Shake Shack, the renowned New York-based burger brand, has officially opened its first Midlands restaurant at Hammerson’s Bullring & Grand Central in Birmingham. The new 2,866 sq ft eatery, located in Grand Central, offers Shake Shack’s signature menu, including favourites such as breakfast burgers, the famous ShackBurger, crinkle-cut fries, hot dogs, ShackMeister ale, and their indulgent milkshakes. This launch marks another milestone for Bullring & Grand Central, which has become a hotspot for international food, beverage, and leisure brands. Shake Shack joins an impressive line-up that includes Lane 7, Sandbox, Toca Social, Slim Chickens, Mrs Chew’s Chinese Kitchen, Mowgli, and Five Guys. An Expanding Dining Destination Katy Letch, Head of Leasing at Hammerson, expressed her excitement about the new addition: “Shake Shack is the latest international brand to make its debut at Bullring & Grand Central, further enhancing the diverse food and beverage options available. Combined with our existing line-up of top names in the hospitality sector and our extensive leisure offering, Bullring & Grand Central is firmly established as Birmingham’s premier destination for dining and socialising.” A Key Milestone for Shake Shack Colin O’Kane, Managing Director at Diverse Dining, the UK operator of Shake Shack, highlighted the significance of the Birmingham opening: “With locations across London and the South East, expanding the Shake Shack portfolio to new regions in the UK is a key part of our strategic growth plan. This debut Midlands site at Bullring & Grand Central is an important milestone. As the country’s second-largest city, Birmingham has been on our radar for some time, and Grand Central’s prime location above the bustling Birmingham New Street Station makes it the perfect choice for our regional expansion.” With its debut in Birmingham, Shake Shack continues its mission of bringing its unique dining experience to new audiences, further solidifying Bullring & Grand Central’s reputation as the go-to hub for culinary and leisure excellence. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Chuck E. Cheese, the beloved American family entertainment chain, is preparing to make its entrance into the UK market. Known for its combination of fun-filled entertainment and a family-focused food and beverage offering, the brand has already established over 550 locations worldwide. Now, it has set its sights on cities such as Glasgow, Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham, Milton Keynes, and Bristol. Capturing the UK Family Market With a vision to capitalise on the growing redemption game market in the UK, Chuck E. Cheese aims to bring its signature blend of arcade games, live entertainment, and dining to high-footfall locations. The target demographic? Families with children under 12 years old, ensuring vibrant, bustling venues that cater to young audiences. The operator has specified a catchment area requirement of over 25,000 under-12s within a 20-minute drive, ensuring their chosen locations are ideally situated to attract core visitors. The preferred sites include shopping centres, retail parks, and leisure parks, with ample parking facilities to accommodate family outings. Location and Space Requirements The ideal Chuck E. Cheese venue in the UK will span between 10,760 sq ft and 16,145 sq ft, with an eaves height of at least 13.1 feet. These dimensions are designed to house their signature features, such as: Strategic Guidance for UK Expansion Wright Property, a specialist in commercial real estate, has been appointed to oversee the UK expansion, providing expertise in identifying and securing suitable properties. The company will ensure that the chosen sites align with Chuck E. Cheese’s operational requirements while meeting the needs of local communities. Why Now? The UK’s increasing demand for family-friendly leisure and entertainment experiences has made it an attractive market for Chuck E. Cheese. With the redemption game sector growing and families seeking interactive, multi-faceted destinations, the timing is perfect for the brand to carve its niche. As Chuck E. Cheese prepares for its UK launch, the blend of gaming, dining, and entertainment promises to deliver a memorable experience for families across the country. The first openings will undoubtedly set the tone for a larger rollout, bringing an iconic American concept to British shores. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

ODEON Cinemas is driving a bold expansion across the UK, delivering cutting-edge venues in Peterborough, Bristol, and Scarborough. Each location embodies a blend of state-of-the-art technology, meticulous design, and eco-conscious construction, setting a new standard for modern entertainment spaces. Peterborough: A £60m Leisure Landmark November 2024 marked a milestone for ODEON with the opening of its first Cambridgeshire venue at Peterborough’s Queensgate. The state-of-the-art, eight-screen cinema, featuring IMAX technology and seating for 600 guests, has become the centrepiece of Queensgate’s £60 million leisure extension. Designed with both functionality and style in mind, the 27,500 sq ft venue features interiors crafted with high-grade materials for durability and aesthetic appeal. From ergonomic, premium seating to advanced acoustics, every detail enhances the cinematic experience. The cinema’s eco-conscious design integrates energy-efficient lighting and digital signage, ensuring it’s as sustainable as it is stylish. Invesco Real Estate, the driving force behind Queensgate’s transformation, highlights its impact on the local area. Ed Ginn, Director of Investment Management, said:“ODEON is a fantastic addition, driving our vision of a dynamic leisure hub that supports and strengthens the wider retail offer.” Complementing Queensgate’s retail mix, which includes Primark and Frasers, the new cinema has transformed the centre into a bustling, day-to-night destination. Bristol: A Flagship for Entertainment at Cabot Circus ODEON’s forthcoming venue at Bristol’s Cabot Circus underscores its vision of urban regeneration. Scheduled to open in 2025, the cinema will combine sleek, modern interiors with world-class projection and sound technologies. Purpose-built with advanced fit-outs, including acoustically engineered walls and sustainable materials, the Bristol venue reflects ODEON’s dedication to environmental stewardship and high-quality construction. The cinema is set to become a key draw at Cabot Circus, joining a roster of new leisure and retail brands revitalising the area. Toby Tait, Director of Asset Management at Hammerson, noted:“This new partnership with ODEON brings the latest technology and experience into a completely renewed cinema venue, enhancing both day and night experiences in the heart of Bristol.” Scarborough: A Luxe Comeback to the Coast ODEON’s return to Scarborough, anchoring the transformation of the Brunswick Centre, brings a premium experience to a town that has been without a major cinema since the 1980s. The Luxe venue will feature luxurious seating, immersive screens, and premium finishes, all crafted to provide a world-class entertainment experience. Mark Jackson of Scarborough Group International commented:“Bringing ODEON back to Scarborough after more than three decades is a key milestone… Once complete, the transformed Brunswick Centre will be a catalyst for the further economic regeneration of the town centre.” Innovative Design and Build Quality Across all its new UK ventures, ODEON’s commitment to superior design and construction is clear. The venues feature: Building More Than Cinemas ODEON’s expansion isn’t just about entertainment—it’s about creating architectural landmarks that anchor leisure-driven transformations in urban and regional areas. Each venue is a testament to the company’s ability to seamlessly integrate innovation, design, and community impact, solidifying its position as the leader in the UK cinema industry. ODEON’s latest cinemas embody a revival in entertainment and place-making, proving that the silver screen can shine brighter when supported by world-class design and build quality. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Wendy’s South West expansion is underway as franchisee Khidmat Limited appoints Savills to spearhead site selection in the region. This marks a significant step for the American fast-food giant as it strengthens its UK presence. Savills is focusing on prime locations in Bath, Exeter, and Plymouth, chosen for their bustling footfall driven by tourists, students, and vibrant local economies. High-traffic sites under consideration include drive-through units, shopping centres, and retail parks, with a preferred size of approximately 2,500 sq ft. Khidmat Limited is the fifth UK franchisee to join Wendy’s ambitious growth journey, which aims to establish 400 restaurants across the country. A Global Icon with Local AmbitionsWendy’s, headquartered in Dublin, Ohio, has been a global fast-food powerhouse since its founding in 1969. Known for its signature made-to-order square hamburgers, the chain operates over 7,200 restaurants worldwide, with 1,200 outside the United States. The UK has become a key focus for the brand, evidenced by its recent opening at the Academy Business Park in Kirkby, Liverpool, marking its first standalone location in the area. Strategic Growth in the South WestJessica Hill, Surveyor in Restaurants and Leisure at Savills, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership:“Wendy’s has experienced phenomenal global growth in recent years, making substantial investments in local resources to strengthen its foothold for its ambitious expansion plans. We are delighted to be working with Khidmat in the South West to help bolster Wendy’s pipeline of new openings and reach its long-term target of 400 restaurants in the UK.” With this collaboration, Wendy’s expansion strategy gains further momentum, bringing its beloved menu and dining experience to new audiences across the South West. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Famous fried chicken chain Popeyes is making its debut in a Scottish shopping centre, with a new restaurant set to open at Glasgow’s Braehead Shopping Centre. This marks an exciting milestone as the American brand continues its rapid expansion across the UK. A New Dining Experience for Braehead Visitors The Braehead location will accommodate up to 74 diners and serve Popeyes’ signature dishes, including its iconic chicken sandwiches, crispy wings, tenders, and the southern classic, biscuits with gravy. Known for its Louisiana-inspired flavours, Popeyes is expected to attract both dedicated fans and curious newcomers. Part of a Growing UK Presence This will be Popeyes’ 65th restaurant in the UK and the fourth to open in Scotland, reflecting the brand’s ambitious expansion strategy. The addition further underscores Braehead Shopping Centre’s commitment to enhancing its dining options and appealing to a broader customer base, including younger visitors. A Boost for Braehead’s Offerings Rob Jewell, Managing Director at Pradera Lateral, the scheme’s asset manager, commented:“We continually seek to offer customers the best dining and retail experiences, and Popeyes’ unique range will undoubtedly be a popular addition to our already extensive offering. With Braehead being the first Scottish shopping centre to house this iconic brand, it will provide visitors with an opportunity to try a new and highly anticipated eatery, ultimately enhancing their overall experience at the centre.” A Recipe for Success The arrival of Popeyes at Braehead Shopping Centre adds a fresh, vibrant option to its dining portfolio, promising to draw more visitors while contributing to the centre’s reputation as a leading retail and leisure destination. Whether it’s a quick bite or a sit-down meal, Popeyes is poised to bring the bold flavours of the Deep South to Scottish shoppers. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Hospitality group Loungers has unveiled its fourth Brightside roadside restaurant, this time at the bustling Ram Jam services in Rutland. Located on the busy route between Peterborough and Grantham, the new eatery is part of a purpose-built retail hub featuring four units, a petrol station, and a bakery. A New Era for Roadside Dining Brightside, launched by Loungers to “reinvigorate roadside dining in the UK,” continues its mission to transform the dining experience for travellers. Following its debut last year with three restaurants in Exeter, Honiton (Devon), and Saltash (Cornwall), Brightside is now bringing its unique twist on roadside dining to the heart of the East Midlands. Charlie Jones, Operations Manager at Brightside, shared his enthusiasm:“We are delighted that our Brightside experience, and our unique reinterpretation of roadside dining, is now available for those heading north. Ram Jam Services is an incredibly popular stop for motorists, so this is a fantastic opportunity to offer something fresh and exciting.” Perfect for Travellers and Locals Alike The new restaurant benefits from its proximity to Rutland Water, a major regional attraction drawing nearly two million visitors annually. Brightside Ram Jam is perfectly positioned to serve both travellers passing through and local residents seeking a welcoming dining spot. “As well as catering to travellers, we are an excellent choice for those who live nearby. We’re looking forward to meeting lots of locals too,” Jones added. Loungers’ Expansion Continues In addition to Brightside, Loungers operates the popular Lounges and Cosy Club brands. The group has been thriving, with its chair recently noting that property availability for new ventures has “never been better.” Loungers has capitalised on this favourable climate, achieving a record year of openings in 2023. A Fresh Stop Along the Way With its latest opening, Brightside is well on its way to redefining roadside dining in the UK, offering travellers and locals a fresh and inviting alternative. Whether you’re passing through or nearby, Brightside Ram Jam promises a dining experience worth stopping for. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Leading bowling and competitive socialising operator Lane7 has announced ambitious plans to roll out 10 new venues over the next two years, adding a massive 180,000 sq ft to its portfolio by the end of 2025. The expansion builds on a successful 2024, during which Lane7 completed 120,000 sq ft of transactions and opened eight new sites across the UK and Europe. Among its recent milestones, the group launched its first European venue in Potsdamer Platz, Berlin, in October and is gearing up to debut two locations in Dublin—at Dundrum and Chatham Street—in January 2025. New Horizons for Lane7 As Lane7 accelerates its growth, it has signed three new sites and has a further six venues currently in legal negotiations. The UK expansion will include two new locations in Newcastle, where the operator first launched in 2013, as well as additional sites under its family-friendly sister brands, Gutterball and LevelX. Lane7’s concept has redefined traditional bowling by blending it with alternative gaming experiences such as retro arcade games, tech-enabled activities, karaoke, beer pong, darts, and mini golf, all underpinned by a strong hospitality focus. The group often collaborates with local food and beverage partners, adding a unique flavour to its venues. Driving Footfall and Town Centre Vitality Founder Tim Wilks emphasised the crucial role leisure plays in revitalising town centres and mixed-use developments: “Leisure energises town centres, and competitive socialising is a particularly powerful footfall driver. It complements existing F&B brands and offers diverse activities that appeal to a wide audience, creating memorable experiences with or without alcohol.” Lane7’s success at St James’ Quarter in Edinburgh exemplifies its impact. Since opening in 2021, the venue has drawn an impressive 400,000 visitors in its first full year, accounting for 2% of the entire scheme’s footfall. With 85% of guests pre-booking, the operator demonstrates its ability to drive traffic and add vibrancy to urban destinations. Bowling into the Future As Lane7 pushes forward with its plans, its innovative mix of leisure activities, community partnerships, and hospitality excellence continues to make it a standout player in the competitive socialising market. By creating exciting spaces that engage diverse audiences, Lane7 is set to leave a lasting impression on the UK and European leisure scene. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

RED Construction Group, the specialist main contractor, is delivering preconstruction and construction management services on Manhattan Loft Corporation’s multi-million pound refurbishment of St Pancras Renaissance Hotel, within the eponymous international train station. RED Construction Group’s London team is currently working on the multi-phased project, having recently completed the second phase of works comprising the refurbishment of the guestrooms and corridors on the ground and 1st floors within the Barlow House wing. The originally prefabricated bathrooms have been reconstructed with new 5-star hotel fixtures, fittings, and finishes.  Now, RED Construction Group is delivering a full refurbishment of the initial historic suite prototype room within the original “Chambers Building” of the hotel. This is being undertaken using traditional materials and has been designed to pay homage to the heritage of the Grade I Listed hotel. The RED Construction team has carried out the works with the 5-star hotel fully operational throughout, and given its location in one of the busiest areas of the capital, the refurbishment commands the London division’s vast experience in logistics problem-solving. St Pancras Renaissance Hotel joins RED Construction Group’s extensive portfolio of hospitality projects, including Lore Group’s independent concept, One Hundred Shoreditch, the Ruby Lucy London Hotel in South Bank, and The Other House flexible-stay hotel in South Kensington. Mark Iori, Managing Director at RED Construction London, commented: “Located amongst one of the country’s most iconic and busy destinations, St Pancras Renaissance Hotel is the latest project to call upon RED Construction Group’s skill and experience in hospitality redevelopment. It is a pleasure to work with the project team for Manhattan Loft Corporation, and we look forward to realising the client’s vision for this British landmark hotel.” Mark Simmonds, Manhattan Loft Corporation, added: “We are enhancing the rooms with a modern, exciting and unique design that secures the reputation of the hotel amongst London’s most respected and exciting five-star hotels. We are committed to preserving this historically significant building and maintaining high standards of luxury and quality. This all requires a passionate and dedicated project team, from interior designers and gold-leaf specialists to knowledgeable and agile construction partners. With their extensive experience in luxury hotel restoration in the capital, RED Construction London are the ideal team for this project.” The news follows RED Construction Group’s appointment to deliver Tellon Capital’s £200m GDV Westminster office redevelopment, 40 Broadway. Spanning more than 130,000 sq ft GIA, works on the landmark scheme will be carried out by RED Construction’s London team, creating a high-quality, wellbeing-led office building situated within the Broadway and Christchurch Gardens Conservation Area. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals