Oriental expands

Oriental Restaurants Group, the London-based operator of four Asian eateries, is in negotiations to add four more sites to its portfolio.

Following its successful listing on the London Stock Exchange in September, the group is forging ahead with its expansion.

"Since going public we have been inundated with proposals," said finance director Michael Paterson.

Already a conditional deal has been struck for a 3,300sq ft site in Bishopsgate Churchyard, London, for use as an Indian restaurant. The building adjoins Liverpool Street underground station and was formerly used as a Turkish baths.

Oriental will begin occupying the site in January and hopes to open the new restaurant by the spring. It is planned to make a special feature of the Grade II-listed interior and to incorporate two bars and more than 100 seats.

Announcements on more London sites are expected over the next few months. By 1998, the group plans to look at opening restaurants in cities outside the capital.

Last week, results for the six months to 30 September were reported showing pre-tax profits up 67% to £531,000. Sales were ahead by 74% to £3.3m.