Drive-Thru Retail

About DB3

Founded in 1883, DB3 Group is an award-winning, dynamic practice consisting of DB3 Architecture & Design, DB3 Building Services Engineering, DB3 Net Zero and DB3 Professional Services.

DB3 Group has seven studios across the UK including in Leeds, London, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow, Cardiff and Aberystwyth, so we are never too far away from your project. Renowned for our quality design and technical delivery, we have long standing relationships with some of the biggest global brands across private and public market sectors.

From architectural vision to the completed build, we provide multi-disciplinary expertise aimed at meeting the diverse needs of our client base. We embrace the latest technology, including Building Information Modelling (BIM), to assist in our process and operations for design, visualisation, design team co-ordination and more.

We maintain a focus on not only delivering the project on time, with exceptional quality and within cost, but also in ensuring long term value is designed into facilities to ensure that they are easy and safe to operate, sustainable, minimise energy use and are cost effective to maintain.

Our dedicated team of experienced Architects, Project Managers, Building Services Engineers, Interior Designers and Surveyors provide a quality service regardless of project value, size or complexity, to deliver the best for our clients. Working collaboratively, we aspire to make this an enjoyable process and build relationships which result in us returning to work for the same clients on future projects.

SECTORS

ƒ Commercial

ƒ Conservation & Heritage

ƒ Education

ƒ Energy & Waste

ƒ Healthcare

ƒ Hospitality

ƒ Industrial & Manufacturing

ƒ Retail

ƒ Residential

ƒ Science & Labs

ƒ Sports & Leisure

EXPERTISE

ƒ Architecture

ƒ Passivhaus Design

ƒ Urban Design

ƒ Visualisation

ƒ Principal Designer

ƒ NEC Supervisor

ƒ Building Services Engineering

Driving Success

With a proven track record, we’ve collaborated extensively with franchisees representing a diverse array of brands across the UK, serving as their dedicated architects. Our expertise spans a broad spectrum of projects, including:

New Build Drive-Thrus: From conceptualisation to construction, we’ve been instrumental in the creation of innovative and efficient drive-thru facilities, tailored to meet the specific needs and branding requirements of our clients.

Fit-Outs: Our attention to detail ensures seamless integration of brand aesthetics and operational functionality within existing spaces, optimising the customer experience and operational flow of drive-thru outlets.

Quick Serve Restaurants (QSR): Specialising in the rapid-paced environment of quick-serve dining, we’ve played a pivotal role in the design and development of QSR establishments, enhancing operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Drive-to-Store Initiatives: Leveraging our architectural expertise, we’ve supported drive-tostore initiatives aimed at increasing foot traffic and revenue generation for our clients, through strategic design solutions and spatial planning.

Multi-Brand Collaborations: In addition to working with individual franchisees, we’ve successfully managed collaborative projects involving multiple brands, orchestrating cohesive design strategies that harmonise diverse brand identities within shared drive-thru environments.

GREENE KING

Drive-Thru Retail Park

Location: Lancashire

Expertise Area: Architecture

After a devastating fire at The Old Cobblers pub in Rawtenstall, it was determined that the structure was beyond salvage. With little of the original building left standing, Greene King made the decision to clear the site, paving the way for the development of new retail units.

To shape their vision for the site, Greene King engaged DB3 to conduct a feasibility study. The study outlined plans for three drive-thru retail units, setting the stage for potential redevelopment.

This initiative caught the interest of retail giant Soul Foods, who has now become a key

* Image may not reflect current design

stakeholder in the project. Currently, we are in the initial phases of site planning and development. The scheme will feature drive-thru outlets for Starbucks, Taco Bell and KFC, a configuration that promises diverse offerings for consumers.

In compliance with Biodiversity Net Gain legislation, we have advised the client on implementing measures to enhance biodiversity on the site while maintaining its functionality as a retail drive-thru. This strategy involves the strategic planting of 55 trees.

GREGGS

Drive-Thru

Location: Reading

Expertise Area: Architecture

We are involved in the redevelopment project of The George & Dragon in Reading in collaboration with Greene King. Recognising the current underperformance of the estate, the decision has been made to demolish the existing pub and replace it with drive-thru units.

Close collaboration with the client and relevant stakeholders has enabled us to thoroughly assess the feasibility of the site, addressing concerns such as increased traffic flow.

Following careful consideration, the site has been

chosen by Greggs for the establishment of a new drive-thru facility. Spanning 2,000 square feet, this development marks one of the first Greggs drivethrus in the UK.

We are actively engaged with the client in navigating challenges associated with EV charging legislation, working directly with Raw Charging, the EV provider. Plans include the installation of a substation to power up to 10 EV parking spaces, with the infrastructure designed to accommodate future expansions in response to demand.

GREENE KING

Framework Agreement

Location: UK-wide

Expertise Area: Architecture

As the leading pub retailer and brewer in the country, Greene King is expanding its reach beyond its 2,700 pubs, restaurants, and hotels across the UK. We’re collaborating closely with Greene King under a framework agreement to enhance some of their current locations by integrating drive-thru retail units. This strategic move aims to augment revenue streams and diversify Greene King’s portfolio through a buildto-rent model.

Given challenges with their previous architects, our team has played a crucial role in steering Greene King towards realising their vision. Each site presents unique considerations, ranging from revitalising derelict spaces to integrating new retail units alongside existing pubs. This approach not only bolsters footfall for the established pubs but also generates additional revenue through rental agreements.

Framework Agreement

Location: UK-wide

Expertise Area: Architecture

DB3 is working in partnership with Tim Hortons to support the roll-out of new drive-thru units across the UK, having delivered thirteen to date. The schemes vary from converting existing F&B units to constructing brand-new eateries at roadside facilities. Each design integrates Tim Hortons’ distinctive branding and operational standards to ensure a consistent experience across their diverse portfolio.

Tailored to sync with Tim Hortons’ mobile app for order-ahead operations, the drive-thru-model introduces user-friendly features such as a mobile

pickup shelf and designated parking spots for mobile orders.

A pivotal aspect of our collaboration involves thorough evaluation and optimisation of car parking layouts and vehicle routes within the scheme design. Additionally, we prioritise the integration of signage and external landscaping to elevate the overall customer journey.

This partnership harmonises with Tim Hortons’ ambitious vision of establishing a presence in every major town and city across the UK.

CENTRAL COOP

Car Park Redevelopment

Location: Norfolk

Expertise Area: Architecture

In line with their expansion strategy, we collaborated closely with Central Coop to rejuvenate their underutilised site in Cromer. Due to a decline in foot traffic at the store, fewer parking spaces were necessary. Through direct collaboration with Central Coop, we proposed splitting their car park into two sections: one for the existing store and the other for a potential retail unit. Consequently, the Coop’s parking

capacity was downsized from 179 spaces to 49.

Upon McDonald’s expressing interest in the available space, we worked closely with them to establish the necessary infrastructure according to their specifications. This involved constructing a dedicated drive-thru lane equipped with two customer order displays, an external play area, 61 car parking spaces as well as 122 bicycle spaces.

CENTRAL COOP

New Build Development

Location: Hertfordshire

Expertise Area: Architecture

As part of our longstanding partnership with Central Coop, we’ve been entrusted with spearheading the development of a new drivethru/drive-to-retail centre. Situated in Bishop Stortford, this joint venture between Central Coop and McDonalds aims to transform an underutilised greenfield site into a premier destination.

Currently in its early stages, we are guiding the client through the planning process. Our

comprehensive scope of work encompasses the creation of a Central Coop, Café, Community Centre, and McDonalds.

Given that each stakeholder has their unique vision, we’re diligently collaborating with each one to craft tailored feasibility studies. These studies will encapsulate the individual models and aspirations of all involved, ensuring the project aligns with their objectives.

GREAT OAK BUSINESS PARK Portsmouth Retail Park

Location: Hampshire

Expertise Area: Architecture

DB3 was entrusted to design a compact retail park on a previously utilised brownfield site in Portsmouth, Hampshire. Encompassing an area of approximately 1.41 hectares, the site benefits from excellent infrastructure connections.

The retail park comprises three distinct blocks, totalling 7,500m² of floorspace, housing a diverse array of amenities including retail outlets, restaurants featuring a drive-thru, educational facilities, a gym, and a veterinary surgery.

Complementary to these functions, provisions were made for an extensive car and cycle park, refuse storage facilities, and thoughtfully curated landscaping.

The primary objective driving the project was to establish a sustainable commercial hub that not only caters to the needs of the local population but also stimulates economic activity in the broader city.

Architecture and much more

As a multi-disciplinary consultancy, our expertise extends beyond architecture, meaning our clients can pick and choose key areas or combine a number of our service skill sets and project management skills when selecting our single point service offer. DB3 Group offers the following six individual business units.

DB3 Architecture & Design

Providing RIBA Chartered sustainable architecture, urban design and masterplanning, with supporting services including BIM, visualisation and interior design. DB3’s architectural team comprises 35+ architects, supported by a strong team of 50+ technologists and architectural assistants with the capacity to resource projects across all sectors.

DB3 Building Services Engineering

Offering CIBSE Chartered Mechanical and Electrical Engineering to all sectors. The team have particular experience in the leisure sector, having delivered numerous wet and dry leisure facilities across the UK. The team are CIBSE Low Carbon Energy Assessors and offer Thermal Modelling (DSM).

DB3 Net Zero

Drawing on the experience of our in-house mechanical & electrical engineers, architects, energy assessors, Passivhaus designers and sustainability experts. Our suite of Net Zero consultancy services is broken down into six categories which cover topics around whole life cycle. These categories include; Carbon, Efficiency, Passivhaus, Wellbeing, Performance & Compliance.

DB3 Professional Services

The team deliver building surveying, retail project management, principal designer, contract administration and NEC supervisor roles, across the UK. Working alongside DB3’s architectural and M&E teams, these roles can be incorporated into a multi-disciplinary offering or procured as an independent service.

Accreditations

AJ100 Company

RIBA Chartered Practice

Certified Passivhaus Designers

CIAT Registered Practice

CIBSE Directory of Practices & Firms

CIBSE Low Carbon Energy Assessors

ISO9001:2015 Quality Management System

ISO14001:2015 Environmental Management System

Altius Approved Elite Vendor

H&S SSIP Accredited, through Eurosafe and Alcumus

Constructionline Gold Member

Achilles RISQS Accredited

Cyber Essentials Plus

Awards

DB3 Group: Shortlisted - MMC Awards - Women in Modern Methods of Construction; Shortlisted - MMC Awards - Project of the Year - Education (Secondary & Higher); Winner - Build Architecture Awards - Best Sustainable Architecture & Design Firm 2023; Shortlisted - West Midlands Insider Awards 2023 ‘Architecture Practice of the Year’; Winner - Yorkshire Insider Awards 2023 ‘Architecture Practice of the Year’; WinnerCOBBA 2023 ‘Business Development Professional’; Shortlisted - UKREiiF Awards 2023 ‘Consultant of the Year’ & ‘People & Skills Torchbearer’; Shortlisted - COMBA 2023 ‘Architecture Practice & Business Development Professional’; ShortlistedGrafters Awards 2023 ‘Architecture Practice’; Winner – COMBA & COBBA 2022 ‘Architect of the Year’; 2021 Digital Enterprise Top 100; Winner – Insider Property Awards 2018 ‘Architectural Practice of the Year’ & ‘Design Excellence’; Shortlisted – BD Awards 2017 ‘Sports & Leisure Architect of the Year’; RICS Design Through Innovation Award 2017; Insider Property Industry Awards 2015 ‘Highly Commended Architectural Firm of the Year’

Helensburgh Waterfront Development: Highly Commended - Argyll & Bute Awards 2023 ‘Aesthetic Design’; Finalist - Planning Awards 2023 ‘Outstanding Contribution to Placemaking: Best Use of Arts, Culture or Sport’; Highly CommendedIStructE Awards 2022 ‘Leisure Project’

Llys Cadwyn Regeneration: Winner – Cardiff Property Awards 2021 and Ystadau Cymru 2021 Award for ‘Creating Economic Growth’; Highly Commended – British Construction Industry Awards 2021; CLAW Project of the Year Awards 2021

Adidas Oxford Street: Gold Winner – London Design Awards 2020

Leeds College of Music: Winner – RIBA Regional Award 2015 ‘Small Project Award’; Shortlisted –Insider Property Industry Awards Yorkshire 2018 ‘Regeneration Project of the Year’, Education Estates Awards 2018 ‘Refurbishment Project’, AJ Retrofit Awards 2018 ‘Further & Higher Education’; Constructing Excellence Yorkshire & Humber Awards 2018 ‘Building Project of the Year’

Chancery Lane Residential: Shortlisted –London Construction Awards 2018 ‘London Build Excellence’ & ‘Regeneration Project’

Airedale Air Conditioning: Winner – RICS 2017 Regional Award ‘Design through innovation’

Ysgol Craig Y Deryn School: RTPI Wales Planning Award 2014

Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre: Commended – SCALA Awards 2014 ‘Civic Building of the Year’

MOMA Machynlleth Tannery Gallery: CPRW Awards 2014 ‘Special Award’

Michael Woods Leisure Centre: Highly Commended – SCALA Awards 2014 ‘Civic Building of the Year’; Scottish Property Awards 2014 ‘Architectural Excellence’

Marks & Spencer, Liverpool: Highly Commended –CIAT Award 2010 ‘Technical Excellence’

PAN Emirates, Dubai: Shortlisted – Retail Interiors Awards 2010 ‘Best International Interior’

Threeways School, Bath: BCSE Awards 2009 ‘Inspiring Design for Special Schools’

ASDA Stores Supplier Awards: 2009 ‘Best Consultant’ & ‘Best EDLC (Every Day Low Cost) Initiative’

University of Huddersfield, Creative Art Building: Bronze Awards – RIBA White Rose Award 2009; Commendation – CIAT Award 2009; Shortlisted –RICS Pro Yorkshire Awards 2009

University of Huddersfield, Milton Centre: Winner – Insider Yorkshire Renaissance Awards 2006 ‘Best Restoration Project’

Aberdovey Yacht Club: Winner – Snowdonia

National Park Awards 1992 ‘Good Design in the Countryside Award’

St Giles Business Park for the DBRW: Winner –Prince of Wales Design Awards 1990 ‘Good Design Awards’

Llwydcoed Crematorium: Winner - RIBA Wales Architecture Awards 1971

Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS): 2017, 2011, 2010

Green Apple Awards: 2015, 2013, 2010, 2009, 2008

LABC Building Excellence Awards: 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008

LABC Design Excellence Awards: 2013, 2012, 2009, 2008, 2003, 2002

Leicestershire & Rutland Craftsmanship Awards: 2013, 2012, 2009, 2008, 2003, 2002