Bierkeller chain seeks franchisees

Bavarian Beerhouse, the London-based group specialising in German-style bierkellers, is offering potential franchisees the chance to recreate the...

Bavarian Beerhouse, the London-based group specialising in German-style bierkellers, is offering potential franchisees the chance to recreate the 'oompah' experience in their own backyard.

The group currently operates two bar-restaurants in the City of London, but co-founder and marketing director Sabine von Reth believes that in a world where historically successful chains have fallen on hard times there is a "desperate need" for new concepts.

"Just selling beer and nibbles isn't enough any more. Guests are willing to spend money but they want something in return," she said.

"Our operation offers a unique Oktoberfest experience concept: food, drink and entertainment.

"We already have a winning formula in our two existing sites and we're very excited by the idea of bringing traditional Bavarian hospitality to places such as Edinburgh, Glasgow, Manchester, Dublin or Birmingham," she added.

Von Reth said the group would like to hear from potential investors and what she called "enterprising pub landlords who are keen to try out a proven business concept".

Franchisees would be required to invest £160,000, covering premises improvement, opening stock, equipment and launch costs. An upfront franchise fee of £25,000 is also required, which covers a five-year licence to run a Bavarian Beerhouse and a five-year extension dependent upon performance. Monthly management fees come in at five per cent of revenue, and there is also a marketing fee of 1.5 per cent of monthly sales.