Inventive founders join with TV chef Simon Rimmer to launch new venture

Simon Rimmer joins Inventive founders

Roy Ellis and Neil Macleod, founders of Inventive Leisure, have teamed up with high-profile chef Simon Rimmer to launch a new venture called the Flying Pig & Lobster.

It will operate two development vehicles — modern traditional pub sites and a high street-focused casual-dining format.

The new company, backed by several private shareholders, will operate both formats at its first acquisition, the Elephant pub and Bubble Room in Woolton Village, Liverpool, to launch next spring.

Ellis told the Publican's Morning Advertiser sister title M&C Report he hoped to add one or two more sites by the end of next year then ramp up the rollout to five the following 12 months and possibly a dozen thereafter.

He has already held talks with Star Pubs & Bars, owner of the Elephant, and Enterprise Inns, regarding further possible sites.

Ellis said: “We believe traditional pubs offer a great opportunity for experienced multiple operators such as ourselves. We also believe there is a gap in the high-street casual-dining market for a concept that caters for everyone and has a bit of oomph about it.

“While the pub will offer traditional food, the restaurant format will look at the higher end of the casual-dining model, offering lobster, barbecue, burgers and live music.”

Ellis said Rimmer has a “decent amount in shares” in the new venture and will oversee the food development side of the business.