The London-based Bavarian Beerhouse company is planning to offer its Oktoberfest concept to franchisees.

Since the foundation of Bavarian Beerhouse Ltd in 2004 by husband-and-wife team Rene and Sabine von Reth, both revenue and profit are reported to have risen continuously. Last year saw the creation of the Bavarian Beerhouse Franchise in a move designed to begin the rollout of the beer festival concept in other British and Irish cities. Sabine von Reth, marketing director, said: "The restaurant market in the UK is tough. Two years after the credit crunch a lot of restaurants and pubs are struggling or have gone bust. Chains which have been successful for many years are no longer making a profit. It's a different world, and new concepts are desperately needed."

She added: "Just selling beer and nibbles isn't enough anymore. Guests are willing to spend money, but they want something in return. Bavarian Beerhouse offers the unique Oktoberfest entertainment concept: food, drink and entertainment - an Oompah band, some yodelling, singing and dancing. Table service is provided by charming ladies in traditional Bavarian dresses, serving massive pork shanks, sausages and sauerkraut." The company, which currently operates the Bavarian Beerhouse Old Street and Bavarian Beerhouse Tower Hill, both in the City of London, is looking to expand the brand into cities such as Birmingham, Dublin, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Manchester.

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