Revolution Bars Group to open first new sites in four years as it invest £3.5m into new Exeter and Preston venues

Revolution Bars Group, which operates Revolution, Revolución de Cuba, Playhouse and Founders & Co, is back on the new openings trail for the first time in four years, as it’s set to open two new Revolution venues this month.

The two sites, based in Exeter and Preston, take the Group’s total number of venues to 69, with Revolution now accounting for 49 of those.

The new openings embody the continued positive growth and development of the business, following its return to profitability and posting year-on-year sales ahead of pre-pandemic levels earlier this year.

The Grade II-listed, 720 capacity Exeter site is located on Queen Street – a prime, central location linking the High Street with both the Central and St David’s train stations, as well as the main university campus.

Following an initial £2m investment, the site is expected to create more than 70 jobs in the city, providing an economic boost ahead of the summer months and the return of the student population to university life in September.

The Preston opening hails a much-anticipated return to the city for Revolution. The new 600 capacity venue is situated on the junction of Fishergate and Friargate – the two main pedestrianised streets leading to the railway station and the university. The Preston site will also obtain a substantial initial investment, around £1.5m, and will create approximately 50 jobs.

Both sites will provide guests with the business’ signature range of 50 vodkas, including its selection of more than 18 Revolution flavours, as well as its quality cocktail serves, award-winning food offering, and unrivalled all-day entertainment offering.

Rob Pitcher, CEO of Revolution Bars Group, said: “After the last two years, with their myriad challenges, it’s hugely encouraging that our business is in a position to restart its expansion.

“We are incredibly excited to add these new sites in Exeter and Preston to our portfolio. They’re both centrally located statement buildings, providing us the perfect backdrop to host unforgettable nights out for our guests.

“The road ahead is very bright indeed for us, although the industry is still fraught with obstacles in the form of inflation, soaring utilities bills and depleting consumer confidence in the face of the cost-of-living crisis. It’s vital that the sector is able to continue its recovery uninterrupted and that support is made available when and where possible.”

The business has recently re-opened sites in Cheltenham, Manchester and Newcastle and has more openings and refurbishments in the pipeline.