Bar Sport aims to open in ‘every major UK town and city’

Scott Murray, who opened the first Bar Sport in Cannock in 1998, plans to open more than eight franchised outlets by the end of this year with long-term plans to reach every major town and city in the UK.

At the opening of Bar Sport at Westfield Merry Hill last week, Murray said: “We all know that pubs and other venues are having a tough time. To be successful, you have to be offering the public more than just food and drink. The reaction to Bar Sport elsewhere shows that we have a winning formula, with large crowds turning out.”

The American style sports bars, which serve food and drink throughout the day, are kitted out with sports memorabilia and live sport is shown throughout the day and night on TV screens around the venue.

Planned sites​

A third site is planned for Ipswich this September with London, Glasgow and Exeter also earmarked for openings this year.

“These will be franchised outlets run by their owners and in tune with local taste. They will have been fully trained and supported by our Head Office staff,” said Murray.

“We are aiming ultimately to open a Bar Sport in every major town and city in the UK.We offer fun, sporting excitement and good food and drink in a safe family orientated environment. Each bar will have regular visits from sporting heroes such as football stars, boxing champions and many more.”

Bar Sport Merry Hill, operating within the Westfield shopping centre, is owned and run by former radio presenter and sports fan Harry Dass. The opening creates 30 jobs.