The first Manchester Beer & Cider Festival was an unprecedented success with 25% more visitors attending than had been expected. Planning for MBCF 2015 is now well under-way and as well as planning for the increased numbers, we are looking to implement changes in a number of areas to improve the experience for you, our customers.
The provisional dates for the 2015 Festival are Wednesday 21st – Saturday 24th January. To reflect our second event, our new logo features a tandem inspired by Team GBs tandem riders who were prominent on the track during MBCF 2014.
The most significant change will be that we will take over the whole of the Velodrome. We will be adding at least three brand new bars (taking us to a total of at least nineteen bars). We are planning to have at least seven bars on the concourse level with two mixed cask ale bars, a second cider and perry bar and a number of brewery bars.
Bars on the concourse level will allow those with mobility difficulties step free access to a wide range of beers (around 40% of the total selection) and easy access to the toilets and plentiful seating in the stands overlooking the track. Access to the floor inside the track and the rest of the bars will be available via the in house lift and we are planning on introducing dedicated customer care volunteers to assist those with difficulties. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer toilet facilities on the floor inside the track.
Additional seating will be available on the floor in the centre of the track and we”ll also be hiring in a whole bunch of extra tables. Hot food will remain on the concourse level but cold snacks will be available inside the track. With bars on both levels, you can get a drink nearby wherever you choose to dine.
Overall we’re looking to have almost half as much beer again as we started with in 2014, so will be offering even more choice and with around 40% of it upstairs. Overall we expect to have at least 500 beers, ciders & perries available.
Opening times will be similar with only minor changes but changes in the foyer should reduce queues at peak times.
Once again, Team GB will be on the track training during many of our sessions (training timetable to be confirmed) with other local clubs and groups (maybe featuring future Olympians) at other times.
We are still a long way off yet with lots of planning to do but we’re determined to improve the festival in as many ways as possible.