Managed pub operator the Orchid Group has unveiled plans to open nearly 20 new outlets under its Contemporary Carvery brand.

The company has already opened 27 sites across the UK so far this year.

Orchid, which is backed by private equity house GI Partners, will open ten sites before Christmas and ten sites in the New Year.

These will sit alongside its Bar Room Bar, Oriental Restaurant Group and Jim Thompson’s brands.

Sharon Hammond, concept development manager for Orchid, said: “Clearly, our offer of quality, British produce, beautiful environment and friendly service has met with approval across our customer base.  Our challenge in 2008 is to progress the offer further and find new opportunities whilst continuing to delight our customers”.

Orchid is the fifth largest managed pub group in the UK having acquired 290 pubs, bars and restaurants from Punch Taverns for £571 million in June 2006 after snapping up the Noble House Leisure estate.

Orchid pub group invests in new payment technology to fuel growth >>

Punch Taverns sells 290 pubs to GI Partners for £571m >>

Noble House in sale talks >>

By Chris Walton

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