Liverpool chef invests six figures in new champagne and wine bar

Liverpool restaurant The Art School has used a six-figure finance package to take on new staff and expand its food and drink offer.

The venue used HSBC funding to refurbish the basement bar of its existing building on Sugnall Street and create The Art School Cellars, a new champagne and wine bar.

The expansion, which could help the business increase turnover by 65% over the next 12 months, will lead to the creation of 11 new jobs.

Paul Askew, chef patron and founder of The Arts School, said: “HSBC’s support has been vital in enabling us to bring a fairly underused space back to life and we are delighted to open our new-look champagne and wine bar to customers in the coming days.

“What’s more, we are hoping that the expansion will support our ambition to be awarded the first Michelin Star in Liverpool.”

He added: “We look forward to serving the finest champagnes and wines, paired with charcuterie and cheese to both new and returning customers.”

HSBC’s area director for Liverpool and Cheshire, Barry Millar, commented: “HSBC is committed to supporting the growth of local businesses in Liverpool and beyond, and we are pleased to be backing The Art School through our dedicated lending fund, which this year totals £200m for Liverpool and Cheshire.

“This is an exciting stage in the business’ development as the team looks to enhance its current fine-dining offer to make it even more of a special occasion for customers.”

The Art School Cellars will open on September 21.

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