Excellent time to invest, says former GBK boss

29 November 2010 by
Excellent time to invest, says former GBK boss

Now is an "excellent time to invest in good concepts", according to Clapham House co-founder Paul Campbell.

Campbell, who with David Page launched the Clapham House Group in 2003 and subsequently acquired Gourmet Burger Kitchen, quit the business on Friday (26 November) after its £30m-plus takeover by Nando's owner Capricorn Ventures.

Today he officially launched Hill Capital, a corporate advisory and restaurant investment fund, which will encompass his existing personal investments in Tortilla Mexican Grill and steak concept Hawksmoor, and add further businesses to its books.

"The UK economy is in a difficult spot at the moment and a lot of weaker brands are struggling," Campbell told Caterersearch. "However it's an excellent time to invest in good concepts, which will come through this post-recession period and really fly in a year or so's time when things improve."

Hill Capital will provide advice and development capital for concepts ready to take the next step, although Campbell stressed his interest was not necessarily in building huge chains, merely growing good businesses.

"I had enormous fun establishing and building Clapham House over the past seven years. The Company now has well-resourced new owners who understand the casual dining market as well as anyone. It is time for me to move on to new challenges," said Campbell.

Clapham House's chairman David Page is also believed to have resigned from the group.

Hawksmoor opens second site in Covent Garden >>

Clapham House directors step down ahead of company delisting from stock market >>

Nando's owner buys Gourmet Burger Kitchen operator Clapham House Group in £30m deal >>

Gourmet Burger King boss buys a stake in Tortilla >>

By Chris Druce

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