Karen"s Diner goes into liquidation after UK closures
- Viral Venues, the owner of Karen's Diner and Broadway Diner, has gone into liquidation after closing its UK restaurants due to financial pressures.
- Over 2,500 clients who paid for events are now facing uncertainty, as these events are unlikely to take place.
- Liquidators have been appointed to assist affected parties and provide guidance on the next steps.
The company behind Karen's Diner and Broadway Diner has entered liquidation following the closure of its UK locations. The Prestwich restaurant, known for its rude staff, closed in June of the previous year after two years of operation, while the Broadway Diner at the Trafford Centre shut down a week later after just eight months. Viral Venues, the owner, aimed to pivot the brands into pop-up touring ventures but faced mounting financial pressures, including a winding-up petition from a creditor. Liquidators have been appointed for Viral Ventures, which originally started in Australia and went into liquidation there last year. The financial difficulties have left over 2,500 clients who paid for events in limbo, as these events are now unlikely to proceed. Customers who made deposits for future shows, including those scheduled for Glasgow, are advised to contact their credit card companies for potential refunds. Jeremy Frost and Patrick Wadsted from Frost Group Limited have been named as liquidators. Frost expressed the challenges faced by businesses like Viral Ventures during liquidation and acknowledged the disappointment felt by customers and employees. The liquidators are focused on guiding those affected through the process and ensuring that necessary steps are taken to address their concerns. A dedicated website has been established for customers, creditors, and employees to submit inquiries. The liquidators have extended their sympathy to all impacted parties and are working closely with them to achieve the best possible outcome during this difficult time.