XLR Manchester, on Wilmslow Road in Withington, is set to reopen its doors on Friday 19 September, relaunching as the UK’s first nightclub to be licensed under a bring-your-own-bottle (BYOB) model.
The 200-capacity site, known for showcasing up-and-coming house, electronic, bass and dance music artists, will still feature a traditional paid bar, but the focus will be on the BYOB model following the rebrand, according to reports.
Accessible and affordable
Entry will be charged at £10–£20 depending on the line-up, with customers able to bring their own drinks to consume on site under a ‘corkage fee’ licence, similar to those used in restaurants and cafés.
Lockers have been installed behind the bar for storage and staff will be responsible for pouring drinks and distributing cans. The first act to take to the stage under the new initiative will be Dubstate.
The venue aims to attract students and younger audiences seeking more affordable nights out amid the ongoing cost-of-living-crisis, which trade body the Night-Time Industries Association (NTIA) praised.
NTIA CEO Michael Kill told The Morning Advertiser (The MA): “We welcome the launch of XLR in Manchester as an exciting and innovative step for the city’s late-night economy and grassroots music community.
Next generation
“As the cost-of-living crisis continues to put pressure on young people and students, creating more affordable and inclusive spaces is vital to ensuring the next generation can still access and enjoy nightlife and live music.
“Initiatives like XLR not only support accessibility but also play a key role in driving footfall back into our city centres, strengthening local culture, and sustaining jobs across the sector.
“Manchester has a proud heritage of music and nightlife, and we are encouraged to see operators continuing to adapt and innovate to keep this spirit alive.”
