Great Western Arcade just the tonic for gin maker’s new venture

THE firm behind Langley’s No. 8 Gin has chosen Birmingham as the location of its first permanent venture into the world of hospitality.

Charter Brands is setting up its new bar in one of the city’s most prominent shopping areas, the Great Western Arcade.

Opening this autumn, the firm has taken over units 32-33 in the arcade, one of which was formerly occupied by Sims shoe shop.

The bar, which will serve a selection of premium spirits, wines and beers, extends to more than 1,700 sq ft across a ground floor bar area and an upstairs events space.

Mark Dawkins, director at Charter Brands, said: “We have worked hard to build the Langley’s brand over the past few years and we’ve seen the city of Birmingham take real pride and ownership in it, so it makes absolute sense that our first permanent bar be situated in the heart of the city centre.

“Langley’s No. 8, which is distilled in Oldbury, is stocked in bars and restaurants around the city but, following a number of pop-up projects, we’re confident that now is the time for us to launch our own offering.”

He said the ‘buzz’ around gin showed no sign of abating and people’s desire to learn more about the history of the product, coupled with the growth of experiential events, made now the right time to open such a venue.

“We have been working closely with the asset management team and a number of partners to plan this project for well over a year. Our operational partners for the venture have a pedigree and CV that is second to none, and are the perfect partners to bring our vision to life,” he said.

He said the venue had been chosen as it bridged both the commercial quarter of Colmore Business District and the city’s central shopping area.

Refurbishment works on the retail units have now begun and ahead of its official opening, the Langley’s team will give a taster of what’s to come at the Birmingham Cocktail Weekend, which runs until Sunday (July 17).

The new bar – which is yet to reveal its name – joins a host of exclusive food and beverage (F&B) retailers, including Bistro 1847, Anderson & Hill, Bread Collection, Loki Wine, Sushi Passion and Treat Greek Deli.