GBK restaurant chain bought in rescue deal

GBK had reopened 37 of its 62 UK stores for full service by August 13 and one of its five stores in Ireland. File picture: PA

International restaurant chain Gourmet Burger Kitchen (GBK) — which runs over 60 outlets in the UK and five in Ireland — has been acquired from its South African owner in a so-called pre-pack rescue deal.

The UK-based Boparan Restaurant Group (BRG) has taken over GBK, saying the deal will save 35 restaurants and 669 jobs. However, more than 360 people will be made redundant with 26 outlets due to close.