One of Guernsey’s best-known hospitality groups has expanded its footprint across the Channel Islands after acquiring a major Jersey restaurant business.
Channel Island Hospitality Ltd – the Guernsey-based company behind Randalls – has purchased JPRestaurants, the Jersey group that operates Banjo, Oyster Box and Jersey Crab Shack.
The deal marks a significant moment for inter-island hospitality, bringing together two long-established Channel Islands food businesses under shared ownership while maintaining separate identities on each island.
Channel Island Hospitality Ltd is owned by Ravenscroft Capital, whose head of corporate finance, Brian O’Mahoney, said the group was focused on backing strong local brands rather than reshaping them.
“We see enormous potential”
“JPRestaurants is a highly respected Jersey business with a strong identity and deep roots in the local community,” he commented.
“Our approach is to invest in great brands and talented teams, not to dilute what already works.
“We see enormous potential in Banjo, Oyster Box and Jersey Crab Shack, and we’re excited to support the business with investment, strategic insight and long-term commitment, while preserving the individuality that makes each venue special.”
JPRestaurants traces its origins back to 1946, when it began as a small family-owned studio pottery before evolving into one of Jersey’s most recognisable restaurant groups. It previously also operated the Café Ubé brand.
Milestone approaching
JPRestaurants managing director Robert Jones said the change in ownership would allow the Jersey venues to continue investing and evolving, while keeping their character intact.
He said the partnership came at a milestone moment for the business, which will mark 80 years of trading in 2027, and described the move as an opportunity to build on a long local legacy.
Mr Jones will remain closely involved in the business as a significant shareholder, with day-to-day operations continuing as normal.