The Byron burger restaurant chain has been saved from collapse for a third time in ten years, securing a future under new ownership. This latest rescue follows the group filing to appoint administrators in September, marking another turbulent chapter for the once-popular brand.
A Decade of Turbulence and a Dramatic Downsizing
Byron's recent history has been defined by significant contraction. The group, which was formerly owned by Tristar Foods, once operated 65 locations across Britain, including a site in Birmingham. However, a series of financial struggles led to the closure of a staggering 58 of those restaurants. According to its current website, only seven locations now remain.
This drastic reduction was not just a blow to the high street but also resulted in the loss of hundreds of jobs. The announcement of the closures left both consumers and employees reeling, as the chain's burger empire suffered a severe hit.
New Owners with Big Ambitions
According to a report in The Sunday Times, the chain has now been purchased by the investment group Niyamo Capital. The firm, led by Akshat Tibrewala, has taken a majority stake in the business with the clear intention of reviving its fortunes.
Mr Tibrewala outlined his vision, stating the plan is to return to Byron's core identity. "What we essentially want to do with Byron is look at the identity – proper hamburger, good-quality meat and British brand origin – and rebrand it for new consumer tastes and preferences," he said. This could include embracing contemporary trends like smashed burgers.
Fundamentals Remain Strong Despite Challenges
Despite the well-documented struggles, the investment group was attracted by the underlying business. "We saw that the fundamentals of the business are good," Tibrewala told The Sunday Times. "When we looked at the numbers, we figured that with some operational efficiencies and some cost reductions, we can get this across into the green." He added that November was a good month for the chain, indicating early positive signs.
Remarkably, even after the extensive closures, the business continues to generate an estimated £11 million in annual revenue. The new owners are not just aiming to stabilise the UK operation; they have ambitious plans for international growth, with Dubai cited as a key target market alongside a renewed push in Britain.
The rescue by Niyamo Capital provides a glimmer of hope for the remaining Byron outlets and its workforce. The coming months will reveal whether this third attempt at revival can successfully adapt the brand for modern diners and restore its place in the competitive casual dining sector.
