Casual-dining chain La Tasca has become the latest firm to acquire a site from in-administration Paramount, buying Brasserie Gérard in Newbury, Berkshire.
La Tasca said the move was the first time the firm had hit the expansion trail in four years.
Simon Wilkinson, chief executive of La Tasca Restaurants, said: "On the back of very strong December trading, where all three of our brands - La Tasca Spanish Tapas Bar & Kitchen, La Tasca core estate and La Viña - achieved sales growth both in the UK and USA, we have taken the opportunity to begin our expansion programme ahead of schedule with the acquisition of the Brasserie Gérard in Newbury.
"We know the site well and plan to convert it into one of our trading concepts towards the end of February. La Tasca is currently 10 months into its life as an independent, stand-alone restaurant company and we are very pleased with the changes and progress made so far. The market is challenging but we are very excited about our plans for 2012."
La Tasca Restaurants said it would make more acquisitions throughout the year, while more of the current estate would be transformed to the new concept of La Tasca, Spanish Tapas Bar & Kitchen.
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By Neil Gerrard
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