THE latest part of a Bristol cafe chain's fast-growing empire looks set to open in Westbury-on-Trym.
As reported in the Post the Lounger group, launched in Bristol by three friends ten years ago, is planning a major expansion after winning backing from its bank.
The company currently owns more than 20 branches and is considering opening another 250 outlets.
A planning application has been lodged with Bristol City Council to open a new cafe/bar in the centre of Westbury village which is currently occupied by Blockbuster Video.
The new bar would be the sixth in Bristol and would be big enough to seat around 150 diners.
The plan would be to open until 11.30pm each day and if it went ahead the new bar would create around 20 new full and part-time jobs.
Several local residents have objected to the planning application but there has also been support from other residents.
Loungers decided to move into Westbury when it meerged that Blockbuster was looking at closing the store. Although the shop has been on the market for four months there has been no interest from other retailers. The firm is applying for change of use as the building currently has permission to be used as a retail store.
The Loungers formula was first launched in 2002 by friends Alex Reilley, Jake Bishop and Dave Reid.
The original aim was to create a casual and welcoming bar for their friends and family to use.
The decision to serve food in the Bedminster bar came at the last minute and helped to make the chain the success it has become.
The concept is based around neighbourhood bars in suburbs which have seen an influx of professionals. Lounge bars serve food throughout the day and then become bars in the evening.
The company also has a sister chain called the Cosy Club, which is aimed at town centres rather than the suburbs.
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