Boo Burger has only been open for two-and-a-half years
Boo is in Gallowtree Gate next to the Clock Tower
A Leicester city centre burger bar has announced it will be closing after just two-and-a-half years of trading.
Boo Burger, in Gallowtree Gate, next to the Clock Tower, has announced it will be closing down after opening its doors in March 2024.
According to the company, the site is closing due to the current market conditions being “very challenging”, as rent continues to rise and business rate support is “no longer available”, making the store “economically unviable”.
The company also said that the closure is due to Gallowtree Gate’s demographic not being in line with that of the overall brand.
The site is expected to close in mid-September, with no exact date released yet.
A spokesperson for the company said: “After two-and-a-half years of trading, we’ve made the difficult decision to close our Gallowtree Gate site. We’ll be closing our doors mid September.
“The reality is that current market conditions are very challenging. Premium beef burger operators find it increasingly difficult to compete in budget-driven environments, where lower cost concepts, particularly chicken, are better positioned to succeed. Even major brands like Five Guys have faced similar challenges in Leicester City Centre.
“With rents continuing to rise and business rates support no longer available, the site has become economically unviable.
“Our landlord has been extremely supportive throughout and has genuinely tried to help us find a solution, but we’ve mutually agreed that this location is no longer viable.
“The good news is that Boo isn’t going anywhere. We’ll continue operating from our London Road restaurant, which is set to undergo a full refurbishment, alongside some exciting new menu additions.
“We’re also taking the next step with our fried chicken concept, which has already been operating successfully as a virtual brand across nine locations nationwide. It’s now getting its first permanent home with a brick-and-mortar restaurant opening on the ever popular Evington Road.
“It’s incredibly disappointing to have to close this site, but ultimately Gallowtree Gate wasn’t the right demographic for our brand.
“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported us at this site over the last two-and-a-half years. Your support has meant a lot to us, and we hope to see you again at one of our other stores.”
