AllBright, the women-only members’ club housed in a five-storey Mayfair townhouse, has entered administration. Members received an email last week announcing the closure of the club’s Maddox Street location, while others were informed this week.

Launched on International Women’s Day 2018, AllBright aimed to provide a career-focused network for women, offering connections through both digital and physical spaces. Co-founded by Anna Jones, CEO of Telegraph Media Group, and Debbie Wosskow, co-chair of the Invest in Women Taskforce, the club was named after former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright and her famous remark: “There’s a special place in hell for women who don’t help each other.”

Despite weathering the COVID-19 pandemic and shifts in working habits, AllBright struggled to maintain momentum. Its closure comes at a time when private members’ clubs are thriving, with the sector ranked as one of the fastest-growing in real estate, according to Knight Frank.

Memberships started at £1,950 per year for individuals and £1,500 for corporate access, offering exclusive spaces, networking events, and professional development programs. The Mayfair townhouse boasted two restaurants, a bar, a hair salon, and a rooftop terrace, yet reports suggest these social and dining areas were underutilized.

The company’s latest accounts are overdue, but in its last available filing (year ending March 2022), AllBright reported a pre-tax loss of £6.2 million. This marks the second administration in two years, following Cain International’s 2022 pre-pack deal that wiped out debts and reinvested in the business.

Co-founders Jones and Wosskow exited as directors in February 2023, with Viviane Paxinos stepping in as CEO the previous year. While neither has commented publicly, both expressed sadness on social media, emphasizing the impact AllBright had in fostering connections among women.

In a surprise move, members were offered access to a “dedicated lounge” at Old Session House in Farringdon, raising questions about what aspects of the brand will continue. Meanwhile, AllBright’s website and social media channels remain silent on the administration.

This downfall contrasts sharply with the club’s early success. In 2019, AllBright secured £13 million in funding, valuing the business at £100 million. High-profile members included tech entrepreneur Martha Lane-Fox, actors Naomie Harris and Ruth Wilson, and former Asda CEO Allan Leighton, who joined as chairman in 2018.

AllBright’s collapse serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing women-focused business networks. While the demand for events, mentorship, and learning programs remains high, its brick-and-mortar presence could not withstand economic pressures. The future of AllBright’s digital and event operations remains uncertain, leaving members wondering what’s next for the once-thriving community.