Sixes, the cricket-themed entertainment venue chain backed by England star Ben Stokes, has entered administration. The company cited challenging trading conditions as administrators move to secure a rescue deal. The Southampton site will close immediately.
The chain operates 16 venues across England and one in the West Indies. All remaining locations will continue to operate and honor existing bookings while FRP Advisory seeks buyers. Administrators were appointed on Wednesday.
Tony Wright, joint administrator and partner at FRP, acknowledged the business faces pressure. «Sixes has built a strong brand in the social entertainment space with its unique venues proving very popular with customers,» he said.
Rescue efforts underway
Administrators report early interest from potential buyers. «While some locations have struggled in an increasingly competitive market, the business has significant potential, and we're encouraged by the early interest we've received from parties interested in acquiring the brand and its strongest-performing sites,» Wright explained.
The company faces fierce competition in the so-called competitive socialising market. Rivals include Flight Club and Junkyard Golf. Reduced consumer spending has added pressure across the hospitality sector.
Wright emphasized customer commitments will be honored. «Our priority is to secure the best outcome for the business and its stakeholders while ensuring customers can continue to enjoy their bookings through the Christmas period and beyond,» he stated.
Investor backing
Sixes was founded in 2020 by Calum Mackinnon and Andy Waugh. The company secured funding in 2023 from 4Cast Investment Group, which includes England cricket stars Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer, and Stuart Broad as investors.
Administrators remain optimistic about the chain's future. «We're confident that with the right investment and focus, Sixes can build on its core strengths,» Wright said.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
