Expressions of interest for forming and entering into a Joint Venture to deliver a profitable Café and Catering Operation within the Town Hall

The renovation of Lowestoft Town Hall is due for completion early 2027 and will generate a really exciting opportunity for an innovative industry professional to provide catering within the building by means of a daily opening café / coffee shop and provision of catering via an event space which will include Weddings / Private Parties and Corporate Functions on an ad hoc basis. This newly renovated building is expected to make a significant impact upon the economic regeneration of the area and will also be the new home for The Registrar's Office and Lowestoft Town Council with an anticipated first year public footfall of circa 100,000.

Specification - Initial Expressions of Interest should contain the following information and be submitted on no more than 4 sides of A4:

a : Summary of existing business interests or experience.

b : Evidence of delivering similar catering contracts with references from recent clients and or case studies demonstrating service quality and reliability.

c: Evidence of commitment to provide quality exciting and innovative menu options with a commitment to showcasing local ingredients where possible.

d : Ideas on how the Town Hall offer could be differentiated from the offer already. available on the High Street allowing the business to thrive alongside those already in situ.

If invited to submit a formal application following expression of interest further, more detailed, information will be required in respect of the above as well as additional information which will include but not be limited to:

1 : A documented Health and Safety Policy plus current Food Hygiene rating from the Food Standards Agency.

2: Risk Assessments for food preparation, storage and service.

3: Evidence of a general commitment to sustainable practices e.g. in relation to reduction of food waste.

4: Ability to demonstrate financial stability and financial controls when operating a business.

5: Evidence of ability to recruit and train qualified chefs and catering staff.

3. Period A contract commencing no earlier than December 2026 with Joint Venture terms tbc.

Notes

Within your documentation, please provide a copy of your company insurance policy.

Expressions of interest will be assessed in terms of business experience and stability, a commitment to quality provision of food and service, the ability to be flexible as the business grows and the ability to work in partnership with the Town Hall for the benefit of its visitors creating a first class truly memorable experience.

It is prohibited for prospective contractors/ business partners to contact Lowestoft Town Councillors or staff to encourage or support their interest outside of the prescribed process outlined below.