Blacks Business Brokers Completes Successful Sale Of Formby’s

Blacks Business Brokers is pleased to announce the successful sale of Formby’s, a well-established bar and grill located in the bustling and densely populated area of Hindley. Established in 2017, Formby’s quickly became a local favorite, known for its wide selection of cocktails, spirits, beers, and a diverse menu that caters to a variety of tastes. Over the years, the business has built a loyal customer base, earning outstanding reviews across Google, TripAdvisor, and Facebook, and benefiting from a high level of passing trade thanks to its prime main road location.

Formby’s presents a unique opportunity for an owner-operator to take the business to the next level. The decision to sell was driven by the current owner’s personal family commitments, rather than business performance, making this an excellent opportunity for a new owner to step into a thriving establishment with significant growth potential.

Located on a prominent main road in Hindley, Formby’s benefits from a densely populated residential area with numerous nearby amenities. The proximity to Hindley train station, Hindley Town Football Club, and Amberswood Local Nature Reserve adds to the appeal, providing a mix of local residents and visitors. Excellent road links via the A577, A58, and M61 ensure easy accessibility, while strong public transport connections make it convenient for staff and customers alike. Free parking is available directly outside the business, further enhancing convenience for visitors.

The premises of Formby’s are housed in a well-presented two-storey detached property, featuring large branding and signage that is visible from the busy main road. Inside, the ground floor offers a welcoming main bar area with seating for fifty guests on the right-hand side, alongside a large bar on the left. Facilities include ladies’ and gents’ toilets and access to the cellar, ensuring smooth operational flow. The first floor contains spacious living accommodation comprising three double bedrooms, a lounge, kitchen, dining room, and family bathroom, ideal for an owner seeking to live on-site.

Externally, the property offers a free car park accommodating up to twelve vehicles, a large covered decking area with tables and chairs, and a children’s play area, providing seating for up to 120 customers. There is also a separate owner’s garden to the rear and a large container housing George’s Bar and Grill, which operates as a kitchen for food, beverages, and takeaway services. This combination of indoor and outdoor space, along with versatile facilities, makes Formby’s particularly attractive for a new owner aiming to expand operations or enhance the customer experience.

From a financial perspective, Formby’s has maintained steady trading since opening. Accounts to 30 June 2024 show an annual turnover of £347,612 with a gross profit of £180,758, reflecting a solid and sustainable business model. The premises are available on a Full Repair and Insure (FRI) lease, a standard commercial lease type, with the current ten-year lease commencing in 2020 at a weekly cost of £831. The landlord has already indicated willingness to offer an extension to the lease, providing security for a new owner.

The business operates with a dedicated team, including seven part-time bar staff and three part-time grill staff, supporting the current owner who works full time. This established structure ensures continuity and smooth operations while allowing flexibility for a new owner to implement their vision. Full financial information and further details are available upon request, ensuring transparency and enabling informed decision-making.

Formby’s is well-equipped with quality fixtures and fittings, including tables, chairs, outdoor bar pumps, children’s play equipment, the outdoor container kitchen, main bar fittings, and televisions, providing all the necessary tools for efficient day-to-day operation. Operating hours are tailored to maximize trade, with openings from 16:00 to 23:00 on Mondays and Tuesdays, 14:00 to 00:00 Wednesday to Friday, 12:00 to 01:00 on Saturdays, and 12:00 to 23:00 on Sundays.

This business represents a remarkable opportunity for an owner-operator or team to capitalize on the solid foundations laid by the current owner. With a strong reputation, a loyal customer base, and abundant passing trade, Formby’s offers potential for expansion in food offerings, marketing, and events, as well as creative use of the outdoor spaces. A new owner with vision and energy could easily grow this already successful business, turning it into a standout destination in Hindley.

Joanne Booth, the sales negotiator at Blacks Business Brokers, commented on the sale: “Formby’s is a fantastic example of a thriving local business with immense potential. Our clients have built something truly special, and it was a pleasure to support them through the sale process. This business is ideally suited to an owner-operator who can bring their own energy and ideas to expand its success. We were able to find the right buyer thanks to our extensive network and tailored approach, demonstrating why using a professional broker like Blacks Business Brokers can make all the difference in achieving the best outcome.”

The sale of Formby’s underlines Blacks Business Brokers’ expertise in connecting buyers and sellers in the competitive hospitality sector. By providing expert advice, in-depth market knowledge, and a highly personalized service, Blacks Business Brokers ensures that businesses are positioned effectively for sale and that sellers achieve the best possible results. The company prides itself on its proven track record of successful sales across a range of sectors, particularly in bars, restaurants, and hospitality businesses.