Byron Burgers to close Corn Exchange restaurant after two years

Burger chain Byron is to make an early exit from the Corn Exchange development in Manchester, two years after opening.

It launched in 2015 as the second phase of openings in the 141,700sq ft dining destination. It is expected to close early next year.

A spokesman from Aviva Investors, owner of the Corn Exchange, said: "We can confirm that we are in talks with Byron as they look to consolidate their offer in Manchester from three restaurants to two.

"While still at an early talks stage we have already received multiple offers of interest in the unit should we collectively decide to move forward with lease negotiations."

Byron told The Caterer that the closure was part of "long term business planning".

A spokesperson said: "Byron is currently working with KPMG on long term business planning and like all businesses of our size, we are conducting a review of performance and where we invest capital. Byron have four restaurants under review as part of our careful management of the estate. As a result of this review, one restaurant, at the Metrocentre in Gateshead, closed in August 2017.

"In the event of any closures, it is Byron's policy to do everything possible to redeploy staff to other stores and other initiatives. As we develop our business, we continue to look at new growth opportunities, including the opening of new restaurants, such as in Bath, and look forward to a busy 2018."

This week it was announced that Simon Cope was promoted from managing director to chief executive of Byron Hamburgers, following the departure of Andy Manders in May.

Simon Cope appointed CEO of Byron >>

Tom Byng to leave Byron >>

Andy Manders to step down as Byron CEO >>

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