The Revel Collective, the national bar and gastro pub operator trading primarily under the Revolution, Revolución de Cuba, and Peach Pubs brands, has filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators.
The move follows confirmation late last year that the group was actively pursuing a formal sale process to identify a buyer or buyers for the business. While those discussions are understood to be well advanced, the company has acknowledged that the transactions currently under consideration are not expected to deliver any return to shareholders, prompting action to safeguard creditor interests.
Unless circumstances change, administrators are expected to take control of the business and its portfolio of around 60 venues within 10 business days.
The group has confirmed that it will continue to trade during the notice period, including its Revolution and Revolución de Cuba venues in Glasgow and Aberdeen, while working with advisers to “preserve as much value as possible for all stakeholders” as the sale process progresses.
The Revel Collective, which rebranded from Revolution Bars Group following a restructuring in October 2024, attributed its financial difficulties to the cumulative impact of government interventions announced in the most recent Budget. The company said these measures had undermined efforts to improve trading performance across the estate.
Founded in 1991 as a single bar in Ashton-under-Lyne, Manchester, the business was established by Roy Ellis and Neil Macleod, both of whom exited the company in 2013.
The group is currently led by chief executive Rob Pitcher, with the 2024 restructuring also seeing entrepreneur Luke Johnson appointed as non-executive chairman.
The filing of a notice of intention to appoint administrators provides the company with a short period of legal protection from creditor action while options are explored.
During this time, creditors cannot commence or continue legal proceedings without court permission.
The business is continuing to trade, which may help preserve value while a sale of some or all of the business is pursued.
If administrators are appointed, they will assess whether a sale, restructuring, or closure of venues offers the best outcome for creditors.
Unsecured creditors should be aware that recoveries will depend on the value realised from any sale and the level of secured and preferential claims.
Written ByRobert Moore
Marketing Manager
Rob has over two decades of experience in web and general marketing. He has extensive knowledge of the Insolvency sector and has helped many worried directors with their questions.
Rob is now working with the Board at RMT to develop strategic marketing programmes to support the business plan and drive more company rescues.
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