The rocky road of Brexit is having an impact on restaurants in the UK, and Jamie’s Italian is one of many struggling along with the falling value of the British pound amidst the uncertain future of the United Kingdom and its neighbours. A total of 25 Jamie’s Italian restaurants are set to close, with the Jamie Oliver Restaurant Group headed into administration.
In a post on Instagram (@jamieoliver), Jamie Oliver wrote, “I’m devastated that our much-loved UK restaurants have gone into administration. I am deeply saddened by this outcome and would like to thank all of the people who have put their hearts and souls into this business over the years.”
So what does this mean for the Hong Kong restaurants? Big Cat Group opened Jamie’s Italian Causeway Bay in 2015 at Soundwill Plaza and another at Harbour City in TST less than a year later, then added a Jamie’s Deli grab ‘n’ go option two years ago to the existing Jamie’s location there.
The press release issued today announced that the restaurants here will continue business as usual.
William Lyon, CEO of Big Cat Group, says, “It is sad to hear of the challenges the UK are facing to their business, and we wish them the best as they navigate the next steps. Our Jamie’s Italian businesses are not affected by the UK administration and continue to trade well, and our Jamie’s Deli has seen 40 per cent LFL growth. We look forward to continuing to welcome back our guests who regularly dine with us.”
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