First Rankin franchise opens in Bangor

Celebrity Irish chef Paul Rankin has announced the first franchised Rankin Café, which opened its doors in Bangor, County Down.

Franchisee Robert Craig will operate the 70-seat café in the high street, which employs 15 staff and features a soundproof player area for up to 40 children.

It will serve a selection of healthy breakfasts, snacks, lunches and a full children's menu.

The Bangor café brings the total number of Rankin Cafés in operation to 10.

"We have always looked to expand the growing number of outlets and through our newly developed franchise programme we are able to do this," said Rankin.

He is seeking other franchised sites in shopping centres, airports and leisure centres.

There are no other confirmed franchise agreements as yet but marketing manager Chris Love anticipated one or two more openings by the end of the year.

The group also operates the Cayenne restaurant and Roscoff Brasserie in Belfast, along with two Rain City bistros and a bakery.

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By Alix Young

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