Stonegate is to open the tenth of its evolved student bar concept, the common room, in Oxford this week with a further site in Reading due to open next month, M&C Report has learnt.
Vince Williams, concept development director at the Ian Payne-led operator, told M&C Report that another two openings were expected by Easter with four more planned for the summer and an aim to have 20 by the end of the year.
The bars, which have typically taken on former Scream pubs, are based around American barbecue food and craft beer.
However, Williams said the company would be focussing on improving both its food and drinks offer as the year progressed.
He said: “What we have so far works really well and it is not just students that have been attracted. What we want to do now is really focus on the different elements of the concept and make sure they are absolutely at the top of what can be delivered.
“Part of that will be developing our breakfast offer so that we are making the most of every day part. We are aware that on the food side we now need to take this to another level, including better vegetarian options.
“On drinks, it’s about making sure that staff knowledge is absolutely spot on and that we are stron in every category.”
