Spinningfields launches competition to run permanent café site
Manchester's Spinningfields development is set to launch a competition enabling six up-and-coming food and beverage operators to battle it out for the chance to run a permanent café-style operation on the estate.
The competition, called ‘The Kitchens Leftbank' will be launched on Thursday 12 June at 6.30pm at Quay House and is open to any innovative food and beverage entrepreneurs who have an existing business but are keen to take it to the next level by running a permanent café.
The launch event on the 12 June will offer operators the chance to learn more about the competition and sign up to submit an initial pitch.
All entrants will have a week to submit an initial pitch, which should focus on concept, originality/creativity, product and viability. The 12 most exciting concepts will be shortlisted and will then need to submit a business plan within 10 days and also give a short presentation to the judging panel.
Six finalists will be chosen and provided with a licensed unit at Leftbank for a period of between six and 12 months, with each café opening its doors on 1 September.
The six finalists will be provided with a fitted unit with a kitchen, storage, refrigeration, service counter and indoor and outdoor seating areas. The space will not be branded or decorated, with each operator given the opportunity to make their mark and create a unique amenity for Spinningfields' workers and the local community.
After six to 12 months of trading, a winner will be selected through a range of criteria; sales, concept, product, social media, brand, the sustainability of the concept and a public vote. The winning vendor will be given a prime unit for their business and secure the backing and partnership of developer Allied London to allow for the continued development of their business venture.
Michael Ingall, chief executive of Allied London, said: "In international cities around the world, we've seen the most innovative, independent businesses get an opportunity to operate alongside premium brands. Manchester has a flourishing food and beverage scene but the city centre isn't an affordable location for new businesses to really make a go of it. The launch of The Kitchens Leftbank at Spinningfields will give these operators an unrivalled opportunity to establish themselves without the extensive overheads other small business' face when starting up, with the winner also having the advantage of ongoing support from Allied London and the team at Spinningfields."
