Orchid launches new style carvery – one site sees 62% sales growth: Managed operator Orchid Group has launched the first of its new style carvery pubs which aim to take eating out to the next level with a unique inclusive, community style. The pubs retain a high focus on quality British produce and value for money but has opened up eating out to different groups of people, all under one roof, by building extra walls. Warm and welcoming, the new carveries are taking a different road from competitors. Where some pub companies are removing walls to create large, open plan pubs, Orchid is putting in glass walls to ensure the spaces work for different groups of people at the same time. “Massive spaces don’t work for us – they feel too empty even with several groups in and don’t create a warm, friendly atmosphere,” said Simon Dodd, commercial and people director at Orchid Group. “Instead, we’re actually breaking down barriers by putting up special glass walls in our new style carvery pubs. These walls allow us to create spaces that are connected but retain their separate characters, meaning all sorts of customers can enjoy the same quality food and drink without one single group dominating the feel of the pub.” The glass walls allow each group of people, whether lads watching the football, families enjoying some quality time together or older guests who are part of the Diamond Club loyalty scheme, to enjoy the pubs at the same time. They can hold their conversations without having to shout over others but still feel part of the pub community. The re-zoning of the pubs has been a real success and, along with the commitment to British produce and ingredients to help reduce food miles, is creating an exceptional offer in the pub sector. At The Young Pretender in Kings Langley, General Manager Jenny Searle says the pub now has a much more homely feel. Since the redesign the pub has seen year-on-year sales increase by 28% as it now attracts a wider demographic. “Previously we had a single large space that was more like an extended bar, now we have a dedicated dining space that is personalised and homely. Customers tell us it feels much more warm, comfy and inviting. The glass partitions have allowed us to create areas for different groups, so friends can come and enjoy a pint while watching the football but families and couples have their own space for enjoying a quiet meal.” The Ainsworth Arms in Manchester is another of the new style carveries and General Manager Celia Heaton says customers are very pleased with the changes. The pub has seen a 62% increase in like-for-like sales over last year. “The interior is now much brighter and fresher with a colour palette of pale blues and greys,” she said. “It is more like an inviting, friendly living room. It feels light and summery and our customers are really loving the new look. The food offer remains the same high quality with a focus on British Red Tractor assured meat which always keeps people coming back for more.”