Gatecrasher unveils plans after pre-pack administration

The group said it plans to ‘re-model’ its flagship club in Birmingham, with new lighting and special effects across its four rooms. Its Nottingham site is being rebranded and it has applied to extend the venue’s capacity.

Leeds​​

Its Leeds venue has been closed as it “no longer fits with the brands plans due to its location, size and limitations in terms of development”.

However, Gatecrasher is “actively seeking” a new city centre venue in Leeds with a 3,000 capacity to rival its Birmingham flagship.  The Watford venue Cameo has also just re-opened for business following a major property upgrade.

Pre-pack administration​​

Last week the Publican's Morning Advertiser sister title M&C Report revealed that the Gatecrasher business had undergone a pre-pack administration after finding itself unable to pay its debts, which included £3m to Barclays Bank and £500,000 to HM Revenue & Customs.

Gatecrasher said it has now completed a strategic corporate restructuring programme “allowing the brand to diversify and continue growth both domestically and globally”. It also said it would be returning to producing the events and festivals.  It also has plans to open clubs in major location such as London, New York and Singapore.

Simon Raine, Gatecrasher chief executive, said: “The restructuring was the only option available to ensure the continued viability and growth of the business and also preserve jobs.”

Fake Vodka​

Gatecrasher also defended itself over reports​ of one of its former venues selling counterfeit alcohol.

On 15 August Gatecrasher Bars & Clubs was fined £5,000 and £2095.67 costs for selling industrial alcohol as vodka at a student fresher event at its Bed venue in Leeds.

In a statement Gatecrasher said the vodka that Trading Standards found on September 2012 was in a storeroom for disposal later that evening and none of the vodka was ever sold.

Gatecrasher said it will appeal against the Trading Standard ruling.