Squad and JW Lees were proud to pick up a DBA Design Effectiveness Award for Founder’s Hall on the 10th March 2026.

Duttons wine bar was transformed into a flagship venue for brewer JW Lees, and the central-Manchester site went from loss-making to profitable within one year.

Although Duttons was part of pub company JW Lees’ estate, it had a separate offering and by 2023 the wine bar had become commercially unsustainable. The decision was made to replace Duttons with a new concept and the result – Founder’s Hall – brings to life JW Lees’ brand in a new environment. The inspiration for Squad’s design solution came from continental beer halls. Through naming, layout, product visibility and atmospheric interiors, the venue showcases the brand and its beers, paying tribute to the brewery’s heritage and redefining JW Lees’ venues in a modern context.

Sales were 66% higher in the year following the venue’s relaunch in 2024, exceeding budget by 21%, and total profit was 70% above target. Founder’s Hall consistently enjoys guest reviews at +90% and over 50% of the venue’s beer sales are now JW Lees’ products.