The Real Greek restaurant chain has been partially rescued from administration, with Karali Group purchasing 19 of its 28 outlets on May 1, 2026. However, this rescue comes with the painful reality of nine closures and over 150 job losses.
Of the 509 jobs across the chain, 358 will remain as part of this restructuring effort. The company’s last accounts revealed an operating loss of £3.6 million, prompting its owners to consider appointing administrators before the deal was struck. Now, as the hospitality sector grapples with rising costs and inflation, the fate of employees hangs in the balance.
Key facts:
- The Real Greek was founded in London in 1999 and quickly became a staple of UK casual dining.
- After the rescue, 19 locations will continue to operate while nine will close across London, Bristol, and Scotland.
- The central kitchen operation is set to be shut down as part of the restructuring.
Marcel Khan from Karali Group stated that “the transaction will ensure that the business is placed on a more sustainable footing for the future.” This sentiment echoes a broader struggle within the hospitality sector, where operators face mounting pressures from inflation and increasing labor costs. Toridoll, the parent company of Fulham Shore (which owns The Real Greek), noted that these factors have created a challenging operating environment.
As diners continue to enjoy meals at The Real Greek, there’s an undeniable sense of loss for those whose jobs are affected. The closures reflect a tough reality for many restaurants navigating economic uncertainty. Paul Berkovi expressed satisfaction at securing a future for a beloved brand but acknowledged the difficulty for those impacted by these changes: “We will now do everything we can to support colleagues affected by this process.”
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