Slug & Lettuce, a prominent UK bar chain boasting 77 locations, has announced the imminent closure of its Bournemouth town centre branch on Friday, February 27. The company described the branch as an “outstanding” seaside venue, expressing gratitude to customers for years of shared memories over signature drinks, bottomless brunches, and lively celebrations.
A spokesperson stated, “Sadly, we’re saying goodbye to our beloved Slug & Lettuce Bournemouth on 27th February. We’ve had the best time serving up your favourite sips and tasty dishes, enjoying bottomless brunches and celebrating unforgettable moments together. Thank you for being such a special part of our journey.”
This closure is part of a wider restructuring initiative following the recent shutdowns of the Slug & Lettuce branches in Westcliff-on-Sea (December) and Brentwood (August). Meanwhile, estate agent Savills has been appointed to manage the sale of 22 pubs across England owned by Stonegate Group, the parent company of Slug & Lettuce and Be At One.
READ MORE: Midlands Council Chief’s Salary Set to Exceed £200K After Above-Inflation Increase
READ MORE: Walsall Council Leaders to Face Questions on Museum Plans, Fly-Tipping, and Antisocial Behaviour
Stonegate, which operates approximately 4,300 venues, is reportedly considering selling a significant portion of its portfolio. Reports indicate that around 1,000 “platinum” pubs could be put on the market, with a combined estimated value nearing £1 billion. Despite achieving a turnover exceeding £1.7 billion last year, Stonegate carries debts surpassing £3 billion.
A Stonegate spokesperson told Birmingham Live: “We are looking at options for the Platinum portfolio, of circa 1,000 Leased and Tenanted pubs, which could include a refinancing, partial sale, or full sale of the Platinum sites, but as we explained to our bondholders, no decisions have been made. We are continuing to make good progress on our transformation strategy.”
This signals a potentially significant reshaping of one of the UK’s largest pub operators as it navigates financial challenges and structural changes in the hospitality industry.