Partners Group, the private equity owner of UK-based French restaurant chain Côte, is exploring a sale of the business and has engaged Interpath Advisory to run the process, according to a report from Sky News.

The Swiss investment firm acquired Côte out of administration in autumn 2020 in a deal reportedly worth £55m. At the time, the business operated nearly 100 sites. Today, that number has fallen to just over 70 locations, with around 60 said to remain profitable. Sources suggest the sale could result in further closures as the company continues to navigate a challenging trading environment.

Interpath is reportedly marketing the business off the back of 2023 revenues exceeding £150m.

The auction process comes as the wider UK hospitality sector grapples with mounting financial pressures. Kate Nicholls, chair of UK Hospitality, warned of potential job losses of up to 200,000 across the industry if economic conditions continue to deteriorate. She cited government policies around national insurance contributions as a key contributor to sector-wide uncertainty.

The potential divestment signals a pivotal moment for Côte and its private equity backer, as they weigh strategic options in a tough consumer landscape.

Partners Group has declined to comment on the sale process. Interpath was not immediately available for comment. 

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