​A New Chapter for the South West Burger Group Hub Box

In a significant development, the burger chain Hub Box has been successfully bought out of administration. This acquisition, led by South West Restaurants and headed by Hub Box’s original founder, Richard Boon, ensures the continuation of the brand’s operations across its ten restaurant locations.

The strategic purchase means that all ten Hub Box restaurants, predominantly located in the southwest of England, will remain open. These include branches in Truro, St Ives, Pentewan, Falmouth, Exeter, Cardiff, Cheltenham, Dorchester, Taunton, and Portsmouth. As part of the deal, the company’s 300 employees will be transferred to the new ownership, providing job security during a challenging economic period.

Hub Box, established in St Ives, Cornwall, in 2003, had expanded to twelve sites at its peak. However, the chain recently faced significant financial pressures due to escalating food, energy, and labour costs. In response to these challenges, Hub Box has collaborated with Interpath Advisory to explore investment opportunities to sustain its operations and facilitate future growth. On 11 July, Steve Absolom and Will Wright from Interpath Advisory were appointed joint administrators for the business.

Sam Birchall, Head of Special Situations at Interpath Advisory, commented: “Hub Box has grown a loyal customer base in the South West but, like many other casual dining operators, has been hit hard in recent years by high-cost inflation. We’re pleased to have secured this transaction, which safeguards the future of the brand and, importantly, preserves employment for 300 staff. We wish all at the company the best for the future.”

This acquisition marks a pivotal moment for Hub Box, offering a renewed sense of stability and the potential for continued growth under familiar leadership.