Bar chain’s new Santo Lounge to create 20 jobs (From This is Hampshire)

Loungers to open Santo Lounge and create 20 jobs in Shirley

11:42am Thursday 28th July 2011 in Food News By Tara Russell, News Reporter

SOUTHAMPTON’S recession- hit employment market has been given a boost with new jobs created in the city.

Bristol-based bar chain Loungers, which owns Trago Lounge, in Portswood Road, has revealed that it will open a second outlet in the city. The food-led cafe bar will open its doors next month in Shirley Road, creating 20 jobs.

Known as Santo Lounge, it is the firm’s third operation to open this year and boasts an investment of £300,000.

The news will be a flicker of hope for the region’s unemployed, who have been affected by the economic downturn.

Jake Bishop, operations director for Loungers, said: “Shirley is a vibrant part of the city and we believe Santo Lounge will thrive here.

“We are looking to bring a strong team together to ensure our latest Lounge opening is a great success.

“We offer excellent pre-opening and on the job training, which includes expert guidance from one of Europe’s top baristas.”

Vacancies include a general manager, assistant manager, head chef, junior chefs and servers.

Santo Lounge will open its doors on August 4 and will open every day from 9am until 11pm (midnight Thursdays to Saturdays), with food served until 10pm.