The Blob Shop has promised to reveal its “new look” from September 12
The Blob Shop in Liverpool city centre
One of Liverpool’s most recognisable pubs has closed its doors to customers as it undergoes a long-awaited renovation. The Blob Shop on Great Charlotte Street, in the shadow of the looming Radio City Tower, has announced a temporary shutdown, promising to reveal a “new look” later this month.
A statement posted to the pub’s website read: “We will be temporarily closed from 2nd September, but can’t wait to show you our new look from 12th September.” The grand reopening promises to be just in time for the venue’s weekly Saturday Night Karaoke on September 13.
One of Liverpool’s most well-known pubs, The Blob Shop also holds the honour of having the most unique name. Its unusual moniker might confuse anyone unfamiliar with the retro “Hot Blob”, an alcoholic drink made from Aussie Whites, sugar, lemon and hot water – similar to a Hot Toddy.
Last year the pub celebrated the return of Yates’s Original Australian Wine, the all-important ingredient for a Hot Blob, after the original supplier was sold and the product discontinued.
The 17.5% drop had been a popular choice in Merseyside pubs for generations before it was quietly discounted. The ECHO discovered that Artisanal Spirits from Halewood, who bought the Aussie Whites brand from Yates’ for £1m in 2003, had not been producing the drink for several years.
Drag Queen DJ Dixi Tucker, with regulars at the Blob Shop(Image: Liverpool Echo)
Stockpiled Aussie Whites continued to be sold in pubs, but as supplies ran low, the Blob Shop was left unable to serve its signature drink.
Thankfully, in January last year, wholesaler Parfetts announced it would be stepping in to make Aussie Whites and distribute it to bars and off-licences in the city. The Blob Shop punters celebrated its return at an Aussie Whites relaunch party with Drag Queen DJ Dixi Tucker, karaoke, Australian themed cocktails and costumes, and a barrel of Aussie Whites behind the bar.
General manager Michelle Lawless said at the time: “I’ve been a part of the Blob Shop team for almost three decades and Aussie Whites has always been a huge part of our offering and a favourite amongst our locals.
“Listening to our community has always been important to us and we are absolutely thrilled to have Aussie Whites back in stock and look forward to welcoming our favourite familiar faces and new customers alike to our launch party. Everyone is welcome.”
The Blob Shop continues to enjoy a reputation as a true Scouse pub, welcoming customers at all opening hours. On the Liverpool Pubs Facebook page, where residents are invited to share memories of their locals, Joan Davenport said: “Love it in The Blob Shop. Lovely bar staff, cheap and cheerful.”
Mark Jones said: “What ever you say about the place, one thing is guaranteed, the ale is always spot on, no watered down stuff in there, it has to be… Liverpool answer to the Winchester Club.”
Alan Bygate said: “No trip to Liverpool is complete without a few pints in The Blob.”