A tasty new venture
Last updated 11:40, Monday, 30 June 2008
A FATHER and son business team have launched the first venture in what they hope will become a catering empire.
Alan Knox, of Haltwhistle, and son Andrew, of Slaggyford, have opened a branch of O’Briens, the Irish sandwich chain, at the Gretna Gateway Outlet Village.
The pair intend to start another three cafés in southern Scotland and northern England in the next few years, as well as an events catering business.
Fifty-year-old Alan has given up a career in finance to go into business with Andrew, 23, a trained chef.
Alan said: “When I decided on a career change and going into business with my youngest son, it was always a food franchise that we wanted to go for, especially given Andrew’s talent.
“It was the O’Briens catering service that led us to the brand in the first place, as I had used the service in my previous role and knew the quality of the offer.
“Once this first business is established, we will look at other potential locations for our second café outlet.”
The pair will employ six full and part time staff.
Gretna Gateway Outlet Village general manager Peter Gardner said: “We are delighted that O’Briens is joining us, as it is another well-known name to add to our tenant line-up, which will strengthen our overall offer and appeal.
“Although many people will be familiar with O’Briens outlets elsewhere, it is now great to be able to introduce them to our local area, and we wish Alan and Andrew every success with this new venture.”
O’Briens operates more than 300 stores in countries across Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa and has just launched into Canada and China.
MLegg@cngroup.co.uk
