RONAN RYAN OF TOWN BAR & GRILL WRITES FOR US
Wednesday 06 January 2010
'It was the best of times and it was the...
2009 was the worst imaginable year for me personally, actually the first nine months were. The last quarter was in fact probably the most fulfilling since I began my time in business.
When I closed the restaurant in Sandyford (December 2008) I was prepared for a backlash from the Banks but, for three months we heard nothing; Little did I know I was in the eye of the Hurricane.
All hell broke loose. The Revenue, the Banks, all demanded their pound of flesh ‘yesterday’. Suppliers got nervous and I got no sleep. I went from investor to investor looking for help. Finally one came on board and took control of “Town”.
They put the company into Examinership (which is the only way they could protect their investment apparently) A few suppliers thought I was being deceitful and took their grievance public via the Joe Duffy Show. I couldn’t defend myself for legal reasons and listened for 45minutes as my reputation was thrashed.
We emerged from the process battered and bruised but most suppliers knew me and knew if we stayed going they could recoup some of their losses (which has since happened).
I received over 200 emails and letters supporting me and my business.
A number of people came up to me in the restaurant stating that they thought I was treated unfairly and they wanted to show support by dining in “Town” for the first time!
October was busy, November incredibly busy, and December was as busy as 2006 (although turnover is lower as no one is ordering Champagne to start, or Armagnac to finish!)
I didn't open "South" with the idea of ripping off suppliers and I am truly sorry anyone lost a penny on the venture.
They say what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. I subscribe fully to that. I have never been a focused as I am now.
Ronan Ryan
Manager of Town Bar & Grill