12 new jobs for Lincoln as music venue operator extends footprint

Independent coffee and live music venue operator Stray’s is set to create up to 12 new jobs after taking new premises in Lincoln.

The company has invested over £150,000 in its move to the city’s former Patisserie Valerie outlet, which has been let by Banks Long & Co.

The new venue is due to open in the Spring.

Co-owner Mat Short said: “We know our brand is ideally suited to Newark and we see a synergy with Lincoln, where we are confident we can build a loyal customer base in a city where people love to live, shop and support independents which use local suppliers and create local jobs.

“I’ve always loved the historic part of the city and wandering around the Castle, then walking down Steep Hill and emerging into the High Street, where we are delighted to be leasing the former Patisserie Valerie premises.

“Banks Long & Co associate Lewis Cove is familiar with our Newark business and alerted me to the fact that the Lincoln shop was available, so this investment fits in perfectly with the timing of our continuing expansion.

“These are large premises in Lincoln’s busy High Street, so they will take several weeks to fit out in our quirky style and we are very excited about this venture.

“Coffee is what we’ve become really well known for, but we’ll also be offering soft drinks, made-to-order food, homemade cakes and, of course, bottled wines and beers. Added to that, we’ll be putting on live jazz every week, promoting local and national jazz musicians alike. It’s a fantastic time for us!”

Stray’s started life in Newark in 2003. The company also has premises in Oakham and is planning to open in Stamford in March.