To ensure growth over the long-term, EAT is looking for ways to mitigate against challenges.

According to a statement attributable to an EAT spokesperson, "EAT is considering various options regarding its business but absolutely no decisions have been taken."

EAT has been growing – the company’s financial accounts for the year to 30 June 2017 show like-for-like sales grew 5% and EBITDA grew 19% to £4.3m over FY 2017 vs FY 2016.

However, in common with many other high-street operators, EAT is having to cope with a myriad of challenges, including higher input and staff costs, higher rents and increased business rates.