We initially advised Bishopsgate Institute Board of Trustees (via the Asset Management Committee and Finance Committee) as to the future operating and management model for the Brushfield Café space to ensure that it would enable Bishopsgate Institute achieve their financial, audience development and in-house catering objectives for their venue hire and events clients.

Following this we undertook a market engagement exercise to ‘test’ the market and understand the level of interest in this opportunity. The proceeding café tender process resulted in Darlish, luxury gelato operator, being appointed as the Institute’s partner for this exciting space and venue. Darlish provide commercial resilience for Bishopsgate Institute while allowing flexibility for the Institute to use the space during other periods of the year. The feedback is that the offer is exceeding expectations and is even more popular than coffee!

This interesting project included

• Detailed Situation Analysis to determine historic and current position
• Management Options Appraisal to consider in-house, outsourced and hybrid options
• Detailed Financial Modelling to determine financial position for each management option
• Recommendations and presentation to Executive Team and Board Member Representatives
• Informal Market Engagement with sample operators to ascertain interest and terms
• Tender Support and Management including developing heads of terms and negotiation 

“Bishopsgate Institute wished to explore options and financial models to re-open its adjacent cafe space in order to generate income and increase footfall to the Institute. We commissioned Montfort Consultants in 2023 to undertake an options appraisal, and to test the proposition with real world potential operators. At every stage, Paul’s communication was clear and timely, included all the information we needed to make a decision without blinding us with science, and as a result of his work, we were able to select the best option for us, feeling fully informed of the advantages and potential challenges of our model. Once we reached contract stage, Paul’s help was invaluable ensuring we closed the deal with our red lines fully addressed. We highly recommend Paul to help venues work through their options, understand the market and what operators expect, and to ensure the final deal works for you”.

Francesca Canty, Chief Executive & Artistic Director at Bishopsgate Institute