Preston burger and cocktail bar All Hopes, No Promises put up for sale as owners seek move abroad

One of Preston’s most popular eateries is being put up for sale.

City burger and cocktail bar All Hopes, No Promises announced the news on its Facebook page last night, saying both its Preston and Lancaster restaurants were hitting the market.

Owner Michael Evans, 39, opened the business in 2020 when it was originally known as Smashed and located in the Miller Arcade. In 2024, after facing legal pressure from US chain Smashburger, Michael renamed the restaurant All Hopes, No Promises and moved to Charnley Street, off Fishergate.

The business has been vocal on its social media about its struggles to turn a profit as a food business in the city, and has often railed against the nation’s political leadership for not doing enough to support independent businesses.

Three weeks ago, they said: “Since Labour came into power, businesses like ours have been hit hard. National Insurance contributions have increased, business rates continue to rise, and inflation has sent stock costs through the roof.

“As a result, we’ve had to cut staff hours and are now around £1,000 a week worse off as a business. We’re still fighting to keep our Preston store open, but it’s becoming increasingly difficult.

“Countless businesses across our industry are facing the same struggles we are. This isn’t about politics for us—it’s about survival. Independent businesses up and down the country are being squeezed from every direction, and many are wondering how much longer they can keep going.”

But sharing news of the sale on Facebook, Michael - who runs the restaurant with his partner, Allisha, 37 - said the decision to sell was due to the couple’s desire to move abroad, and not because of any business struggles.

They said both the Preston and Lancaster branches of All Hopes, No Promises will remain open until a new buyer is confirmed, and the move will not result in any job losses.

The burger bar is known for staging publicity stunts, but Michael and Allisha have assured customers the sale is no hoax. The pair said they are seeking to move abroad “to fulfil a long standing dream of opening a business overseas.”

Sharing the news on Facebook, they said: “An exciting opportunity to purchase two well established hospitality businesses in Preston and Lancaster. Both premises are leasehold with excellent rental terms for high street city locations.

“Genuine reason for sale.

“After many years in the hospitality industry, we’ve decided it’s time for a new chapter. With our children now grown up and nearly finishing school. We are looking to fulfil a long standing dream of moving abroad and opening new businesses overseas.

“Like many independents, we’ve faced the challenges of competing with large corporate chains, but we’ve worked hard, stayed committed, and built two successful businesses that we’re incredibly proud of.

“However it has paid off and we have been successful.

“We’re looking for serious, genuine buyers only. Please, no time wasters or dreamers.

“If you’d like more information, feel free to get in touch.

“THIS DOES NOT MEAN WE ARE CLOSING...

“Don't be sad , you've still got us.

“Our life savings are in the business we will continue with a good trade, new menus, more banter.

“PS all of our amazing staff will not lose jobs!

“If you are a hater you didn't win , we did , you said we would last 6 months!

“To the lovers , thank you for supporting our small family dreams.”