A café bar that opened in a former bank building in the heart of Warminster last year has continued to attract customers and establish itself as a community hub.
Malto Lounge, in Market Place, opened its doors in September after transforming the former Lloyds Bank premises into a café, bar and restaurant.
The venue, operated by hospitality group Loungers plc, has brought new life to the Grade II-listed building and created around 20 jobs for local people.
Assistant manager Josh said the business had enjoyed a strong start.
“We have been busy,” he said. “When we first opened it was very busy. Things have become a little quieter recently, mainly because of the good weather, as people tend to spend more time outdoors during the summer.”
As well as serving food and drinks throughout the day, the venue has been supporting local community causes through its LoungeAid fundraising initiative.
Josh said staff are currently aiming to raise £500 for the local MS Therapy Centre and hope to exceed that target through a programme of community events.
Malto Lounge offers breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner and drinks, alongside children’s, vegan and gluten-free menus.
The company says it aims to provide a welcoming environment for customers of all ages and has encouraged local groups and organisations to make use of the venue for meetings and community events.
John English, head of community at Loungers, said: “We’re passionate about integrating genuinely into the communities we serve and look forward to playing our part at the heart of Warminster’s food and drink scene.
“Anyone looking for a space to host events or groups should pop in. We’d love to hear from them and see what we can do to help.”
He said Malto Lounge will welcome locals looking for a space for regular catch ups, meetings and events - everything from business networking, book or knitting clubs to parent and baby meets and life drawing classes.
The building remains one of the most distinctive properties in Warminster town centre. Constructed in 1873, it features decorative architectural detailing and a prominent four-window frontage overlooking Market Place.
The transformation of the former Lloyds Bank branch was welcomed by many residents following the loss of the town’s last high street bank.
The closure left Warminster without a traditional high street bank branch, although Nationwide Building Society continues to operate from Market Place.
Since opening, Malto Lounge has become one of several Loungers venues across Wiltshire, joining sister sites in Trowbridge, Chippenham, Devizes and Melksham.
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