A major UK bar and restaurant chain has announced that one of its branches is to close down. Slug and Lettuce, who have 77 locations across the country, is to close its Bournemouth town centre branch on February 27.
Known for its lively atmosphere and cocktains The Slug & Lettuce on Old Christchurch Road has been operating in the popular seaside town for eight years. This branch opened in 2018, following an investment of £390,000. Built on the former Yates pub site on Dean Park Crescent, this venue became the town centre’s second Slug & Lettuce, joining the original location on Richmond Hill.
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Confirming the closure a spokesperson for the business thanked customers for “celebrating unforgettable moments” with them.
The statement read: “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.”
Slug & Lettuce bars are facing significant struggles as their parent company, Stonegate Pub Group, is battling millions in debt.
The company is facing a £3 billion financial shortfall that emerged following its 2019 merger with rival Ei, completed only months before Covid struck and severely impacted the industry.
Stonegate, which operates more than 4,400 other hospitality venues in the UK, is considering selling roughly 1,000 venues to raise cash and avoid insolvency.