Awesome Franks toasts cocktail bar launch

A Newcastle independent hospitality business is raising the bar with the launch of an 80s-themed cocktail venue, supported by regional investment funding.

Jesmond-based Awesome Franks has expanded into a neighbouring retail unit, creating a new evening offering alongside its established gourmet sandwich café and delicatessen.

Founded by entrepreneur Alex Walker, the business opened in August 2025 in the former Richard Granger Wines building at West Jesmond Metro station.

Its growth follows a five-figure investment through NPIF II – NEL Smaller Loans, managed by NEL Fund Managers as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II).

Alex also secured a £25,000 loan through the British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme, delivered by Business Enterprise Fund North East.

The funding supported an extensive refurbishment of the original premises, including new electrical wiring and plumbing, transforming the building into a community-focused hospitality destination.

Alongside its food offering, Awesome Franks hosts art workshops and provides space for independent businesses, including florists and artisan food producers, to showcase their products.

Since securing investment, the business has more than tripled its workforce, growing from three employees to ten.

The new cocktail bar marks the next stage of expansion, with further plans to transform the building’s former Station Master’s Room into a grassroots music and events venue.

The proposed third space would host live performances, student nights, themed evenings and community activities.

Alex hopes the developments will establish Awesome Franks as a creative and social hub, supporting local businesses, artists and residents while strengthening Jesmond’s independent hospitality scene.

Alex said: “From day one, the vision was always much bigger than a café. 

“I wanted to create a destination that could evolve over time, bringing together great food, local businesses, creativity and community all under one roof.

“The SUL and NPIF II funding gave us the confidence and flexibility to bring that vision to life. 

“It allowed us to transform the building, grow the team and invest in the next stage of the business far sooner than would otherwise have been possible.

“Opening our new cocktail bar is another exciting milestone, and with our third space already in development, we’re looking forward to creating even more opportunities for people to come together and enjoy everything we have to offer.”

Susan Snowdon, investment executive at NEL Fund Managers, added: “Alex has created a business with a real sense of place, combining an excellent hospitality offering with a genuine commitment to supporting the local community and other independent businesses.

“It’s fantastic to see how much Awesome Franks has achieved since receiving funding. 

“The expansion demonstrates the positive impact that access to finance can have, helping ambitious businesses invest, create jobs and bring new opportunities to their local area.”

The £660 million NPIF II fund, operated by British Business Bank, provides loans from £25,000 to £2 million and equity investment up to £5 million to help small and medium-sized businesses.

Sarah Newbould, senior investment manager at British Business Bank, added: “It’s fantastic to see how businesses can benefit from multiple areas of funding from the British Business Bank, providing new spaces for local communities and creating regional opportunities. 

“By backing businesses like Awesome Franks through NPIF II, we’re helping to create new jobs and contributing to thriving high streets across the North East. 

“It’s fantastic to see the progress Alex has made in such a short space of time, and we look forward to following the next stage of the business’ journey.”

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