MA500 Member Profile: Andrew Stones on why Liverpool is a good bet
Q. Why should operators consider opening a site in Liverpool?
A. Liverpool is an amazingly vibrant city with a strong identity and culture. There is a phenomenal amount of investment and ongoing redevelopment happening in the city, so a good availability of sites and plenty of opportunities for operators. It goes without saying that the Liverpudlians like to go out and have a good time and party, and we love hosting them at Be At One.
Are you in the club?
The MA500 club is open to multi-site pub operators and runs three nationwide events a year that include business-focused presentations from top experts and owner-operators.
Each event is followed by an evening networking study tour of new and exciting venues in the area.
To register your interest in attending the next MA500 meeting in Liverpool on 18 May, email rachel.ward@wrbm.com.
Q. What makes Liverpool stand out from the other big cities in the area?
A. Liverpool isn’t a sprawling city, so whereas some large metropolitan areas have many different eating and drinking neighbourhoods, in Liverpool they are all within easy walking distance of each other.
Q. What is the competition like?
A. There is a thriving bar and restaurant trade and a good selection of independent and branded operators, and this compelling mix means there really is something for everyone, whatever their preference when choosing a venue.
Q. What opportunities does the city present?
A. We have been really pleased with how well we’ve been received in the city. Our bar may only be six months old, but we’ve quickly developed a great regular trade with more and more people enjoying the unique Be At One atmosphere. Revenue has more than doubled from opening and just last week we had record trading on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. We can only see that trend continuing.
