| Valuation method | Value, £ | Upside, % |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial intelligence (AI) | n/a | n/a |
| Intrinsic value (DCF) | n/a | |
| Graham-Dodd Method | 0.83 | -100 |
| Graham Formula | 2.74 | -99 |
Loungers plc is a leading UK-based operator of casual dining cafés, bars, and restaurants under its well-known Lounge and Cosy Club brands. Founded in 2002 and headquartered in Bristol, the company has grown to operate 168 sites across England and Wales as of April 2021, comprising 138 Lounges and 30 Cosy Club venues. Loungers plc caters to the consumer cyclical sector, specifically within the competitive UK restaurant industry, offering a unique blend of café culture and relaxed dining experiences. The company's business model focuses on creating neighborhood-friendly venues with a distinctive, eclectic design that appeals to a broad demographic. With a market capitalization of approximately £352 million, Loungers plc has established itself as a resilient player in the UK hospitality sector, navigating post-pandemic challenges while maintaining steady revenue growth. The company's expansion strategy emphasizes both organic growth and selective site acquisitions, positioning it as a key contender in the mid-market casual dining segment.
Loungers plc presents an interesting investment case within the UK casual dining sector, combining steady revenue growth (£353.5 million in latest reported figures) with a proven brand concept that has demonstrated resilience in challenging market conditions. The company's net income of £9.1 million and positive operating cash flow of £62.9 million suggest operational efficiency, though investors should note the relatively high beta of 1.57 indicating above-average market volatility. The absence of dividends may deter income-focused investors, while the significant debt position (£171 million) warrants monitoring, particularly in a rising interest rate environment. The company's expansion potential and strong brand recognition in its operating regions provide growth opportunities, but competition in the UK casual dining space remains intense, and consumer discretionary spending pressures could impact performance. The capital expenditure of £47.7 million reflects ongoing investment in growth, which could yield long-term benefits if executed effectively.
Loungers plc competes in the highly fragmented UK casual dining market with a differentiated positioning through its Lounge and Cosy Club concepts. The company's competitive advantage stems from its neighborhood-focused approach, eclectic venue designs, and all-day trading model that creates multiple revenue streams throughout the day. Unlike many competitors that focus on either cafés or restaurants, Loungers successfully blends these formats, offering flexibility that helps mitigate demand fluctuations. The company's smaller average site size compared to traditional restaurant chains allows for more efficient operations and better site selection flexibility. However, Loungers faces intense competition from both large chains and independent operators, with pricing pressure and rising costs being persistent challenges. The company's expansion is somewhat constrained by its current England and Wales focus, unlike some competitors with UK-wide or international presence. Its value proposition sits between premium coffee shops and full-service restaurants, carving out a distinctive niche but also facing competition from both segments. The operational cash flow generation capability suggests reasonable pricing power and cost management, though the debt levels indicate more leveraged growth compared to some peers.