The founders of Bourgee have confirmed its restaurants are under new ownership, but announced plans to relaunch the brand elsewhere.
A company that formed part of the business entered administration earlier this month, and the brand's four restaurants were closed.
A statement from James Welling and Mark Baumann, the founding directors of the steak and lobster brand, said the former sites will be trading under a new company name, and announced that they will be opening new Bourgee restaurants which they would own and operate.
The group has previously detailed plans to open venues in Norwich and Colchester.
âDespite exhaustive efforts to purchase and retain all venues, a way forward could not be agreed. As a consequence the ownership of these restaurants has passed to a new owner.
âWe would like to reiterate that these units are no longer part of the Bourgee Restaurant brand, and will be trading under a new company name. They will have no association whatsoever with Bourgee or with us individually.
âWe understand that the sudden closures have left customers confused and disappointed. We sincerely apologise for this.
âUnder our sole ownership, we will be moving forward with the stunning Bourgee Bites â" Bar â" Luxe Lounge at London Southend Airport. In addition, we look forward to soon be announcing exciting news regarding new Bourgee restaurant venues.
âThese venues will be entirely owned and operated by us as a duo, and will continue to build on the Bourgee brand, concept and delivery that has been so warmly received since launch in 2014. We would like to thank Bourgee fans for their loyal commitment to the restaurants over the last four years and look forward to welcoming them again as we step into a new era for the brand.â
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