Tobacco Factory Raleigh Road, Southville Bristol BS3 1TF UK
Drink, eat, meet The Factory Cafe Bar opened in November 2001 and immediately proved the crying need for something different from the chain pubs and fast food joints in South Bristol. Its tough industrial style; music and lighting; no nonsense open kitchen, with its healthy Mediterranean food and its young friendly staff, creates a great welcoming atmosphere where nobody feels out of place. Having a strong dislike of the domination by 'multiples' George Ferguson decided to 'Strike a light for Independents' and do it his way. In Sarah Ford, his manager and co-licensee he found someone who shares his vision and has the experience and determination to make it work. 'Strike a light for Independents!' WHY? The Tobacco Factory was saved for a purpose that goes far beyond just saving the building. The vision was one of reviving the heart of the community with something very different to the industry that created it, with a rich mix of cultural activities, creative industries, learning and living. It is an experiment that seems to be working, and we need the continuing support of the local community to sustain the recovery that it has generated and to make sure that the healthy social and cultural mix of the area is maintained and reinforced. An important part of the vision is one of supporting independent businesses as opposed to the 'anywhere' chains and multiples that crop up all over Bristol and elsewhere. It is the independent locally managed businesses and shops that give the variety and character that makes a place special and ensures that much of the wealth is recycled. Every business in the Tobacco Factory, including the Cafe Bar and the nearby 'Bristol Beer Factory' is local and independent and it is hoped that North Street can also resist the excessive incursion of national outlets. 'Strike a light for Independents' is the Tobacco Factory's contribution to a growing campaign to give some planning and fiscal encouragement to independent businesses to resist the march of the multiples. When you have the choice, vote for the 'independents' by frequenting those truly local shops and businesses - they are part of this very special community. On our part we shall only let space to independent businesses and organisations and, where possible, give our custom to local contractors and suppliers. It makes us feel good - we hope it does you too!