[Prepared on behalf of Alexander Love]

Proposal: Live Music Pilot

Artist: PJP Trio (video demo below)

First Gig Date: Friday, 16 May 2025

Location: Côte, St Albans

Set up by: 7pm

Performance Times: 730pm-815pm | 845pm-930pm

Equipment: Provided

Investment: £1000 + meal and soft drinks for band members

Payment schedule: 30% to secure the booking. 70% Balance May 9th, 2025

Overview

Live music has repeatedly proven to be a high-impact driver of footfall, customer retention, and brand uplift in the UK restaurant scene.

This proposal outlines a pilot event designed to explore the benefits of live music at your venue. It draws on proven strategies used by chains like PizzaExpress, The Blues Kitchen, and Albert’s Schloss, each of which has transformed some of their locations into music-led destinations.

What We Provide

• Curated, professional live music aligned with your venue’s style and clientele

• Full sound system and technical setup

• Coordination of all artist logistics and on-site management

• Collaborative marketing support and social media-ready assets

What You Provide

• Support for marketing distribution (social, email, in-store promotion)

• Designated performance space within the venue

• On-site liaison to assist with event flow and customer experience

Goals of the Pilot

• Create a compelling customer experience that adds value to your venue

• Drive increased footfall, spend, and social engagement

• Evaluate the potential for regular live music programming across additional locations

Success Metrics

• Increased Covers and Reservations

Target: 15–30% uplift vs. comparable Fridays.

• Higher Average Spend Per Guest

Live music often correlates with increased drink and dessert orders

• Social Media Activity

Track engagement, mentions, tags, and reach from the event

• Customer and Staff Feedback

Quick post-event survey or informal reporting to capture the vibe

• Return Booking Intent

Gauge guest interest in attending future live music nights

Path to Scale

If successful, this pilot can evolve into:

• A weekly or bi-weekly live music night at this venue

• A model that can be rolled out across additional locations

• The foundation for a music identity that supports your brand and your business goals

Inspiration: What’s Possible

Some of the UK’s most recognisable restaurant brands have made live music part of their identity. These venues have evolved into destinations by delivering consistent, curated musical experiences that attract loyal customers and elevate their brand.

PizzaExpress Jazz Club

Dedicated jazz venue in Soho, with weekly live music at select restaurants including Chelsea, Brighton, and Guildford. The brand is now deeply associated with high-quality live music, attracting customers specifically for the experience.

The Blues Kitchen

Live music every night across London and Manchester venues. Known for blues, soul and Americana, they draw in a loyal crowd and keep people returning for food, drinks and music.

Albert’s Schloss

Alpine food and drink combined with immersive music and cabaret. Locations in Manchester, Birmingham, and London. A go-to nightlife destination known for its energy, atmosphere, and long lines out the door.

Côte (Pilot)

This live music pilot is the first step toward creating a music-led identity that will:

• Boost footfall and extend customer dwell time

• Increase average spend per guest naturally

• Create standout moments guests remember and share

• Strengthen your brand with cultural credibility

• Test a scalable model with minimal risk

With a strong team, curated talent, and aligned strategy, this could develop into a regular Côte St Albans feature and a scalable model across your other locations.

Next Steps

• Confirm timing, stage, and marketing deadlines

• Finalise artist selection and tech

• Go live: Friday, 16 May

• Review pilot outcomes