A popular bar in Manchester will not be closing down after all (Image: Getty)
A popular UK bar that had announced its collapse just days ago has now confirmed a sudden U-turn, with its Manchester venue reopening after being “saved” at the last minute. Point Blank, famous for its simulated shooting range experience, revealed the change in a new statement after saying earlier this month that all three of its sites would shut with immediate effect.
Point Blank had originally announced it was entering liquidation after losing access to its Manchester premises. The landlord had gone into administration, and the bar said the resulting lease issues triggered a collapse across the wider business. The company called the situation “unforeseen and beyond our control” and said closing all venues, in Newcastle, Leeds and Manchester, had been unavoidable.
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Point Blank announced it was entering liquidation last week (Image: Point Blank)
But after what the owners describe as “intense discussions”, the Manchester site has now been brought back under the control of the Point Blank Group and reopened to customers.
In a new update shared on social media, the owners said: “The last couple of weeks have been incredibly difficult, and until the last few days, we didn’t have clarity ourselves.
“Due to the unforgiving climate in our sector and our landlord going into administration, we were locked out of our Manchester venue with no notice.
“As an independent business, this caused a huge knock-on effect, and sadly, we were left with no choice but to shut all three sites with immediate effect.”
However, they confirmed that a breakthrough has now been reached, saying: “We really didn’t think Point Blank would survive this one, but after intense discussions, we have managed to secure the keys back for our Manchester site.
Customers reacted with relief after fears the brand had disappeared for good (Image: Point Blank)
“This means Point Blank Manchester will be reopening, now under the direct control of the Point Blank Group.”
Despite the reprieve for Manchester, the two remaining venues, Leeds and Newcastle, are still closed.
The owners said they are working urgently behind the scenes to find a way forward.
They added: “This is the first step in fighting our way back. At this time, Leeds and Newcastle remain closed but we are doing everything we can behind the scenes and will share any further updates.”
Customers reacted with relief after fears the brand had disappeared for good.
One person said: “Great news! We can’t wait to visit you in Manchester again.”
Another wrote: “This is great news, fingers crossed for everyone and hope as many of you can keep your jobs as possible!”
A third added: “Well done for persevering. Really hope you guys can get through this and come out stronger. Absolutely LOVE PB!!”
Someone else commented: “Brilliant news. Times are hard for everyone in hospitality and to bounce back to get things back to normal as much as can be, is a true reflection of a great brand and team. You have all our support. Keep on shooting.”
The Manchester venue, at 78 Deansgate, M3 2FW, first opened six years ago in the basement formerly occupied by Red Door.
