Inception Group set for major hospitality venture with OakNorth

This year, Inception Group embarks on its biggest expansion yet, doubling the size of its Around The World in 80 Days-inspired Mr Fogg’s Collection, by opening three more bars.

Mr Fogg’s House of Botanicals will open in Fitzrovia this June, followed by Mrs Fogg’s, inspired by Aouda, the intrepid explorer, Phileas Fogg’s wife, in Jules Verne’s classic adventure novel.

Opening in Broadgate Circle in September, Mrs Fogg’s will be their first foray into the city. The Mr Fogg’s Collection trio will finally be completed by Mr Fogg’s Society of Exploration opening just off the Strand in October.

OakNorth has provided Inception Group with growth capital to initially fund the rollout of the three new sites across London this year.

Deepesh Thakrar, senior debt finance director at OakNorth, said: “The London bar and restaurant scene is one of the most competitive in the world - there are numerous chains and while these can work very well, a lot of people prefer sites that feel more like hidden gems or speakeasies.

“Charlie and Duncan’s approach - developing venues that have a unique look and feel, as well as individual concepts - has proven to be extremely successful and we look forward to working with them in the future.”

Inception Group was founded in 2009 by Charlie Gilkes and Duncan Stirling when they were 24 and 27-years-old.

The group operates 10 of London’s most conceptual and popular venues.

Restaurant Property, a specialist in the property market for the hospitality industry, secured the Fitzrovia site on Newman Street for Mr Fogg’s House of Botanicals.

Senior surveyor for restaurant property, Guy Marks, added: “I am a big fan of Inception Group’s quirky, original bars, restaurants and clubs and I realised straight away that the former Dickie Fitz site would be a perfect fit for the group.

“It was off-market when we approached Charlie and Duncan with the details and I am delighted that we have been able to help them acquire the site.”

Mrs Fogg’s will be situated in Broadgate. Joint owners, British Land and GIC are investing £1.5bn into the area, aiming to deliver 4.9 million sq ft of new and redefined workplaces, retail and restaurants, bringing people together to work, shop, drink and dine.

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