Loungers, a UK-based café, bar and restaurant operator, has reached a significant milestone with the opening of its 250th location, Pionero Lounge, in Rochdale, UK.

The opening marks a continuation of Loungers' expansion strategy, which has seen multiple new openings since its interim financial results were announced in November 2023.

The group recently launched Coltello Lounge in Cramlington, Arturo Lounge in Penrith, Costero Lounge in Paignton, Consurio Lounge in Caerphilly and Centivo Lounge in Ashby-de-la-Zouch.

Loungers stated that its expansion will continue with upcoming openings in Bracknell, Bromsgrove, Chepstow, Ilkley, Macclesfield, Sidcup, Westwood Cross and Yeovil.

The new sites will occupy diverse premises. Some are new developments and others are on the sites of former banks, retail outlets and restaurants.

The company stated that there is a potential to establish at least 600 Lounges across the UK. Currently, it is on track to inaugurate 34 new sites within the financial year 2024.

The group also operates the Cosy Club and Brightside brands, with 36 and three locations respectively.

The economic impact of each new Lounge is substantial, with £1m invested in the local high street and an average of 30 new jobs created per site.

In 2023, Loungers generated 1,000 new jobs. It expects to recruit an equivalent number for 2024.

Loungers chairman and co-founder Alex Reilley said: “The opening of our 250th site is a hugely satisfying landmark for a business that started in 2002 in Bristol with a single café-bar called The Lounge.

“A lot has changed since then, but our commitment to providing our customers with excellent food and drink all day, while doing everything that we can to make a positive impact on the local community, has never wavered.”

“In many ways, it feels like we are only just getting started and there is so much more for us to go after".