POPULAR healthy eating restaurant chain Slim's Kitchen is to open a third restaurant in Magherafelt, creating 20 jobs.
Just over a year since Slim's closed six of its eight outlets after going into liquidation, it has been announced that a new branch will open in the spring.
Well-known hospitality duo Conor & Ryan McGlone have signed a franchise deal with Slim’s and will open a 70 seater restaurant in 2800 sq ft premises on Market Street, employing 20 full and part-time members of staff in front of house and chef positions. The McGlones are no strangers to the hospitality business having helped their family establish the hugely successful Secrets Nightclub in the town.
The brothers were employed in their family business in front of house roles in Dorman’s and Mary’s Bar, before training in finance and operations roles and will bring this knowledge on-board to their new business venture.
Conor McGlone said the new venture is a "perfect fit".
“We have been looking out for the right business opportunity for a while and we always eat at Slim’s when we are in Belfast, so it was a perfect fit to bring our favourite restaurant closer to home."
“We have the experience of running high footfall businesses, dealing with staff and suppliers and with the strength of Slim’s as the go-to brand synonymous with healthy eating we’re ready to get the kitchen open and start serving," Ryan added.
Slim’s Healthy Kitchen was founded in 2013 by Gary McIldowney and now operates from two locations on the Lisburn and Belmont Roads in Belfast.
Before entering liquidation in February 2017 the brand had eight outlets at Dundonald Omnipark, Victoria Square and within DW Fitness Clubs in Bangor, Newtownabbey, Boucher Road and Derry.
Speaking about the latest business relationship, Mr McIldowney added:
“Running a restaurant is a dream for many just like it was for me, it takes hard work, long hours, and a passion that can’t be bought but together with Ryan and Conor’s experience and the drive and commitment from my team we are confident of building a viable and profitable lasting relationship."
