Wed 18th May 2016 - Harry Ramsden’s targets six pub sites by year-end after trade doubles at first Harry Ramsden’s targets six pub sites by year-end after trade doubles at first: Fish and chip shop operator Harry Ramsden’s is aiming to have six sites for its new pub format by the end of the year. The company has just secured its third site in partnership with Punch in the north of England and Harry Ramsden’s head of pub operations Gavin Mansfield told Propel it is now in discussions with other pub companies as it looks to expand the concept. He said: “We are actively looking at increasing the number of sites and we want to have six pubs by the end of the calendar year. In order to achieve that, we are having general conversations with other companies. We will take sites where they are available but of course do not impact on our existing restaurants. This is an opportunity for us to grow the business inland. We’re very strong in the seaside resorts but it is getting harder and harder to find sites in these areas. There is a great synergy between pubs and fish and chips. It’s working well and has long-term prospects.” He said trade had doubled at Harry Ramsden’s at the Wingerworth in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, since the format was launched in March. Mansfield said fish and chips accounted for between 55% and 58% of food sales at the site, which had been “a nice surprise” and the offer had been “tweaked accordingly”. He said: “It’s still a pub so we were keen pub dishes remained on the menu and have also increased the number of items. We’ve also added cocktails to the menu.” Mansfield added takeaway accounted for about 3% of sales but was growing week-on-week. He added: “It’s like a click and collect service – and customers can have a beer while they wait for their food.” The second site in partnership with Punch will open at the Three Bridges in South Queensferry overlooking the Firth of Forth next Friday (27 May). As well as fish and chips, the menu will also offer traditional Scottish dishes. Drinks will include a selection of Scottish gins alongside local lagers. Mansfield added: “It’s a roadside business and it’s a fantastic site – it’s got huge appeal. We have been very careful with our site selection. We are taking sites that add value for both sides.” Punch development director David Wigham said: “We’re delighted to be working with Harry Ramsden’s to build on the food offering at our pubs.”