Leisure firm The Escapologist is expanding its escape room, bar and restaurant business into the North East and beyond after securing a funding package.
The Yorkshire based entertainment and hospitality company has secured a £65,000 financial package from HSBC UK, which will trigger a new opening in County Durham, along with sites in Selby, Leeds and High Wycombe.
The new funding allows the firm to grow by creating new escape rooms within new and existing bars, which include The Old Courthouse in Consett, County Durham.
The company has also been able to bring the production of its props and puzzles in-house, which it said will speed up the production process while also keeping down third party supplier costs.
Three new employees have been recruited to create the equipment needed for The Escapologist’s new rooms, and it will recruit more members of staff for further sites scheduled to open.
Oliver McClaren, chief operating officer of The Escapologist, said: “This is a really pivotal moment in our growth.
“We’re delighted to have HSBC UK’s support as we expand from a small business with two regional venues in Selby and Xscape Yorkshire and 20 employees, into a national franchise with a double-digit number of sites across the country.
“We’re excited to share our business concept with more people across Yorkshire and further afield. Combining escape room games with a food and drink offering is a unique idea proven to increase customer visits and promises a memorable experience.”
The Escapologist offers bar, restaurant and escape room experiences across the north for people of all ages and abilities. The venues combine Victorian fashions with a science fiction, steampunk theme.
Scott Johnston, relationship manager for Business Banking Direct at HSBC UK, said: “We’re delighted to support the growth of The Escapologist as the company continues to increase its presence not only in Yorkshire, but also the wider UK.
“The company has tapped into a rapidly growing market and identified growth opportunities by working in partnership with existing businesses to create a unique experience for customers.
“The new escape rooms are already proving hugely popular among friends and colleagues alike, ensuring existing businesses continue to thrive with their new experiential entertainment offering.”
