Owners of one of the UK’s most renowned and largest Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicle Dealer groups have expanded their business interests with a move into the hospitality industry.
John Keogh and Rish Channa are owners of Rygor Group, which is the parent company of Rygor Commercials, an award-winning, multi-franchise commercial vehicle dealer group which offers robust B2B and B2C vehicle solution options. The commercial offering ranges from Mercedes-Benz Trucks and Vans to SAIC MAXUS vans and Higer Truck and Bus products. Keogh and Channa have now launched Rygor Leisure, with the opening of two Boom Battle Bar franchised sites in 2022.
The Group opened the Bars at prominent locations in Ealing and Chelmsford. Described as ‘competitive gaming bars’ the venues offer premium drinks and food, as well as an entertainment battleground, including Crazier Golf, Augmented Reality Darts, Axe Throwing and Shuffleboard to name just a few.
The Boom Battle Bar concept ticks many boxes in terms of emerging trends: interactivity, competitive socialising, not to mention Instagram-worthy cocktails. The concept and venues are also well positioned to take the charge on corporate functions and team building events, all factors which co-owner John Keogh explains were a key consideration when moving into the hospitality arena.
“The hospitality industry has seen some difficult times in the past few years, but we saw an opportunity to invest with a brand which is backed by an established company, Escape Hunt. It was clear they knew what they were doing and had a clear path to grow the brand. Post-Covid, people are looking to enjoy quality time together again, whether as groups of family, friends, or corporate events. The increased consumer demand, a high-growth brand and good financial incentives from the landlords meant we made the decision to become a franchisee with a nine-site development agreement. We wanted to offer people something more than dinner and a drink, but an interactive experience that all ages could enjoy. The Boom Battle Bars have brought something to Ealing and Chelmsford that the areas have never previously had. During the day, families are welcome, with some of the activities geared to all ages. Then, after 7pm, the venues are for the over 18 age-group only,” Keogh added.
Co-Owner, Rish Channa, said:
“From an initial look, it may seem that there is no link between commercial vehicles and gaming bars! However, we have worked for more than a decade in a retail and corporate environment where it is all about setting standards for customers and delivering the best service levels possible. So, from that point of view, hospitality felt like a natural fit for the expansion of our business, and it has been a resounding success to date. Considered and strategic diversification is essential for large, aspirational companies, and this is a really exciting time for Rygor Leisure as we continue to look at more opportunities for the company to grow. We’re looking forward to taking Rygor Leisure to the same level as our commercial vehicle business by investing further into the F&B space with other strategic brands which share the same values as us.”
Francesca
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