Japanese inspired restaurant chain wagamama today revealed it plans to open the doors on its Lincoln restaurant before Christmas – serving-up a boost of 30 new jobs.
And Lincoln-based commercial agent Banks Long & Co, which handled the letting of what will be wagamama’s eyecatching new contemporary premises on Brayford Wharf North, said the move represents an exciting £1 million bonus for the city’s economy.
wagamama, which is going into a fantastic new building which will replace the Old Harbourmaster’s Office on Brayford Wharf North, is poised to create an extra buzz in a part of Lincoln which is enjoying a phenomenal renaissance.
This area has already benefited from substantial food and leisure sector investment.
wagamama is headquartered in Britain, but has outlets worldwide, and it has clearly spotted that Lincoln is an up-and-coming destination.
wagamama Property Director Sharon Cawthorne said: “This has always been a destination that has attracted our company. It reflects our demographic target. We look forward to welcoming everyone who loves our food and company ethos.
“We will be creating a mix of 30 full and part-time jobs and are looking forward to making a start on site in July and to be trading by December.
“wagamama will seat more than 100 people and also offer a takeaway service.”
Planning permission for the restaurant, which will sit on the edge of Brayford Pool, was secured by Stem Architects who are based in the city’s Sparkhouse Studios, on behalf of Investors in Lincoln, which has been working in partnership with the Brayford Trust.
Banks Long & Co director James Butcher said: “wagamama has signed up to take a lease on this striking, two-storey building, which Lindum Construction will build opposite the Odeon Cinema.
“We are pleased to have attracted such a high-profile name to Lincoln and believe wagamama, with its great waterside location will not only be a winner with Lincoln diners, but also prove to be a magnet for people living outside of the city and tourists too.
“The fact that we have attracted another top quality national multiple to Lincoln is a great advertisement for the City and shows that despite the difficult market conditions Lincoln remains an attractive location to a wide range of national leisure operators and retailers,” added Mr Butcher.
Investors in Lincoln Chief Executive David Rossington said: “The decision by wagamama to open on the Brayford is a win-win all round.
“The restaurant will provide yet more choice for diners, in what is rapidly becoming a number one location in Lincoln, as well as over 30 new jobs.
“The additional income that will be received by the Brayford Trust, as part of the deal, will help to ensure the future of the Brayford, one of the many jewels in Lincoln’s crown. Investors in Lincoln is pleased and proud to have played a key role in developing the new restaurant and wishes wagamama every success.”
