Casual Dining Group (CDG) has acquired an exclusive contract from Italian wine producers Feudi di San Gregorio, to operate its DUBL wine bar concept in the UK, with the first site planned for Luton Airport.
CDG plans to target airports and travel hubs to expand DUBL, a premium concept selling sparkling wines, Italian meats, cheeses, and oysters. The company told MCA that the main focus for openings will be airports and other travel hubs, but it is also open to pop-up and retail store opportunities, ”should the right sites arise”.
There are currently three DUBL wine bar in Italy, including one at Naples Airport.
The first UK DUBL, which features an island bar unit seating 25 people, will open at Luton Airport in late February, joining CDG’s Bella Italia and Oriel Grande Brasserie sites at the airport.
As well as travel hubs, CDG is open to pop-up and retail store opportunities for DUBL.
Mark Nelson, managing director of concessions and franchising at CDG, said: “We are delighted to add DUBL to our ever growing concessions portfolio. Feudi di San Gregorio are passionate wine producers and we’re confident that with our operating experience DUBL will be well received by UK consumers.
“The UK sparkling wine category has seen exponential growth over recent years and we feel there is scope for more DUBL outlets. While our main focus for openings will be airports and other travel hubs, we’re also open to pop-up and retail store opportunities, should the right sites arise.”
Antonio Capaldo, chairman of Feudi di San Gregorio winery, said: “We are extremely excited to partner with Casual Dining Group to bring the DUBL concept and our wines to the UK market. We’re passionate about making excellent wines and have been searching for a partner who is equally passionate about creating outstanding customer experiences – CDG are the ideal match. We’re confident the customers are going to love the new offer.”
