Slingsby Gin maker sold out of administration in pre-pack deal

The maker of Slingsby Gin has been sold out of administration following an accelerated marketing process, with the transaction preserving the core brand while highlighting ongoing pressure on UK premium drinks producers.

Spirit of Harrogate entered voluntary administration on 18 March 2026, with Gareth Lewis and Matthew Russell of Lewis Business Recovery and Insolvency appointed as joint administrators. Founded in 2014, the business built a premium positioning in the UK gin market, leveraging local provenance and rapid brand development during a period of strong category growth. However, like many operators in the sector, it faced margin compression as input costs increased and consumer demand softened, particularly in discretionary premium categories.

Immediately upon their appointment, the administrators completed a pre-pack sale of the business and assets to Brightside Spirits Ltd, a newly incorporated Harrogate-based vehicle. The transaction was structured to ensure continuity of the Slingsby product line and maintain supply channels across the UK, while seeking to maximise realisations for creditors.

The sale preserves key elements of the operating platform, including the Slingsby brand and associated intellectual property, though the company’s retail footprint has been rationalised, with its Harrogate shop closed due to high overheads. A portion of the workforce has transferred to the purchaser, with the balance of roles understood to have been impacted by the restructuring.