Harrogate gin brand rescued after administration as new owners step in – but town centre shop to close
A popular gin brand in Harrogate has been given a new lease of life after being rescued out of administration in a deal that will see production continue and some jobs saved.
Spirit of Harrogate Limited, the company behind Slingsby Gin, entered administration on 18 March 2026, with Matthew Russell and Gareth Lewis, of Lewis Business Recovery & Insolvency, appointed as Joint Administrators.
Following what has been described as an “intense period of marketing”, the business and its assets were immediately sold to Brightside Spirits Ltd in a pre-packaged deal on the same day.
The agreement ensures the continuation of the well-known Slingsby brand and its product range, which will remain available to customers across the United Kingdom.
However, the company’s shop on Montpellier Parade in Harrogate has closed due to high overhead costs, although customers will still be able to purchase the gin online.
Gareth Lewis, Joint Administrator, said: “I am pleased to report that the pre-packaged sale will see the continuation of the well-respected Slingsby Gin product range and brand, maintaining continuity of supply to customers across the UK.
“The sale has maximised the return for creditors and preserved some jobs, all of which will be reported on in line with my duties as Joint Administrator.”
He added that stakeholders seeking further information should contact his colleague Olivia Oates by calling 0113 2459444.
Marcus Black and Michael Carthy, Co-Founders of the company, welcomed the outcome, saying they were “pleased that the brand will continue” and that some employees would remain involved under the new ownership.
They added: “We wish them all every success and are proud that Slingsby will still be available to its loyal and longstanding customers.”
Brightside Spirits Ltd, led by director Chris Williams, has positioned the acquisition as a commitment to both the product and the local community.
He said: “As a local couple, we are delighted to be part of bringing this much-loved gin back to life.
“We couldn’t stand by and watch a brand with such strong heritage potentially disappear.
"When the opportunity arose to acquire the business out of administration, we knew we had a responsibility, not just to the product, but to the community that has championed it from the very beginning.”
Mr Williams said the immediate priority would be stabilising the business and rebuilding production, while maintaining the quality and character of the gin.
He added that there are plans to invest in the brand, strengthen local partnerships, and explore new opportunities to showcase its Yorkshire roots.
He said: “We’re excited to get to work and can’t wait to share what’s coming next.
“Keep an eye on our website and social media channels for updates.”