Food start-up Wahu aims to steal sandwich shops’ lunch
A YOUNG entrepreneur is preparing to launch Wahu Food – a new concept designed to appeal to time-pressed, health-conscious consumers.
Originally from Derbyshire, 24-year-old Jamie Barr – whose family was behind the growth of international convenience foods supplier Hazlewood Foods – has taken a 15-year lease on the former ‘Eat’ sandwich shop at next to NatWest on Spinningfields.
Backed with £300,000 of family money, he is transforming the 1,300 sq ft unit into his new restaurant and take-away, which is due to open in mid-June.
The Manchester University graduate said: “I have been planning this for 18 months but wanted to wait for the right site, which we now have. Location is vital and this is the perfect location as Spinningfields is continuing to grow.
“I do believe Wahu is different to what is out there already. We’ll serve hearty, healthy meals at a good price. Our customers will be able to design their own meals. Meat and fish will be served straight from the grill onto wraps, rice, pasta or salads.”
Wahu – which takes its name for a Hawaiian island – will be able to seat 48 people inside, while an extended outdoor space will accommodate up to 52.
He believes the city’s first ‘healthy food bar’ will be well-received by the thousands of professionals working in Spinningfields.
“Wahu is aimed a people who want more than a sandwich – I’ve done research into the market in Australia and the US, where the demand for healthy food on the go is proven.
“I think the concept is going to be very popular with workers who have maybe gone to the gym at lunchtime and are heading back to the office.”
The commercial property team at Manchester law firm JMW advised Wahu on the lease.
Partner Thomas Pearson said: “It is exciting to be involved with an up-and-coming and innovative food concept to be based in Spinningfields. I think we are all looking forward to having a new food outlet based near our office in Spinningfields and get a chance to taste the food.”
