The bar brand, which was set up in 1985 and is now owned by Stonegate Group, has evolved dramatically since its debut and currently has 77 locations across the UK.
The brand was set up by entrepreneur Hugh Corbett with the first site opening in Islington, North London in 1985.
His new approach was ground-breaking for the time bringing a change from the traditional pubs to a more youthful, modern, and female-friendly design.
The brand gained popularity by offering a contemporary, welcoming space for both men and women.
Over the years, Slug & Lettuce has had a range of owners from Grosvenor Inns, to SFI to Laurel Pub Company, Bay Restaurant Group and Town and City Pub Company, before being purchased by Stonegate Group and it has continued to evolve and reinvent itself along the way.
Investment
Stonegate has invested more than £5m in the last 18 months in transforming key sites including Slug & Lettuce Deansgate, Birmingham Brindley Place, Solihull, Albert Square, County Hall, Glasgow, Hanover Street, York Riverside and Oxford Circus.
There was a recent six-figure investment in Slug & Lettuce’s new Glasgow location at the former Missoula site back in October 2024, as well as York Riverside in March.
Stonegate revealed there are further six-figure investments planned for sites like Slug & Lettuce Lincoln and Newcastle Central.
Slug & Lettuce has introduced some new features in recent years including Flamingo Bingo and Beauty Vending Machines in select locations, with some in partnership with celebrity makeup artist Armand Beasley.
As part of the 40th birthday celebrations, there will a range of activities to celebrate at Slug & Lettuce from limited-edition cocktails to themed nostalgic 90s vs 00s brunches as well as a birthday truck tour across the UK.
Evolution in high street staple
Stonegate said it is committed to continuous investment in the brand.
Stonegate Group CEO David McDowall said: “Slug & Lettuce has evolved into a true staple of the British high street, beloved by generations of guests.
“From its humble beginnings in 1985 to its continued reinvention today, S&L has worked hard to continue offering modern, vibrant spaces for guests to come together and enjoy great food, drinks, and experiences.
“As we celebrate 40 years of success, we’re more committed than ever to Slug’s development.”
He added: “At Stonegate, our mission is simple: bringing people together through our passion for great pubs, bars, and venues.
“Slug & Lettuce will continue to be a place where people come together to create lasting memories, and we look forward to building on its legacy in the years to come.”
