______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Lane7
“ In fact , our locals ’ favorite cocktail bar sets the standard for the kind of drinks we want to provide . We are not looking to offer the food and drink options traditionally found in a family-oriented bowling alley – which are excellent for those looking to cater to that market – we need our bar offer to be able to compete with that of our neighbors . For instance , when we are in cities like Bristol or Manchester , and our neighbors are specialist cocktail bars or craft beer pubs , we absolutely need to match their standard . While this was a choice we made when we first started , it is now no longer a choice as we are in direct competition with local businesses . We want people to come visit us , and to do so , we have to surpass their offerings .”.
With Lane7 opening a new venue in Birmingham ’ s Bullring and Grand Central shopping center , Tim explains the advantages of this specific location . “ We have always strived to get an external entrance for our venues . If Lane7 was a family brand , we would be happy with just an internal entrance , but the reality is that we trade until as late as 2 am . Hence , we need an external entrance as the shopping center closes before that time . Our Bullring and Central location features an external entrance situated near the railway station , in the heart of the city , making it easier for large groups to arrive for a night out . This site is unique because it was once an office , but with the landlord ’ s assistance , we were able to gain access to the main shopping center , which is ideal for daytime trade during holidays and football season . Location is key , but easy access into the location is just as important ,” he says .
Looking to the future , Lane7 is poised for expansion into Europe , as Tim highlights . “ Beyond growth in the UK , we strive to expand in mainland Northern Europe to expose the brand to asset managers there ,” he ends . ■
www . lane7 . co . uk
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