A prominent pub chain in London, Antic Hospitality Group, has fallen into administration, putting up to 13 popular pubs and bars at risk of closure. The group, known for its eclectic collection of establishments across East and South London, announced its downfall this week, raising concerns for the future of these beloved watering holes.
The news comes after administrators were appointed on July 12 for four sites under the Antic Pub umbrella. Steve Absolom and Will Wright from Interpath Advisory have taken on the role of joint administrators for Elflock Limited, Babel Silk Limited, Brocade Limited and De Gremio Limited. The exact number of employees affected by this decision remains unclear.
Speaking to The Caterer, joint administrators Steve Absolom and Will Wright noted that the affected pubs are “well-known and popular” and occupy “prime sites” in South London. They expressed their intention to bring these units to market for potential investors and trade purchasers, offering a “fantastic opportunity.”
Despite the administration, patrons can find solace in the fact that all affected establishments will continue to operate while a new owner is sought. Interpath has attributed the group’s struggles to “legacy liabilities” stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Mirror.
This isn’t the first time Antic has faced adversity. In 2013, a dozen pubs under its subsidiary, Antic Limited, entered administration due to tax-related issues. However, they were all successfully acquired within a month.
The list of pubs affected by the current administration includes:
* Dogstar (Brixton)
* Gremio de Brixton (Brixton)
* Balham Bowls Club (Balham)
* East Dulwich Tavern (East Dulwich)
* Tooting Tram and Social (Tooting)
* The Sun (Camberwell)
* Antelope (Tooting)
* Clapton Hart (Clapton)
* The Elephant and Castle Pub (Elephant and Castle)
* Hagen & Hyde (Balham)
* Graveney & Meadow (Tooting)
* Red Lion (Leytonstone)
* Coopers (Crystal Palace)
Meanwhile, Wetherspoon, another pub chain, has also announced plans to close several of its sites in England. Tim Martin, the chairman of JD Wetherspoon, stated that despite the ongoing recovery from the pandemic, the chain will continue to adjust to the changing landscape, with fewer pubs but higher sales per pub.
The closure of these pubs highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the hospitality industry in the wake of the pandemic, with many establishments struggling to recover from the financial strain caused by lockdowns and restrictions.
