Nightcap sees 17% rise in site EBITDA despite difficult trading environment
Nightcap added that the full-year contribution from its new sites, along with the refurbishment programme, was expected to support continued revenue and profit growth in the year ahead
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Bar operator Nightcap has reported a 17% rise in site EBITDA to £9.4m and a return to profit for the year to September 2025, outperforming the wider UK bar market despite a difficult trading environment.
Unaudited figures revealed that company EBITDA reached £1.5m compared with a £4.8m loss in 2024, while group revenues increased to £57.5m from £55.6m the previous year.
The group said the performance was supported by investment in new venues and the integration of Brighton’s i360, acquired in 2024.
Three new sites, The Piano Works in Cardiff, Drift Bar and Grill in Brighton, and Afters in Clapham, opened during the year and have become among the top performers in their local markets.
Backed by a £3.4m equity raise in May, Nightcap also completed a series of refurbishments and invested in systems, staffing and artificial intelligence to improve efficiency.
The company said the success of The Piano Works Cardiff had strengthened its plans to roll out the brand nationally and internationally, with new venues being sought in 10 UK cities.
Nightcap added that the full-year contribution from its new sites, along with the refurbishment programme, was expected to support continued revenue and profit growth in the year ahead.
Advance Christmas bookings are also currently 15% ahead of the same point last year.
Furthermore, the group said it remained focused on cost control and operational efficiency while continuing to explore acquisition opportunities that complement its existing portfolio.
The group is confident of achieving its medium-term target to more than double the size of its estate.
Sarah Willingham, chief executive, said: “With the UK economy flatlining and the impact of higher taxes, interest rates and wage costs, the hospitality sector continues to face headwinds. We are addressing these challenges by leaning into growing trends such as live music and community-focused venues where people want to spend time and socialise.”
