The founders of Allotment, the Manchester based gin bar concept, have revealed plans to open a collection of themed bars and restaurants across the UK.
Gavin Williams and James Kennedy opened their second Allotment gin bar in Birkdale earlier this year after securing £65,000 loan from MSIF, a Liverpool based loan and equity provider.
The friends, who opened the first Allotment in Manchester’s Northern Quarter in Summer 2014, want to open site number three in Liverpool City Centre.
The funding allowed for a full refurbishment of the Birkdale venue, transforming the former HSBC building on Liverpool Road into a botanically themed gin bar and restaurant.
The bar has retained numerous features from the old bank, including the grand marble floor and the bank vault.
The vault, which was previously a working safe for the bank, has been transformed into a a separate, exclusive dining area for groups of 10-12 people.
Williams said: “We have spent three years refining the Allotment brand in Manchester and have found the feedback to be phenomenal. Birkdale is a beautiful village full of independent traders who work together to create a vibrant and buzzing community; and it is an honour to be part of that.
“Our ambition is to continue growing the Allotment throughout the country, with Liverpool City Centre being the home of Allotment number 3.”
Andy Jones, MSIF investment manager, said: “Allotment Birkdale brings a unique offering of food and drink to Birkdale Village. Both Gavin and James have masses of experience within the industry. Their innovative ideas and previous success have put them in a great position for making Allotment Birkdale a great bar for the area. It has been great to work with them both and I’m really excited to see how the venture progresses.”
