Orchid invests in late-night sector
Managed operator Orchid is mid-way through a £1.5m investment programme at some of the late-night venues it runs within the Premium Bars and Restaurants business it took over last year.
Examples include: Bambu nightclub re-launching in Newcastle's Bigg Market, with a "fresh, vibrant look". Innovations include Party Pods Private karaoke, which can be hired for parties of up to 16.
The venue is taking an average of circa £30,000 per week in its typically quieter time of year, an increase of 28% compared to pre-investment.
City Vaults, also in the Bigg Market, is now the biggest sports bar and entertainment venue in Newcastle, Orchid said.
The offer now includes 3D TVs and 40 HD plasma screens, plus a re-branded twin room basement club The Underground.
Beach in Belfast has reopened after a £250,000 refurbishment, with a complete redesign including a multi-room offer.
It took £40,000 in its opening weekend, up 30% year on year.
Marketing manager Adam Bowers said: "We're mid-way through the £1.5m investment programme, and the next phase will see investments at venues across the North including the Cotton Factory Huddersfield, Halo/Quilted Llama in Leeds, Sea in Newcastle and Irene & Nans, Bar Bacca & La Lea in Belfast.
"The High Street and late night market has always been challenging. With pubs, bars and restaurants now open later, customers have plenty of choice.
"Those companies who fail to invest in their retail offer are less able to differentiate themselves and evolve in what is now a highly competitive market.
"Currently, Orchid is one of the few businesses actively investing in the late night market, and the results, so far, have been very encouraging."
