any great Canadian community, and ours is no different”.
If you are interested in starting a business in East Hants, connect with the Economic and Business Development Division by emailing business@easthants.ca or by calling 1-888-883-4355.
