Breaking into the local nightlife to establish a new business is never easy, so our Best Newcomer Hospitality Business award is one that’s always hard-won and well deserved. VOX Karaoke Cocktail Bar is no exception, making an immediate impression in the 2025 Hospitality Awards with their combination of private-room karaoke, craft cocktails and Japanese-inspired hospitality service. Still in their first year, VOX offers a fresh experience in the Liverpool nightlife.

Designed to be both premium and inclusive, the venue features 19 bespoke rooms tailored for a variety of group sizes, and places a strong emphasis on guest experience. From service quality to space design, VOX has focused on building a setting where customers feel welcome and catered to, whether they’re celebrating or just dropping in for a drink.

We spoke with General Manager Hollie Bickley about VOX’s early success, the challenges of launching something new, and what this award means for the team.

In Conversation with Hollie Bickley

Please provide a brief overview of your business or what do you do within the company.

VOX Karaoke Cocktail Bar is a luxury private karaoke venue with 19 rooms decorated with bespoke furnishings available to guests of various group sizes. Our bar specialises in craft cocktails using unique ingredient combination to further elevate a classic drinking experience.

What would you attribute as the main reason for your success?

The main reason for our success at VOX is our consistent dedication on creating a unique, guest-focused experience that seamlessly blends private karaoke entertainment, exceptional service, and high-quality drinks. We’ve created a luxury space where people can enjoy the experience casually or as a celebration, and enjoy craft cocktails in a stylish ambience. Our commitment to guest satisfaction and a strong team culture have helped us stand out as a new, vibrant venue in Liverpool nightlife.

What has been the biggest challenge you have overcome?

One of the biggest challenges we faced was shifting the perception that this new, private luxury karaoke concept was only for exclusive or high-end clientele. To overcome this, we focused on creating an environment that is premium but remained welcoming and inclusive. We carefully balanced upscale design and top-quality service with flexible pricing, group packages, and promotional events that encouraged first-time visitors. Luxury is defined by the service we provide, not the price. We also used social media to showcase real customer experiences—laughing, singing, celebrating—to break down the barrier and show that VOX is still accessible karaoke, but elevated, so all our guests can enjoy a premium experience. This strategy helped us open the doors to a wider audience without compromising on the quality that defines our brand.

What do you think made you stand out as a winner in the awards? Tell us about the specific project or facet of your business you believe earned you this award win.

We believe VOX was awarded ‘Best Newcomer Business’ because we’ve brought something truly fresh and exciting to the hospitality scene. Since the inception of our concept, our mission has been to redefine karaoke nightlife by combining the luxury element with a vibrant cocktail craftsmanship—something that feels both exclusive and approachable. We’ve built a brand that prioritizes atmosphere, innovation, and above all, people—both our guests and our team. Our commitment to offer exceptional service and adapt quickly to guest feedback has allowed us to make a strong impact in a short time. This award reflects the passion, creativity, and hard work that went into turning VOX from a bold idea into a thriving destination.

What is the next big step for you?

The next big step for VOX Karaoke Cocktail Bar is expanding on the experience. We’re exploring opportunities of enhancing our current venue with innovative tech, exclusive promotions, elevating our guest experience through seasonal menus, and to continuously improve on the level of service we provide. Our goal is to solidify VOX as the go-to destination for premium yet accessible nightlife. We’re focused on scaling our brand while maintaining the luxury experience, guest-first culture that sets VOX apart.

Would you recommend Business Awards UK to other businesses? If so, why?

We would highly recommend Business Awards UK to other businesses because of it’s accessibility. It is free to enter for an award, giving the opportunity for small businesses to be recognised. You only pay a fee when you win an award, reducing risk. Upon winning an award, they offer publicity through social media and additional PR content that further boosts the recognition of your business.

Looking Ahead

With a clear sense of purpose and a growing reputation, VOX Karaoke Cocktail Bar is proving that there’s room for something new in a well-established sector. Their approach has resonated not because it reinvents hospitality, but because it refines it—putting comfort, service, and fun on equal footing.

As the team looks ahead to future improvements and potential growth, their challenge will be maintaining the high standards they’ve already set. But if the last eight months are anything to go by, VOX will continue to strike that balance and keep giving Liverpool something to sing about.