Popworld, a popular nightclub chain with 34 locations across the UK, has announced the closure of its Bournemouth venue, marking the third closure within a few weeks. The decision comes as its owner, Stonegate, embarks on a massive £1 billion sale of over 1,000 pubs and bars in Britain as a strategy to tackle its mounting debt issues. The Bournemouth venue will shut down on March 15, just two years after its opening in the city.

This closure follows another recent shutdown in Nuneaton, Warwickshire, which closed just last week after operating for eight years. Furthermore, last year saw Popworld divesting several of its venues in Portsmouth, Bristol, Watford, and Chelmsford, though some of those locations have since reopened under new management and branding. The trend reflects the challenging landscape for nightlife venues across the UK, which have been heavily impacted by economic pressures and changing consumer habits.

With Popworld known for its vibrant atmosphere fueled by 1990s and 2000s 'cheesy pop' music, these closures indicate not just a restructuring of the chain but also a broader struggle within the hospitality sector. As Stonegate continues its efforts to stabilize financially, the future of the Popworld brand in its current form may face further challenges depending on market conditions and consumer demand.