Follow Leisure acquires Belfast café chain District
The acquisition will reportedly double Follow Leisure’s footprint in café locations across greater Belfast
Multi-venue hospitality operator, Follow Leisure, has revealed its acquisition of Belfast-based specialist coffee chain, District for an undisclosed figure.
District opened its first premises in 2016 on Ormeau Road, adding additional locations throughout South Belfast in Lisburn Road, Stranmillis Road and Saintfield Road.
In this acquisition by Follow Leisure, the coffee chain will continue to operate as a stand-alone brand within the Follow Leisure group, whose portfolio includes other cafes including Canteen, Output, Morning Martha. and the multi-venue restaurant brand, Slim’s Healthy Kitchen.
The acquisition will reportedly double Follow Leisure’s footprint in café locations across greater Belfast.
It is reported that 30 people are employed by the cafe chain, with the continuity of their employment being maintained, in spite of the group’s plans to close one underperforming location on Stranmillis Road when the lease expires later this year.
Gary McIldowney of Follow Leisure said: “The acquisition of the multi-venue operator, District, will complement our growth strategy and enhance our brand portfolio. Our plans are to immediately provide an increased and varied food offering with a strong focus on an all-day breakfast and brunch menu.
“District has demonstrated robust trading in recent months and had a quick rebound following the removal of the Covid-19 pandemic restrictions. We view District as having significant future potential in many high footfall locations.”
He added: “The brand matches perfectly with the ethos of our other café brands of great coffee, a stand-out food offering and service with a local community-based feel.We’re excited to welcome all District staff to the Follow Leisure group.”