Inception Group eyes regional and international expansion

Inception Group is looking to take its immersive bar concepts outside of London and is exploring both regional and international expansion.

Co-founder Charlie Gilkes told The Caterer he saw “a lot of opportunity in other cities in the UK”.

“There’s more growth in London but there’s definitely [potential for] growth in cities like Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool and Bristol,” said Gilkes.

“We also think our concept would work well in the US and the Middle East. We’re really excited about the thought of different territories because it’s a different challenge.

“Someone once said to me, treat a different city in the UK like a different country. It’s a step we’ve been talking about for a long time and one we’re taking slowly. But it’s a step I hope will happen within the next year or two.”

Inception Group launched its first bar, 1920s-themed speakeasy Barts, in an old squash court in Chelsea in 2009. It has since expanded to 15 sites across the capital with its brands including Italian party bar Bunga Bunga, Victorian-inspired Mr Foggs and 1940’s-era pub Cahoots.

Gilkes did not confirm where the group’s first regional site will open, but restaurant brands Caravan and Blacklock both opened their first restaurants outside London in Manchester last year. Meanwhile, Lina Stores will launch in Manchester next spring while Big Mamma Group is opening in Birmingham next month following its success in the capital.

Gilkes said: “There’s a lot going on [in Manchester] and it feels like increasingly it’s becoming the second city after London. It’s just a move you can’t get wrong. We’re taking our time to hope we get it right.

“It’s a lot easier for us to keep opening in London, but [outside London] is a challenge that really excites me. So, watch this space.”

Inception’s latest 1940’s-inspired bar, Cahoots: Postal Office, launched in London Bridge earlier this month.

The full interview with Charlie Gilkes will be published tomorrow.