Founders & Co saved as new owner steps in after Revel Collective collapse

Just hours after Swansea Bay News revealed that the co‑owner of Founders & Co was preparing to file for administration, administrators have confirmed that the Wind Street venue will continue operating after being snapped up by Neos Hospitality Group.

The deal comes after The Revel Collective — formerly Revolution Bars Group — entered administration this week, triggering the immediate closure of 21 venues across the UK and putting almost 3,000 jobs at risk.

Neos swoops in to rescue Founders & Co

Administrators FTI Consulting announced that Neos Hospitality has acquired the Revolution, Revolución de Cuba and Founders & Co brands, securing 20 trading sites across the UK.

Neos already operates 19 venues, including the Bonnie Rogues brand — which also has a presence on Swansea’s Wind Street — meaning Founders & Co will now sit alongside a growing portfolio of bars and nightlife destinations.

The acquisition protects 1,582 jobs, including staff at Swansea’s Founders & Co.

Neos has also signalled ambitious expansion plans, including transforming the former Tiger Tiger site in London’s Haymarket into a major new hospitality destination later this year.

But 21 venues shut and nearly 600 jobs lost

While the rescue deal secures the future of Founders & Co, the wider Revel Collective collapse has left a trail of closures.

Administrators confirmed that 14 Revolution Bars, six Revolución de Cuba sites and one Peach Pubs venue have shut with immediate effect, resulting in 591 redundancies.

The closures include both Cardiff’s Revolution and Revolución de Cuba sites.

A business in deep trouble

The Revel Collective had been battling mounting financial pressures for years. Losses reached £36 million over four years, with rising National Insurance costs, minimum wage increases and falling discretionary spending among younger customers all cited as major factors.

The group had already shut 15 bars in 2024 and warned shareholders in December that their equity was likely to be wiped out.

Debt had climbed to £25.3 million, and by autumn the company was openly seeking buyers as liquidity dried up.

On 27 January, the company formally appointed administrators — and its nominated adviser resigned the same day, meaning its shares will be delisted from AIM next month.

What it means for Swansea

For Swansea, the news is a rare bright spot in a grim week for the UK hospitality sector.

Founders & Co — a popular food‑hall‑style venue on Wind Street — will continue trading under Neos Hospitality, whose existing brands already have a foothold in the city.

The move means staff keep their jobs, suppliers retain contracts, and the venue avoids the sudden closure that has hit dozens of others across the UK.

Neos has not yet commented publicly on its plans for the Swansea site, but the group’s track record suggests investment rather than retrenchment.

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Swansea man jailed for six years after stalking ex and attacking man on Wind Street

Saman Ismail, 20, from Sandfields, was sentenced at Swansea Crown Court after being found guilty of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, stalking involving serious alarm or distress, and Section 18 wounding with intent.

The court heard Ismail became “obsessed” with his ex‑partner after their relationship ended in July 2024, repeatedly turning up uninvited at her home and workplace, bombarding her with messages and creating fake social media accounts to contact her.

Violent assault after taking victim’s phone

The abuse escalated on 5 August 2024 when Ismail took the woman’s phone, read her messages and launched a prolonged attack.

Prosecutors said he shoved her to the floor, slapped her repeatedly, headbutted her, pulled her hair, poured water over her and kicked her in the chest. The assault left her with a black eye and multiple bruises to her face and body.

Despite pleading not guilty in January 2025, he was convicted at trial in October.

Wind Street attack left man with serious facial injuries

Weeks later, Ismail confronted a man on Wind Street who he believed had a romantic connection to his former partner.

The court heard he pulled the victim’s head through a car window and punched him several times. When the man tried to escape, Ismail chased him and struck him again while holding an unknown object, causing significant facial injuries and a broken tooth.

Ismail had no previous convictions.

Police: “A violent man who made the victim’s life hell”

South Wales Police said Ismail’s behaviour amounted to an “abhorrent campaign of violence, stalking and intimidation”.

PC Abbie Coles said:

“Saman Ismail is a violent man who launched an abhorrent campaign of violence, stalking and intimidation against his former partner.

“This made the victim’s life hell and she will have felt unable to escape him. This violence was not just limited to her either – as Ismail proved when he attacked someone he thought she had a relationship with.

“He is very jealous and dangerous and was highly likely to continue to offend before officers caught up with him. It is good to see he has received this sentence.”

Judge: defendant acted out of “jealousy and rage”

Judge Catherine Richards told Ismail he had shown an “obsession” with his former partner and jailed him for a total of six years in a young offenders institution. He will serve up to half the sentence in custody before being released on licence.

His barrister said Ismail had fled Syria for safety and had hoped to join the armed forces, but that ambition had now been “blighted” by his conviction.

Support for victims of domestic abuse

Police said they recognised how difficult it can be for survivors to come forward and urged anyone experiencing domestic abuse — physical, sexual, psychological or financial — to seek help.

Victims can report abuse online, via 101, or call 999 in an emergency. Anonymous reports can be made to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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Council promises “dazzling” Fire and Ice Festival in Swansea city centre

Ice and fire promised for city streets

According to Swansea Council, visitors will be able to follow a trail of ice sculptures, step inside a giant snow globe on Portland Street, and try interactive ice carving. Fire and ice shows are scheduled for St David’s Place, with fire performers lighting up Oxford Street. Families are told to expect roaming snowmen and characters from Disney’s Frozen, while the “Caroler’s Cabin” will host choirs and musicians.

Ice trail clues and performance timings released

A promotional map published by Swansea Council shows nine ice sculptures will be hidden across the city centre, each linked to a festive clue. Locations include Princess Way, Oxford Street, the Quadrant, Wind Street, and Castle Square.

Interactive ice carving is scheduled for Portland Street between 11:30am and 3:30pm, while a giant snow globe will be open from 10am to 5pm.

Fire and Ice shows are planned for St David’s Place at 1:30pm, 3pm and 4:30pm, with additional fire performances on Oxford Street at 12pm, 2pm and 3:30pm.

Trail maps will be available at Swansea Market, Costa Coffee branches, and the new central library at Y Storfa.

Music line‑up released by organisers

The council has published a full programme of performers, ranging from community choirs to swing bands, with sets scheduled across Saturday and Sunday. Maps for the ice trail will be available at Swansea Market, Costa Coffee branches on Whitewalls and Oxford Street, and the new central library at the Y Storfa development.

Festival part of wider Christmas programme

Council leader Rob Stewart said the festival was part of efforts to make this “the best Swansea Christmas ever,” following the return of the city’s Christmas Parade. Other attractions promoted by the council include the Christmas Market on Oxford Street and Portland Street until December 22, Mistletoe and Markets on December 13–14, and Waterfront Winterland at Museum Park until January 4.

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Browse all Christmas coverage
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#castleSquare #christmas #fireAndIceShows #frozen #iceCarving #iceSculpting #iceSculpture #oxfordStreet #portlandStreet #princessWay #quadrantShoppingCentre #stDavidsPlace #swansea #swanseaCouncil #swanseaQuadrant #windStreet

Swansea restaurants fined after serving unsafe meals to allergy sufferers

Three Swansea restaurants have been fined thousands of pounds after investigations revealed they had served meals containing undeclared allergens to customers who had specifically warned staff about their allergies.

Trading Standards officers from Swansea Council carried out undercover sampling and inspections at Saporito Pizza and Grill House on Gower Road in Killay, Indian Street Kitchen on Walter Road in Swansea city centre, and Joyato Sushi and Grill on Salubrious Passage, off Wind Street in the city centre. In each case, staff gave false assurances about food safety, but laboratory analysis later confirmed the presence of allergens including gluten, milk and egg.

At Swansea Magistrates’ Court, all three owners admitted offences under the General Food Regulations 2004 and the Food Safety Act 1990, including placing unsafe food on the market and falsely describing menu items.

The penalties varied, but all were significant. The owner of Saporito Pizza and Grill House, Seckin Bulutoglu, was ordered to pay more than £2,000 in fines, surcharges and costs. At Indian Street Kitchen, Muminul Uddin faced a bill of over £2,300. The heaviest penalty was handed to Yanrui Yi, who runs Joyato Sushi and Grill, with fines and costs totalling close to £9,500.

Council officers said the breaches included mislabelled menu items, poor allergen management systems, and a lack of staff training.

Council: “No excuses”

Cllr Andrew Williams, Cabinet Member for Corporate Service (Performance), said the cases showed how dangerous poor allergen practices can be.

“These cases highlight the potentially fatal consequences of failing to manage allergens and provide accurate information to customers,” he said.

“All the businesses involved have no excuses, having received significant advice about staff training and the dangers associated with allergens.

“Swansea Council is committed to protecting public health and will not hesitate to take enforcement action against businesses that put consumers at risk.”

Warning to businesses and customers

The council is urging all food businesses to ensure staff are properly trained and that allergen information is accurate and up to date. Consumers are also advised to ask about allergens and, if in doubt, walk away.

#allergens #cllrAndrewWilliams #featured #foodDrink #foodSafety #gowerRoad #killay #restaurant #salubriousPassage #swansea #swanseaCityCentre #swanseaCouncil #walterRoad #windStreet

Swans legends and city dignitaries mark opening of The Swansea Jack sports bar

The Swansea Jack, located on Little Wind Street, welcomed its first customers on Wednesday afternoon (19 November), offering fans a dedicated space to celebrate the club’s heritage, watch live sport, and connect with fellow supporters.

The venue takes its name from the original Swansea Jack pub near the old Vetch Field, a matchday favourite for generations of fans. Its modern incarnation aims to revive that spirit with big screens, club memorabilia, and regular appearances from Swans legends.

Familiar faces at launch

A pre-launch event held the night before saw a mix of former players, civic leaders and venue partners gather to mark the opening.

Among those attending were Lee Trundle, Àngel Rangel, and Matthew Bound, alongside The Lord Mayor of Swansea Cheryl Philpott, High Sheriff Diana Sara Stroia, and Mal Pope.

Venue owner Dal Dhillon said the response from fans had been immediate:

“We’re delighted with the reaction since opening The Swansea Jack. Our aim has always been to create a true home for Swansea City supporters — a place where the club’s heritage is celebrated and where fans can come together to enjoy unforgettable matchday and non-matchday experiences.”

Club-backed and fan-focused

Swansea City AFC has formally recognised The Swansea Jack as its official sports bar. Club CEO Tom Gorringe said the venue was a welcome addition to the city centre:

“We are pleased to see The Swansea Jack open its doors as the club’s official sports bar right in the heart of Swansea City Centre. We believe the venue celebrates the history and identity of Swansea City in a way that truly resonates with our supporters.”

What fans can expect

Inside, visitors will find a mix of live sport, Swansea City content, and a full food and drink menu. The venue says it plans to host regular events featuring current and former players, with the goal of making it a year-round destination for fans — not just on matchdays.

The Swansea Jack is now open to the public. More information is available at www.theswanseajack.com.

#littleWindStreet #pub #sportsBar #swansea #swanseaCityCentre #swanseaCityFc #theSwanseaJack #windStreet

Carl’s Jr. to open first Swansea restaurant as part of UK expansion

Carl’s Jr., the iconic Californian burger chain, is set to open its first Swansea restaurant on Thursday, 4 September — marking only its second UK location following a successful launch in Cardiff earlier this year.

The new branch will be located on Wind Street in the heart of the city and is part of the brand’s wider UK expansion strategy, which aims to bring its signature chargrilled burgers and American-style menu to more diners across Wales and beyond.

To celebrate the opening, Carl’s Jr. Swansea will offer the first 100 customers through the door a free burger, along with exclusive branded merchandise including hoodies. The giveaway features the chain’s Famous Star® burger made with 100% Angus beef, alongside hand-breaded chicken and indulgent ice cream shakes.

In the lead-up to launch day, the company is running a citywide “Star Hunt” promotion, hiding branded stars around Wind Street. Each star carries a voucher for a free Famous Star® burger, redeemable during opening week.

The restaurant will seat over 40 guests and create around 25 new jobs across kitchen, front-of-house, and management roles. David Moffat, Country Manager for Carl’s Jr. UK, said the Swansea opening continues the brand’s mission to deliver “bold flavour, great service, and quality ingredients” to UK customers.

Operated by Boparan Restaurant Group, Carl’s Jr. plans to open several more UK locations in the coming years, building on its global footprint of more than 1,100 restaurants in 39 countries.

#burger #CarlSJr #CarlSJrSwansea #fastFood #foodDrink #restaurant #StarBurger #Swansea #WindStreet

Slim Chickens to open new Swansea restaurant ‘bringing southern comfort to the city’s favourite party street’

Located on what the restaurant chain calls “Swansea’s most iconic street – famous for its vibrant nightlife and buzzing atmosphere”, the new opening brings something fresh to the table for students, locals, and holidaymakers alike.

To celebrate launch day, Slim Chickens say the first 30 customers through the door will receive a free portion of Slims’ famous chicken tenders, cooked-to-order and full of flavour. Plus, 5,000 Golden Tickets will be handed out, with guaranteed prizes ranging from free food and discounts to the ultimate prize – Free Slim Chickens for a Year.

Guests will also be in with a chance of grabbing exclusive Slim Chickens merch – including fan-favourite hoodies – available in limited quantities throughout the day.

Known for its mouth-watering menu of fresh chicken tenders, wings, wraps, sandwiches, and indulgent sides like fried pickles and Texas toast, Slim Chickens say they deliver bold flavour and real comfort food – all served with 14 house dipping sauces.

The new restaurant will seat over 50 guests in a relaxed setting, with feel-good music, live sports on screen, and a welcoming vibe that’s perfect for groups, solo diners, or casual catch-ups. For those who prefer to enjoy Slims at home (or the beach), orders will also be available via Deliveroo, Uber Eats and Just Eat.

The opening will also bring 35 new jobs to Swansea, as part of Slim Chickens’ continued growth under Boparan Restaurant Group (BRG).

Ben Blore, Head of Operations at Slim Chickens, commented: “Swansea’s a brilliant city – with its mix of students, beach lovers, and buzzing nightlife, it’s the perfect place for Slim Chickens. We’re excited to bring our Southern-inspired

menu to Wind Street and become part of this amazing community.”

#foodDrink #restaurant #SlimChickens #Swansea #WindStreet

Swansea Pride parade and festival returns on Saturday

Once again, the festival is free and an open invitation is extended to all.

The annual parade is set to depart from Wind Street at 11am and will make its way along Oxford Street and St. Helen’s Road to the Guildhall.

A stage will be set up in the car park at the front of the building hosting live entertainment between noon and 7pm.

There will also be food and refreshment stalls as well as traders selling a range of items and merchandise.

Just like last year, the Swansea Pride Community Zone will be indoors in the neighbouring Brangwyn Hall with lots of information stalls from organisations, support services, charities, community groups and some craft traders as well.

Swansea Pride is organised independently but supported by Swansea Council.

Council Cabinet Member for Investment, Regeneration, Events and Tourism, Robert Francis-Davies said: “Once again the council is proud to be supporting the hard-working volunteers who do such a great job in making Swansea Pride the inclusive celebration that it is.

“This year is shaping-up to be as good ever and we are very grateful to them.”

Elliott King, Cabinet Member for Culture, Human Rights and Equalities, said: “Swansea Pride is one of the highlights of the year for the Pride community. It’s a opportunity to celebrate our city’s diversity in a carnival atmosphere of music and colour.

“The main stage will be outside the Guildhall and will offer live entertainment throughout the day.  The Brangwyn Hall will host the Swansea Pride Community Zone, with lots of information stalls from organisations, support services, charities, community groups and some craft traders as well.”

Council leader Rob Stewart, said: “This free event is one of many event  highlights  this year and there is an open invitation for people across Swansea and beyond to come along and enjoy what is always a great carnival atmosphere.”

A full list of acts, activities and other information can be found at www.swanseapride.co.uk

#Guildhall #LGBTQ_ #Parade #Pride #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil #SwanseaPride #WindStreet

Wind Street pub shortlisted for regional award

The Swansea venue, which has been open for less than year, joins the chain’s other Welsh venue in Cardiff in becoming a county finalist in the National Bar & Pub Awards.

The pub’s owners say the venues, which both opened in September 2024, have quickly become popular and forged a loyal following for their Celtic hospitality and lively all-day offerings – adding that they add a distinctly unique and memorable experience to the hospitality scene in Wales’s largest cities.

The bars focus on being a truly modern pub with live music, sport, and fun while enjoying great food and drinks.

Russell Quelch, CEO at NEOS Hospitality which owns Bonnie Rogues, said, “This is a great achievement for Bonnie Rogues and I’m really proud of the teams at the pubs who ensure our guests always enjoy their time with us. The venues have been open for less than a year so to see them already shortlisted for awards is brilliant!”

The National Bar & Pub Awards celebrate the country’s best venues based on design, service, style of offer, marketing and investment. Each county winner also has the chance to be named best in the region. The awards take place on 24 June 2025.

#awards #BonnieRogues #pub #Swansea #WindStreet

Rasoi launches Wales’ first Indian street food vending machine in Swansea

Located on Wind Street, in the heart of Swansea’s nightlife hub, the 24-hour vending machine will offer a fast, convenient and delicious alternative to the current late-night food options.

Designed for night owls, partygoers, or those just looking for a quick snack, the vending machine will provide authentic Indian flavours at the touch of a button any time of the night or day.

Using cutting-edge heating technology, each snack will be served hot, crispy, and full of flavour – just like they would be served at Rasoi’s restaurants in SA1 Waterfront and Pontlliw.

Owner of Rasoi, Suki Kullar, said: “At Rasoi, we are always looking for new ways to bring authentic Indian flavours to Swansea. We know after a night out, people want something quick and easy but aren’t willing to compromise on quality. We think our vending machine will be the answer to that and will be a game-changer for those looking for a late night snack in Swansea.  

“Over the past few months, we’ve worked with leading technology experts to bring this concept to life. If it’s a success, we’re hoping to expand to even more locations across the Swansea Bay region, for even more people to enjoy our award-winning dishes whenever they want at any time of the day.

“It’s an exciting step forward for us, and we’re proud to be the first in Wales to launch this concept. We can’t wait for Swansea to give it a try.”

The Rasoi vending machine will be situated towards the bottom end of Wind Street and will launch at 7pm on Saturday, 5th April. A range of hot snacks will be available including popular items such as onion bhajis and samosas, with prices starting at just £2.95.

The launch marks another milestone for the Kullar brothers, two of Swansea’s most impressive multi-award-winning entrepreneurs. Having opened Rasoi Indian Kitchen in Pontlliw as teenagers, they have since expanded their brand to include Rasoi Waterfront in SA1, Rasoi Catering, and their successful Kullars restaurant brand in the Middle East. 

April fool!

While the Rasoi isn’t launching a new street food vending machine, it is still worth checking out! Visit rasoiindiankitchen.co.uk for more info!

#AprilFool #foodDrink #Pontlliw #Rasoi #SA1 #Swansea #vendingMachine #WindStreet

Highly-anticipated chicken restaurant Wingstop set to open in Swansea

Wingstop will open in Swansea on Monday, February 3. The restaurant will open at 41 Wind Street and will be open from 11am to 11pm every day.

Wingstop currently operates 57 sites across the UK, employing more than 2,500 people, following a rapid expansion programme.

The business opened 18 new locations last year, including a site at Cardiff in May 2023.

As its name suggests, the restaurant specialises in chicken wings as well as boneless wings and tenders which are freshly hand tossed and sauced to order.

They range in heat, mild ‘Hawaiian’ at the lowest end of the scale (described as a “sweet and tangy blend of island citrus balanced with rich Asian flavours) and fiery ‘Atomic’ at the top.

Other options on the menu include a ‘Big Flavour Burger’ and churros. Platters, including the 24-piece wings platter and the 24-piece boneless platter, are also available.

Chris Sherriff, chief executive at Wingstop UK, said:

“2024 has been a landmark year for Wingstop UK, marked by record site openings, a new flagship location and industry accolades.

“This year we are poised for even greater growth, with plans to expand into new regions and create hundreds of jobs.

“Thank you to the brilliant work of all our employees, who drive us to keep growing, whilst providing a personalised and authentic experience to wing-lovers up and down the country.

“There is huge momentum and we can’t wait to bring our flavours to more areas across the UK.”

[Lead image: Wingstop]

#EatingOut #featured #WindStreet #Wingstop

Vicious thug with personalised knuckleduster sentenced after unprovoked attack on stranger in Wind Street bar

Peter Billy Dean Price, 27, of Broadmoor, Kilgetty, Pembrokeshire, had previously pleaded guilty to inflicting grievous bodily harm when he appeared in the dock for sentencing.

The victim needed a total of 34 stitches to his wounds after being assaulted in the toilets of the bar.

Swansea Crown Court heard Peter Price had no recollection of travelling the more than 50 miles from his home in Pembrokeshire to the bar on Swansea’s Wind Street where he attacked a stranger.

Sending Price to prison a judge said the only reason a person would wear a knuckleduster on a night out was to cause maximum damage if it came to a fight.

Price had five previous convictions for seven offences including two assaults by beating and a GBH.

All these offences had involved him punching his victims in the face, with the GBH from 2021 seeing him sentenced to 19 months in prison suspended for 20 months after breaking a man’s jaw. 

Judge Paul Thomas KC said it was clear Price had a savage, uncontrolled temper and had carried out a wholly unprovoked and vicious assault on his victim.

He said the only reason a person would wear a knuckleduster on a night out was to cause ‘maximum damage’ if it came to a fight.

With a one-quarter discount for his guilty plea Price was sentenced to 21 months in prison. He will serve up to half that sentence in custody before being released on licence to serve the remainder in the community.

[Lead image: South Wales Police]

#GBH #SouthWalesPolice #Swansea #WindStreet