White Rabbit Fund acquires Island Poke
White Rabbit Fund was a shareholder in the original Island Poke business, and its ownership will safeguard some 104 hospitality jobs and supplier operations
Hospitality incubator White Rabbit Fund has announced the acquisition of Island Poke’s assets, having recently undertaken a voluntary restructuring.
Island Poke, which serves Hawaiian poke bowls, opened its first permanent restaurant in Soho in 2016.
However, due the economic turmoil of the pandemic coupled with the impact of inflation, the business proposed a company voluntary arrangement (CVA) in May.
White Rabbit Fund was a shareholder in the original Island Poke business, and its ownership will safeguard some 104 hospitality jobs and supplier operations.
Chris Miller, founder and CEO of White Rabbit Fund, said: “Island Poke possesses a robust underlying business, with its core sites generating profits. However, the company has been hindered by substantial COVID-19-related debts, inflation, and exceptionally inclement weather at the beginning of 2024.
“The acquisition will empower us to fortify the business, safeguard 104 jobs, and continue operations with our suppliers.”
Launched in 2016, White Rabbit Fund has partnered with early-stage chefs and restaurants to launch and grow their business. It has also helped to develop hospitality concepts across Oxford, Cambridge, St Andrews and Northern Ireland.