Leisure brand Veeno has revealed plans to bring its Italian wine café concept to Cheshire.
The firm’s new venue in the heart of Chester will join a network of 10 other cafés operating across the North West, Midlands, South West and Scotland.
According to Veeno bosses, the acquisition of the site on Northgate Street forms part of a national growth strategy.
Co-founder Andrea Zecchino said: "We were fascinated by a fantastic location just next to the Cathedral and very prominent.
"The premises have been vacant for quite a long time after West Cornwall Pasty closed the doors and we really wanted to take over."
"It will be the perfect spot to promote our concept of the aperitivo and keep growing our brand."
The Veeno concept was born after the firm’s co-founders, Andrea Zecchino and Nino Caruso, met while playing a game of football in Manchester in 2013. Both found they missed Italy’s aperitivo culture and the ritual of drinking, nibbling and relaxing following a day’s work.
By the end of 2013, the duo had launched their first wine café.
Discussing the company’s growth, Nino said the Chester opening marks "a pivotal time” for the brand.
He continued: "Looking back three years ago I could never have imagined we would be where we are now!
"We regularly have customers travelling from Chester to our wine cafés in Manchester and Liverpool so I’m excited to be bringing the concept closer to them!"
The interiors design and fit-out project is being managed by The Master Key Group.
Architect Giada Schioppa, the director of the The Master Key Group, which is managing the interior design and fit-out of the new site, commented: "We have come a long way with Veeno, from supporting them â??at the early stage of the expansion to managing the full fit-out â??â??in â??the recently opened venues.
"Work is well under way in Chester and we can’t wait to showcase it at their opening event on February 16th!"
Veeno is located at 52 Northgate Street.
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