Refurbishment firm wins £2.5m contracts

SUCCESS . . . Colin Drury, of Medlock FRB

LEISURE contractor Medlock FRB is celebrating £2.5 million of contract wins as Britain's casual dining boom continues to fuel growth for the refurbishment specialist.

Medlock has secured its first scheme for steakhouse brand Miller & Carter and further projects for Pizza Express, Thaikhun and Greene King.

Work is under way at a Miller & Carter site in Chester, a Thaikhun restaurant in Bath and a Pizza Express in Moseley, Birmingham.

Meanwhile Medlock has won contracts with Greene King to convert three sites acquired when it took over Spirit Pub Company last year.

The Cotton Kier in Bolton will be rebranded as a Hungry Horse, while The Mascrat Manor in Warrington and The Outside Inn, Blackpool, will be revamped into Farmhouse Inn venues.

Steve Taylor, Medlock's head of business development, said: "Casual dining is the fastest-growing area of our business and these latest projects build on our success in the sector. Recently-completed fit-outs include Dukes 92 bar and the El Gato Negro restaurant in Manchester, an All Bar One venue for Mitchells & Butlers at the intu Trafford Centre, and projects for Bella Italia and Barburrito at the intu Metrocentre in Gateshead.

"We're delighted to have secured our first contract with Miller & Carter, which is another Mitchells & Butlers brand, along with repeat business from a number of major chains. Research shows consumers are looking to treat themselves and their families by eating out more frequently on social or special occasions.

"The casual dining sector is leading this growth, because of the diversity of choice and value for money it offers. As demand increases, it is leading to a raft of new openings and investment.

"With our expertise and track record in delivering this type of project on time, safely and to the highest standards, Medlock is well-placed to be part of the continued expansion in this sector, as well as seeing strong ongoing demand for our services across the hospitality and leisure sectors."