Cocktail chain Simmons enters administration
The London-based bar group announced it would cull four sites last week, but insisted the move was part of a restructuring process, with expansion plans in the works.
Popular cocktail chain, Simmons, has called in administrators after recording a loss of almost £750,000 last year.
The bar group has appointed advisory firm Kroll to oversee the administration, according to company filings.
In its latest audited accounts, the business saw a loss of £749,000 for the year to end March 2024.
The London cocktail chain has been sold to its founder-director and private equity backer for £6.05m in a pre-pack administration deal, The Morning Advertiser reported.
Site closures
Last week, the operator announced it had made the “tough decision” to shut four sites as the business undergoes restructuring.
However, Simmons claimed the move was part of a strategic restructuring process geared towards streamlining its portfolio, strengthening its financial position and laying the groundwork for continued growth.
Th company insisted it had secured investment to support future expansion and operational improvements across the estate.
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A spokesperson said: “As always, we remain committed to delivering the unique, value-driven, high-energy customer experience we’re known for and look forward to a positive end to 2025.
“We plan to continue exploring opportunities for expansion in the market, including potential sites in key UK cities outside of London.”
Challenging trading environment
Britain’s hospitality sector is currently battling high tax burdens, regulatory pressures and rising operational costs, with the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) expecting to see one pub shut per day in 2025.
Simmons is the latest in a long line of businesses to collapse due to cost pressures. BrewDog recently announced it would cull 10 bars and Oakman Inns also filed for administration, with 14 of its sites acquired by Upham Inns.
The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) has predicted that 378 pubs will close this year across England, Wales and Scotland – more than one per day on average – amounting to more than 5,600 job losses.
Simmons’ value-led offering focuses on 18 to 27-year-old professionals and students. Last October, it launched its first venue outside the capital in Deansgate, Manchester, complete with Americana-themed decor and a karaoke booth fitted out to look like a music recording studio.
Founded by CEO Nick Campbell back in 2013, Simmons operated more than 20 sites across London.
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