Bavarian Beerhouse: Thirst for success

Oktoberfest may soon be coming to the nearest Bavarian Beerhouse. This is the vision pursued by Bavarian Beerhouse in London, who is offering its successful concept to franchisees across the UK and Ireland via its newly-formed company, Bavarian Beerhouse Franchise.

Established in 2005, Bavarian Beerhouse 's first restaurant/bar on City Road (London Islington) has made a profit from year one. The number of guests has risen continuously, as has turnover. Following three years of successful operations in central London its owners, René (45) and Sabine von Reth (39), have proven that the combination of Bavarian food, drink and entertainment is a winning formula.

Inspired by Munich's renowned beerhouse, the Hofbräuhaus, the Bavarian Beerhouse is currently the only authentic Bavarian restaurant in the UK. The menu features authentic Bavarian food, such as schnitzel (pork escalope), Munich pork roast and of course sausages and sauerkraut. All meat is imported from Germany to ensure the best quality. All staff are German, and the waitresses wear Bavarian-style dresses ("dirndls") and serve German beers in one-litre glasses, so-called Steins. DJs and Oompah bands perform on a regular basis, and the events calendar features a German Beer Day, Carnival, the Oktoberfest and much more.

Bavarian Beerhouse is a group venue, with people travelling some distance to experience to the "Bavarian feeling". The restaurant and bar on City Road in Islington, London, is popular with locals, the city crowd (e.g. for after work drinks, leaving dos, Christmas Parties) and groups celebrating birthday parties and hen or stag nights.

The venue has several function rooms, allowing guests privacy if required. All rooms are kept in a rustic, Bavarian style, with long wooden tables and benches for 10 people.

Sabine von Reth, who founded the Bavarian Beerhouse with her husband René, says: "After three years of trading we're proud of our success and ready for expansion. The turnover and sales figures are speaking for themselves. The idea of bringing traditional Bavarian food, drink and entertainment to places such as Manchester, Dublin, Birmingham or elsewhere is very exciting for us. We would like to hear from enterprising pub landlords who are keen to try out a new business model."

Nikki Birches, franchise manager of Bavarian Beerhouse, says: "The current situation is perfect for entering the franchise business. The global financial crisis means many pubs and restaurants are having a hard time. However, the Bavarian 'Oktoberfest' concept is doing extremely well in London, and what works in the capital is bound to work in the regions." 

Investment level: Approx £50,000+
Website:
www.bavarian-beerhouse.com
Email:
franchise@bavarian-beerhouse.com
Phone:
0844 330 2005
classification:
Restaurant