Preston’s rock ‘n’ roll cocktail bar Kuckoo is celebrating its tenth anniversary.
The Kuckoo brand has expanded since the Preston opening in 2010 with bars in Chester, Knutsford and Sheffield.
In a show of commitment to the city where it all started, the chain has now bought its Fox Street premises as well as the site next door.
Owner and founder of Kuckoo, Richard Powell says customer loyalty has helped the bar succeed.
He said: “Preston is where it all began – we are a local family and love being a part of the community. Of course, we’ve had our ups and downs, like any business. It can be tough, but we’ve always thrived off the loyalty of our customers who come back and enjoy what we offer.
“Now we own the building in Fox Street, we have big plans for the New Year. We want to invest more into the site, bringing it up-to-date and in line with the other bars in terms of interior styling. This is why we are looking to refurbish the exterior and interior bar in early 2020. We’re hoping the exterior renovation will be complete by March.”
Richard introduced a manager-less system to the Kuckoo concept from day one, which he believes is why the brand has gone from strength to strength.
“It means each team member is individual and equal. Bartending is their career, not just a weekend job, and they are salaried, which in turn, encourages a skilled and motivated workforce.
“Many of the bartenders we have today have been with us since we first began and have undergone professional training and continued development to ensure they are happy, having fun, and doing the best job they can – which they do.”
Kuckoo is open seven days a week from 5pm or 6pm, serving until 2am on Fridays and Saturdays. The bar also offers cocktail masterclasses.
For more information, visit the Kuckoo website or follow on Facebook.
Are you a fan of Kuckoo? Had any memorable nights in there over the past ten years? Let us know in the comments.