Pub entrepreneur Scott Murray has relaunched his Bar Sport concept and announced grand plans to open in every UK town and city via franchise agreements.
Murray, who bought Bar Sport out of administration for an undisclosed sum last year, has opened the first franchise outlet at the Waterside in Merry Hill, West Midlands. The next site is due to be launched in Ipswich in September, with other openings planned for London, Glasgow and Exeter.
Bar Sport said: “The company has plans to open over eight new franchised outlets by the end of this year - with longer term plans to open in every town and city in the UK.
“These will be franchised outlets run by their owners and in tune with local taste. They will have been fully trained and supported by our head office staff.”
Murray said the company has had “over 1,000” enquiries about taking on a franchise.
Under the scheme, Bar Sport helps would-be franchisees secure a free-of-tie leasehold or freehold. Murray said: “Normally franchisees are finding sites for nil premium and with rent-free periods. It’s an excellent time to take a lease; [landlords] are desperate to get rid of their sites.”
Incomers pay a £35,000 franchise fee and Bar Sport takes 5% of turnover. Murray said in-going costs for franchisees average at around £200,000.
Murray said Bar Sport also provides marketing and PR assistance, and discounts are provided if franchisees buy drinks from nominated suppliers.
He said he plans to operate a “small number”, no more than six, managed Bar Sport sites. Currently one managed site is in operation, at the company’s home town of Cannock in the West Midlands.
Bar Sport Merry Hill, taken on ex-radio DJ Harry Dass, offers more than 50 screens showing live sport. Murray said:?“Waterside in Brierley Hill is a perfect location for us as the area has such a strong sporting fan base.
“We all know that pubs and other venues are having a tough time. To be successful, you have to be offering the public more than just food and drink.
“The reaction to Bar Sport elsewhere shows that we have a winning formula, with large crowds turning out.We offer fun, sporting excitement and good food and drink in a safe family orientated environment.”
Bar Sport was placed into administration in July 2008 when it operated four sites. Murray said at the time: "We probably timed it wrong with the current credit crunch. We’ve spent £4m over the past 18 months but it just hasn’t worked out for us.”
Before its collapse, Murray announced plans to operate up to 100 Bar Sport franchises.
