The Revel Collective to appoint administrators, 2,200 jobs at risk

The Revel Collective, which used to be known as Revolution Bars, has resolved to file a notice of intention to appoint administrators yesterday (26 January) to the company and several subsidiaries. 

The move follows discussions with secured lenders, and is expected to put more than 2,200 jobs at risk across the hospitality group. 

The company is known for brands including Revolution, Revolución de Cuba, and Peach Pubs, and remains in advanced discussions with potential acquirers. 

Board members anticipate a further announcement regarding the formal sale process within the coming days.

Action to protect creditors was taken after the board determined that any potential transaction is unlikely to deliver a return to shareholders. Administrators are expected to be appointed within 10 business days unless circumstances change.

The business will continue to trade while the company works with advisers to preserve value for stakeholders. However, trading in the company ordinary shares on AIM remains suspended and is unlikely to be restored before administrators are appointed.

Revel reported group revenues of £26.3m for the first quarter of the 2026 financial year, down 7.4% on a like-for-like basis compared with the same period last year. The decline was mainly due to a 10.5% fall in bar sales, which the company attributed to fragile consumer confidence among younger customers and unusually warm summer weather that reduced high street trade.

In addition, net debt widened to £25.3m as of 30 September, compared with £22.1m at the end of June.

While the group said it expected stronger trading over the festive season, it warned that quieter months in January and February 2026 were “likely to create funding pressure”. Revel’s forecasts also indicated in October 2025 that additional capital would be needed early in the new year to help the group remain within banking limits.

Michael Lynch, partner at DMH Stallard and restructuring and insolvency specialis, said: “From a legal perspective, administration can be a reset for a business and put it onto a stronger footing going forward; if a purchase of the business does take place, it can save jobs and reinvigorate the business.”