Lorne Hotel sells to Sydney’s Merivale hospitality group
The Lorne Hotel has sold for $38m to Sydney’s Merivale hospitality group.
The iconic Lorne Hotel has been acquired by hospitality heavyweight Merivale in a landmark transaction for the Great Ocean Road hub.
Merivale chief executive Justin Hemmes announced on Wednesday afternoon his group would take over the keys to the historic 145-year-old pub, operated by John and Paul Upham for the past 11 years.
It is understood the deal was worth $38m.
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Justin Hemmes. Picture: Darren Leigh Roberts
Merivale also bought Tomasetti House in Flinders Lane earlier this year. Picture: Alan Barber
Mr Hemmes’ Sydney-based Merivale announced earlier this month it was breaking into Melbourne’s hospitality scene following the purchase of Tomasetti House in Flinders Lane.
The company already owns and runs a number of popular Sydney eateries including Mr Wong, Felix, Bert’s Bar & Brasserie, and the Coogee Pavilion.
Settlement for Tomasetti House and The Lorne Hotel is expected to take place later this year.
The Lorne Pub has been a popular drinking hole for the past 145 years.
Mr Hemmes said the Lorne pub, perched at 176 Mountjoy Parade on the main drag, was an “iconic” venue and would trade as normal over the summer.
“It has been an absolute pleasure getting to know John and Paul Upham, who have been the proud custodians of the venue for the last 11 years; we feel honoured to continue their legacy and help usher the pub into the next phase of its incredible 145-year history,” Mr Hemmes said.
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