Loungers, the Bristol‑born all‑day café‑bar operator, has opened its first international site, unveiling Southville in the Rüttenscheid district of Essen, Germany on Friday (9th October 2026).
The launch marks a landmark moment for the business as it takes a concept rooted in Bristol neighbourhood culture onto the global stage for the very first time.
Southville – named after the area of Bristol where the very first Lounge opened – builds on the principles that have shaped the Lounge brand’s rise across the UK – warm, unpretentious hospitality, great‑value food and drink, and an inclusive, all‑day environment. The new concept has been thoughtfully adapted for the German market following extensive research into local consumer behaviour, cultural nuances and the wider F&B landscape.
Alex Reilley, Chairman, Loungers, said: “Southville gives us the freedom to evolve the Lounge DNA in a new context. We’ve approached Germany with curiosity rather than assumption, and the response so far suggests there’s real appetite for what we do. It’s a proud moment for the business, but more importantly it opens up a new chapter of opportunity.”
The Essen site blends nostalgic comfort with a playful, neighbourhood‑focused feel, designed to resonate with the city’s diverse, community‑driven demographic. Its launch underscores Loungers’ confidence in the headroom for growth both domestically and internationally, with further overseas opportunities now being explored.
Nick Collins, CEO, Loungers, said: “Launching Southville in Essen is the result of a huge amount of groundwork from our team. We’ve spent the past year getting under the skin of the German market, understanding how our all‑day model can add something genuinely different and we’re excited to learn, adapt and build on this first step.”
Find out more about Loungers through their website.
Image credit: Stefanie Schmitt
