Brewery founder raises glass to new food venture

A microbrewery founder is launching a city food hall venture.

Dal Dhillon is set to open Elle’s in Coventry.

Described as a first for the West Midlands city, the 8000sq ft endeavour will include independent food and coffee vendors and a late-licence bar.

Planned to open in Two Friargate at the end of January, the venue is tipped to create around 40 jobs.

The venture – planned to be followed by openings in cities including Liverpool – has been supported by a £500,000 loan from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II, through fund manager Frontier Development Capital.

Dal, who founded Dhillon’s Brewery a decade ago, said: “Elle’s will be a space for everyone – families, commuters and visitors.

“It will be a showcase for independent food operators and demonstrate the potential of the city’s hospitality industry.”

Diane Watt, of Frontier Development Capital, added: “Dal is an impressive entrepreneur who is a keen supporter of Coventry and has played a key role in developing its tourist and hospitality industry.

“This latest venture will be his most high-profile to date, and we are pleased to support him.”

The £400 million Midlands Engine Investment Fund II provides equity investment up to £5 million and debt finance from £25,000 to £2 million to small and medium-sized businesses.

David Tindall, British Business Bank senior investment manager, added: “Dal has a proven track record of founding and growing successful ventures.

“The fund’s investment in Elle’s will support the opening of a new regional food hall, create new jobs and enable expansion into neighbouring cities.”

Parmy Singh, of Coventry City Council, provided fundraising advice to the company.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →