Changing trends forces GBPA winner to close
7 Saints in Prestwick, Scotland, which took home the title of Best Newcomer of the Year at the 2018 awards, opened in 2016 and is owned by Nick Livingstone, who also runs a site of the same name in Kilmarnock.
The post on Facebook announcing the closure on Monday (10 June) said: “Today we are extremely saddened to announce 7 Saints Prestwick will be closing its doors.
“With changing consumer trends are larger economic pressures, it has become uneconomical to continue trading.
“As a small independent, these challenges are difficult to deal with, but coupled with a general slowdown of spend in the marketplace and a significant downturn in footfall to the area, it has become impossible.”
Amazing times
It went on to outline how the closure would impact staff and thanked the team as well as suppliers it had worked with.
It read: “We have been lucky to share some amazing times with our customers. Being recognised nationally for what we do and won numerous awards. We couldn’t have done any of that without the commitment of our amazing staff who have all been contacted by the owner personally.
“Some staff have been offered transfers and all staff have the option of a guaranteed interview with a larger local hospitality company who kindly offering to support in this time.
“We would also like to take a moment to thank our local suppliers who we are working closely with to minimise the impact on and who are hope will continue to be part of our journey in Kilmarnock with a progression of the brand coming soon.
“Customers who loved our burgers and cocktails will be able to continue to enjoy them at our Kilmarnock venue, which has been received exceptionally well and continues to go from strength to strength.”
Renewed focus
The post also urged customers to visit its Kilmarnock venue and advised on what they could do if they had vouchers for the Prestwick site.
It added: “It will, however, be undergoing some small changes and new content will be launching soon. With the introduction of live music, sport and a more expansive drinks menu with a renewed focus on traditional bar drinks.
“We will be bringing more entertainment and fun to the venue than ever before. Look out for themed quizzes, open mic nights and lots of activity around live sport.
“It is open as normal and our staff are looking forward to seeing some familiar faces. Any vouchers can be used in the Kilmarnock venue. We are currently working with It-Is-On (a discount website) to discuss what will happen with the vouchers and they should be the contact for clarity.”
The 7 Saints Facebook page will be merging with the Kilmarnock site’s one.
