Bristol based Loungers chain to be sold for £338 million

Loungers, the café, bar, and restaurant chain that began in Bristol with an initial investment of just £10,000, is set to be sold to American investment firm Fortress Investment Group in a deal worth £338 million.

The company, founded in 2002, opened its first Lounge bar in a former opticians on North Street, Bedminster. Over two decades, Loungers has grown into a major UK hospitality brand, operating 280 venues nationwide under its Lounge, Cosy Club, and Brightside brands.

Loungers has become a staple in suburban high streets and small town centres with its Lounge venues, while its Cosy Club restaurants cater to city centre locations. The company’s expansion reflects its success in creating a relaxed, all-day dining experience tailored to local communities.

Fortress Investment Group, which has previously invested in British businesses such as Majestic Wines and Peach Pubs & Co., confirmed it has made an offer for the UK-based chain.

Picture credit: Loungers