Rhythm & Booze founder Martin Swaine has joined rival group Bargain Booze as a super-franchisee and consultant.

Swaine built Rhythm & Booze into a 70-strong chain across Yorkshire, Humberside, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, but the company fell into administration in March and was bought by Costcutter owner Bibby.

At Bargain Booze Swaine will support the company’s expansion and trial new retail formats and innovations.

“Few people have built a sizeable off-licence and convenience business from scratch like Martin, so it’s a major coup that he’s joined Bargain Booze,” said Keith Webb, acting MD of Bargain Booze.