Godwin welcomes major UK hospitality operator to new roadside development

National hospitality operator Loungers has taken the lease on the largest unit at a major new retail development on the A1 in Rutland.

The firm will use the 4,500 sq ft unit at Ram Jam Services to showcase its new roadside dining brand, Brightside.

The purpose-built premises was developed by Godwin Developments and will serve the c. 41,500 vehicles that pass the site each day.

Ram Jam Services is situated alongside the main arterial route from Peterborough to Grantham, next to an established petrol station, a new bakery and only 15 minutes from Rutland Water.

Godwin has developed four units at the site, three of which are currently under offer.

Claudine Tracey, associate director, commercial development at Godwin Developments, said: “We are delighted to have secured Loungers’ new Brightside brand for our Ram Jam Services development. The site has historically been a thriving roadside destination and we are really pleased to be breathing new life into it, bringing amenities and consumer choice, attracting passing motorists as well as those who are travelling to and live in the local area.

“We remain very active in the roadside retail market, which is buoyant and growing rapidly. We have already built strong partnerships with all major market players in this space and we will continue to support them in expanding their networks and bringing brands closer to their customers.”

Alex Reilley, founder chairman of Loungers plc, said: “We believe that Brightside will really shake up what has become an uninspiring sector and that there is potential to roll out Brightside across the UK in the coming years. Our expertise in high-quality, great value all-day dining, developed through Lounge and Cosy Club, gives us confidence that Brightside can bring proper hospitality back to roadside dining across the UK.”

Ogle Property and Shakespeare Martineau acted for Godwin Developments on the deal.