The owners of the cafes Coco and Lola will take over the Fermain beach cafe and promise innovation and expansion.

A States Property Unit panel unanimously decided that Pearl Oyster Ltd was the preferred bidder, with new ideas for the government-owned premises at the bottom of Fermain Valley.

The States say the panel also comprised an independent property expert, from Watts and Co. who also carried out the marketing of the site earlier this year.

Pearl Oyster plans to create a new sun lounger area, extended opening times in the summer and the potential to host private events. Also on the menu is the ability to order food from the beach using an App.

A spokesperson for Pearl Oyster Ltd, which owns Coco and Lola, says Fermain is a picturesque location loved by islanders and visitors alike and represents an exciting opportunity:

"We are delighted our submission has been selected for the Fermain Kiosk and are looking forward to the opportunity of taking it on and bringing to the area a new offering that builds not only what we do at Coco and Lola, but also respects the beautiful setting of the kiosk and the bay."

The current tenant, Belmiro de Fritas, failed to renew his lease on the kiosk that has been in his hands for 21 years.

His efforts resulted in an accolade from The Guardian newspaper in 2007, voting it the second-best beach cafe in Europe.

READ: Guernsey beach cafe leaseholder wants to continue at Fermain

Mark Ogier, the director of estates at the States Property Unit, says while he is looking forward to seeing the new leaseholder’s plan come to fruition, he would also like to acknowledge the time and effort the incumbent tenant has put into the beach café.

"The result of the tender shows there is room for further development and growth to maximise this unique and sought-after location."

"The applicant is a well-established and successful operator, with an excellent reputation and significant following at their other outlets, and their plans for the Fermain Kiosk gave a clear vision for continued development, with the customer being the constant focus."