AUSTRALIAN
AUSTRALIA’S NATIONAL HOTEL INDUSTRY MAGAZINE
Vol. 37 No. 1- February 2020
THE 2020 ANNUAL INDUSTRY LEADERS FORUM
IN THIS ISSUE: 2019 ROUND-UP | INDUSTRY INSIGHTS | 2020 PREDICTIONS
WELCOME TO
2020 CRICKET
Twenty20 cricket is fittingly to the fore on FOX CRICKET in 2020, with both the Men’s and Women’s ICC T20 World Cups plus every KFC Big Bash League match LIVE in HD. Following a busy end to this Summer, perennial rivals India are here next Summer for four Domain Test Series matches plus multiple short-form encounters.
2020 HIGHLIGHTS ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2020 ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2020 Domain Test Series v NZ Domain Test Series v India Gillette ODI Series v NZ KFC BBL Rebel Women’s BBL
Every match LIVE in HD LIVE in HD coverage Every Test LIVE in HD Every Test LIVE in HD Every match LIVE in HD Every match LIVE in HD LIVE in HD coverage
NRL
Every round is on us this year with FOX LEAGUE’s unrivalled LIVE in HD coverage of the 2020 NRL Telstra Premiership. Every game of every round is LIVE in HD plus FOX LEAGUE’S coverage also includes every NRL Finals Series game LIVE before the Grand Final. Following the NRL Nines in February, the NRL season gets underway on Thursday, 12th March and plays out until early October.
2020 HIGHLIGHTS Telstra Premiership Every match of every round LIVE in HD NRL Nines LIVE in HD QLD Cup LIVE in HD coverage NSW Cup LIVE in HD coverage English Super League LIVE in HD coverage
Get the live sport your customers love. Join Foxtel Business today and let the crowds roll in. 1
FOXTEL JANUARY 2020
AFL
Your home for footy in 2020 is FOX FOOTY with every match of every round of the 2020 Toyota AFL Premiership Season LIVE in HD. FOX FOOTY also delivers every AFL Finals Series match LIVE before the Grand Final. Ahead of the new season beginning, FOX FOOTY brings you the NAB AFL Women’s Season plus the Marsh Community Series pre-season tournament LIVE.
2020 HIGHLIGHTS Toyota Premiership Every match of every round LIVE in HD NAB AFLW Competition Every match of every round LIVE in HD Marsh Community Series Every match LIVE in HD
US SPORT
ESPN is the undisputed home for LIVE US sport at lunchtime in 2020 with epic coverage of the NBA, NFL, NHL and MLB seasons. Fans can also catch LIVE UFC on ESPN at no extra charge as part of your subscription, including Pay-Per-View Prelims and entire Fight Night cards.
2020 HIGHLIGHTS NFL NBA MLB NHL UFC
Average 5 LIVE games each week Average 7 LIVE games each week Average 4 LIVE games each week Up to 5 LIVE games each week Every Fight Night & Prelim LIVE
Call 1300 136 669 or email foxtel.business@foxtel.com.au FOXTEL JANUARY 2020
2
“I love the Summit and have always found I get plenty out of it when I attend.” Matthew Coorey, QHA 2019 Publican of the Year
Join hundreds of your peers in hearing some of the industry’s leading stakeholders discuss the issues that are pertinent to pub operations right now. Topics discussed during the program will include: • The renewed importance of an entertainment offering in attracting people out of their homes; • How to use market evidence when making decisions about your asset; • How F&B propositions are evolving in the face of consumption changes towards a healthier lifestyle; • Accruing and utilising data in positioning your venue to remain competitive in its local area. • Key considerations for pub bottleshops. • Identifying and reacting to new consumer behaviour. • Creating a corporate sustainability plan.
Speakers at the Summit include: • Marcello Colosimo, Momento Hospitalty • Kerri Glasscock, Sydney Fringe Festival/Night Time Industries Association • Rose Kentish, Sparkke at the Whitmore • John Musca, JLL Hotels & Hospitality • Stevan Premutico, me&u • Matt Rule, Music + Booze Co • Janenne Willis, Hotel Esplanade With many more to be announced!
Follow #PubLeaders for the latest
PUB LEADERS SUMMIT RETURNS TO SYDNEY! SUMMIT 2020
Monday 30 March Doltone House Darling Island, Pyrmont
TICKETS ON SALE NOW! www.publeaders.com.au
THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS PLATINUM SPONSOR
GOLD SPONSORS
SILVER SPONSOR
CONTENTS & ED’S NOTE
WE ENCOURAGE RESPONSIBLE DRINKING Get the facts DrinkWise.org.au
Contents
P30
SPECIAL FEATURES
27 Solotel
8 News: Take a look back at the biggest
28
headlines of 2019. 30 2020 Predictions: What do industry
Sparkke at the Whitmore
SUPPLIERS
leaders think will be the big focuses of
15
Foxtel Business
the next 12 months?
16
Gaming Technologies Association
18 Hostplus
OPERATORS
20
Intrust Super
12
Comiskey Group
22
JLL Hotels & Hospitality
14
Fitzgibbons Group
24
LRS Australia
19
Hunt Hospitality
26
Paul Kelly Design
23
The Lincoln
challenges of 2019, and discuss what we
it’s been a tough start
can look forward to in 2020. I am continually
to the year, as they
inspired by the operators who are evolving to
and their communities
meet consumer trends, and have found their
are contending with
own niche within the sector. Some of those operators will be discussing their insights at the 2020 Pub Leaders
of the country’s regional areas. At the time of
Summit, which returns to Sydney on Monday
publishing, the situation is still unfolding, so we
30 March. This year’s Summit is shaping up to
will bring you coverage of the operators who
be another invaluable asset for operators so
have been affected, in the next issue. However,
find out more at www.publeaders.com.au
I am encouraged by the way the industry has
Cheers,
rallied around its colleagues, with everyone doing their part to support those in need. On a more positive note, we once more present our Annual Industry Leaders Forum, the first edition of the year in which leading hoteliers and industry partners from across the country look back at the triumphs and
6 | Australian Hotelier
EDITOR: Vanessa Cavasinni vcavasinni@intermedia.com.au NATIONAL SALES MANAGER: Jason Wild Tel: 02 8586 6213 jwild@intermedia.com.au GENERAL MANAGER SALES – LIQUOR & HOSPITALITY GROUP: Shane T. Williams GROUP ART DIRECTOR – LIQUOR AND HOSPITALITY: Kea Thorburn kthorburn@intermedia.com.au
SUBSCRIPTION RATES
For many publicans,
that are ravaging much
PUBLISHER: Paul Wootton
PRODUCTION MANAGER: Jacqui Cooper jacqui@intermedia.com.au
Editor’s note unprecedented bushfires
PUBLISHED BY: Food and Beverage Media Pty Ltd 41 Bridge Road GLEBE NSW Australia 2037 Tel: 02 9660 2113 Fax: 02 9660 4419
Vanessa Cavasinni P: 02 8586 6201 E: vcavasinni@intermedia.com.au
1yr (11 issues) for $95.00 (inc GST) 2yrs (22 issues) for $152.00 (inc GST) – Saving 20% 3yrs (33 issues) for $199.00 (inc GST) – Saving 30% To subscribe and to view other overseas rates visit www.intermedia.com.au or Call: 1800 651 422 (Mon – Fri 8:30-5pm AEST) Email: subscriptions@intermedia.com.au DISCLAIMER: This publication is published by Food and Beverage Media Pty Ltd (the “Publisher”). Materials in this publication have been created by a variety of different entities and, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher accepts no liability for materials created by others. All materials should be considered protected by Australian and international intellectual property laws. Unless you are authorised by law or the copyright owner to do so, you may not copy any of the materials. The mention of a product or service, person or company in this publication does not indicate the Publisher’s endorsement. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Publisher, its agents, company officers or employees. Any use of the information contained in this publication is at the sole risk of the person using that information. The user should make independent enquiries as to the accuracy of the information before relying on that information. All express or implied terms, conditions, warranties, statements, assurances and representations in relation to the Publisher, its publications and its services are expressly excluded save for those conditions and warranties which must be implied under the laws of any State of Australia or the provisions of Division 2 of Part V of the Trade Practices Act 1974 and any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof. To the extent permitted by law, the Publisher will not be liable for any damages including special, exemplary, punitive or consequential damages (including but not limited to economic loss or loss of profit or revenue or loss of opportunity) or indirect loss or damage of any kind arising in contract, tort or otherwise, even if advised of the possibility of such loss of profits or damages. While we use our best endeavours to ensure accuracy of the materials we create, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher excludes all liability for loss resulting from any inaccuracies or false or misleading statements that may appear in this publication. Copyright © 2020 - Food and Beverage Media Pty Ltd
‣ Gaming ‣ Accommodation ‣ Draught Products
Average Total Distribution: 4,743 AMAA/CAB Yearly Audit Period ending 31 March 2019.
To be serviced by the fund that caters to your needs – call 132 467 or visit intrust.com.au today!
This information does not take into account your personal financial position or needs. Please consider the Intrust Super product disclosure statement appropriate to you. The Trustee of Intrust Super is IS Industry Fund Pty Ltd | MySuper Unique Identifier: 65704511371601 | ABN: 45 010 814 623 | AFSL No: 238051 | RSE Licence No: L0001298 | Intrust Super ABN 65 704 511 371 | SPIN: HPP0100AU | RSE Registration No: R1004397
NEWS ROUND-UP
2019’s biggest headlines In a year full of frenetic market activity, legal and compliance issues, and dynamic promotional campaigns, these were the news pieces that grabbed your attention. Merivale facing underpayments class action Canberra-based law firm, Adero, has filed a class action against Merivale in Federal Court, alleging that the hospitality group has underpaid its staff through penalty rates and other benefits. Adero has alleged that the underpayments were caused by the use of an invalid WorkChoices agreement for a decade. The law firm has estimated that past and present staff who are eligible could claim up to $129 million in back payment. Based on a decision from the Fair Work Commission, Merivale implemented a new award agreement from 4 March 2019. In regards to previous payments, a spokesperson for the group said it would “vigorously defend” any legal claims lodged against it.
Laundy launches The Marsden Brewhouse Arthur Laundy’s huge new venue in Sydney’s north-west, The Marsden Hotel and Brewhouse, opened on 2 April 2019. The hotel is believed to be the largest hotel and brewery in western Sydney, costing a reported $45m and has taken over a year in planning and construction. The venue includes 13 sports screens plus a further two big screens – one on the outdoor terrace and another within the dedicated indoor sports bar. There’s also an outdoor sports bar. The venue joined the Laundy Hotels’ existing group of roughly 30 hotels, pubs, bars and hospitality venues across Sydney. “We believe this hotel will be a destination hotel where people from all over Sydney will travel to it,” said Arthur Laundy, when
of the CBD. Its brewery component is
of Arthur Laundy’s six decades of
revealing the plans in August 2018.
expected to brew up to one million litres
hotel ownership. Arthur’s vision for the
of beer and cider per year.
Marsden was to build a hotel that caters to
The Marsden Hotel and Brewhouse – which features an in-house craft beer
The Marsden Hotel and Brewhouse’s
everyone in the community with good and
production facility – is located within the
general manager, Wayne MacDonald, told
old fashioned hospitality principles as its
$2bn Sydney Business Park. Marsden
Australian Hotelier:
core. Good food and good people backed
Park is about 45 minutes’ drive north-west
8 | Australian Hotelier
“The Marsden Hotel is the culmination
by excellent service.”
The Regatta Hotel in Brisbane was one of the venues sold to AVC
NEWS ROUND-UP
Iris Capital nabs Hotel Steyne John Singleton and business partners sell Manly’s Hotel Steyne to Iris Capital for $60m-plus. The iconic Hotel Steyne on Sydney’s northern beaches was purchased in 2010 by a group of investors including Singleton, Arthur Laundy, Mark Carnegie and Robert Whyte. The group paid roughly $27m back then, when they bought it off Robert McHugh. “We are delighted to have acquired what is, on any fair test, Australia’s leading hotel property in the form of Manly’s iconic Hotel Steyne,” said Iris Capital founder Sam Arnaout. “This positions our company, Iris Capital, as a genuine hospitality leader in this part of the world, and complements our macro coastal investment strategy in respect of similar landmark projects such as Newcastle’s $700m East End development.” The transaction of the iconic hotel was overseen by HTL Property’s Andrew Jolliffe and Daniel Dragicevich.
Coles sells pubs and pokies to AVC In the first quarter of 2019, Coles announced that it had sold 87 hotels to Australian Venue Co (AVC) for $200m in a joint venture, but retains its Queensland liquor stores. Under the complex joint venture, AVC took on the operations of Coles’ Spirit Hotels in Queensland, retaining all profits from those hotel operations. In return, Coles will retain and manage day-to-day operations of 243 retail liquor stores in Queensland and 10 retail stores attached to Spirit Hotels’ WA and SA operations. These liquor stores include the established brands Liquorland, First Choice, First Choice Liquor Market and Vintage Cellars. Coles will retain all profits from those retail liquor operations. Announcing the joint venture company, Queensland Venue Co, to the Australian Stock Exchange, Coles Group said the structure “will allow both parties to focus on their core competencies, whilst having joint oversight over the entire operation.” The transaction was finalised at the end of the 2019 financial year.
THE DEAL IN NUMBERS • AVC pays $200m to Coles for the operation and profits of Spirit Hotels. • 87 hotels (76 in Queensland, the rest in SA and WA)
Keep up with the latest industry news!
• Circa 3000 EGMs
Subscribe now to our fortnightly newsletter:
• Coles will retain the operations and profits of 243
https://www.theshout.com.au/subscribe-
• The Spirit Hotels portfolio consists of:
retail liquor outlets.
australian-hotelier/
February 2020 | 9
NEWS ROUND-UP
Gaming pub sale frenzy October and November were also a boom period for western Sydney gaming pub sales, with some of the most long-held gaming assets being bought and sold in a flurry. Merivale kicked off the movement in gaming assets, purchasing the Allawah Hotel off White & Partners for $34 million. The De Angelis family went on a buying spree, purchasing both the Raby Tavern and Shopping Centre and the Ingleburn Hotel – for $35m and $29.25m, respectively – within a two week period. Iris Capital purchased the Sportsmans Hotel, in Blacktown for $23.4 million off the Paul Irvin Hotel Group. It was the second gaming pub buy for the group this year, after purchasing the Cambridge Tavern in Fairfield in June, for $56 million – making it the biggest gaming pub sale for 2019. Redcape also got in on the action, selling the St George Hotel in Belmore for $47.1 million, while the the nearby Belmore Hotel was bought for roughly $50 million by former Sydney Lord Mayor Nelson Meers AO. The sale of so many of these types of assets in quick succession has never been seen before, as large gaming assets are generally long-term investments that are rarely placed on the market.
Byron’s Beach Hotel sets new pub sale record The record for the biggest pub transaction in Australia has been smashed by Moelis Australia, after it entered into an exclusivity agreement to buy the Beach Hotel in Bryon Bay. The deal, which was brokered by JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group’s John Musca, Tom Gibson and Tom Gleeson, puts the acquisition price just above $100m. “The Beach Hotel Byron Bay is an iconic Australian establishment located on irreplaceable real estate,” stated Redcape CEO, Dan Brady. “The acquisition of both freehold and operating interests will enable the required capital investment to further enhance what has made the hotel iconic – that is, a great community gathering place with a fun, sociable, friendly and safe hospitality offering delivered by an engaged and passionate team of local hospitality professionals.” The deal includes both the leasehold and freehold for the
Massive lockout win for Sydney
Beach Hotel, which is the first time since 2007 those two
In a win for Sydney’s nightlife and the hospitality industry,
assets have come under common ownership. The terms of
Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced in late November that
the sale include a long-term moratorium on poker machines
the majority of Sydney’s lockout laws will be wound back,
at the venue, after previous owner Impact Investment Group,
commencing Tuesday 14 January 2020.
removed them at the behest of the local community.
As per the Joint Select Committee’s recommendations, changes occurred in the Sydney CBD Precinct mid-January including the removal of 1.30am last entry for all venues in the Precinct, and the removal of restrictions on shots and cocktails after midnight. ‘Last drinks’ were extended by 30 minutes to 3:30am, and bottle shop trading hours across NSW were extended to midnight throughout the week (except for 11pm closing on Sundays). The restrictions will however remain in the Kings Cross precinct, with a review of the situation slated for 2020. The changes were widely lauded by the industry and community.
10 | Australian Hotelier
For the nation’s best with big
ideas
Hoteliers
Railway Hotel, Yeppoon
SOLD SOLD
Subiaco Hotel, Subiaco
Beach Hotel, Byron Bay
SOLD SOLD Hotel Victor, Victor Harbor
The JLL Pubs Team
SOLD
Craig’s Royal Hotel, Ballarat
delivers beyond borders,
offering national market reach through local market leaders. For the right advice and best
results, contact us today.
NATIONAL John Musca +61 424 257 004 john.musca@ap.jll.com
NEW SOUTH WALES Nick Butler +61 458 672 643 nick.butler@ap.jll.com
VIC, SA, TAS Will Connolly +61 432 116 287 will.connolly@ap.jll.com
WESTERN AUSTRALIA Sean Flynn +61 412 779 987 sean.flynn@ap.jll.com
QUEENSLAND Tom Gleeson +61 449 289 845 tom.gleeson@ap.jll.com
The Sandstone Point Holiday Resort
COMISKEY GROUP
OPERATOR
Location, location, location
Rob Comiskey Director Comiskey Group
Comiskey Group has always catered their venue offerings to the surrounding area, and 2019 saw that business strategy pay off big time. AFTER A couple of very busy years of
Their guidance has been very beneficial
strategically located venues in the greater
expansion and reinvention, you would
considering this project was our first
Brisbane area.
understand if Comiskey Group spent
endeavour into the holiday park industry.”
“Samford was always an appealing area
2019 taking a breath. Instead, it forged
for us – it maintains a small-town country
ahead with renovations, a new business
feel and is still within close proximity to
partnership and a new venue.
BIG4 PARTNERSHIP Comiskey Group launched the Sandstone Point Holiday Resort in partnership with BIG4 Holidays Parks at the end of 2018, and the venture has proven to a big
In less than a year of operation we became the highest-selling BIG4 park in Australia.
success for both parties. “In less than a year of operation we
Brisbane. It’s a beautiful destination for families just like our other venue on the water, Sandstone Point Hotel. Sandstone Point is a nice area for a sea change and Samford makes for a nice tree change,” says Comiskey. “We believe its location nicely ties back to our current portfolio and is strategically a fit for us taking into account scale and
became the highest selling BIG4 park in
BUYS AND RENOS
Australia, which was definitely a major win
The group’s other major venue, Eatons
Samford Hotel has immense potential
for the group, but our biggest achievement
Hill Hotel, wasn’t left idle either, with
being in the heart of the town centre.”
has been the overwhelmingly positive
renovations undertaken at the award-
feedback we have had from our guests,”
winning pub. A significant amount of
NO SLOWING DOWN
states director Rob Comiskey.
capex was put into the renovation of the
Comiskey Group will remain active in 2020,
“We put a lot of thought and hard
operation. We are very excited because
hotel’s gaming room, bistro, beer garden
starting with a renovation of the Samford
work into designing a resort which caters
and rooftop bar, with the nightclub and
Hotel, including a new menu for the venue
to every type of stay with world class
ballroom still to be completed.
that supports local farms and produce.
facilities for both children and adults so it
“It is important that we continue to
has been rewarding to see such success.”
invest and reinvent ourselves to improve
continue, with approvals underway for a
our customer experience as best we can,
brand new venue in Noosa, and plans to
BIG4 has helped the group learn a lot
incorporating new technology and ideas to
double the size of the BIG4 Sandstone
about the holiday-park business.
maintain our high standards and increase
Point Holiday Resort with additional
our wow-factor.”
accommodation and new, unique facilities
Comiskey says that partnering with
“Partnering with BIG4 Holiday Parks was a great decision for us. BIG4 have
In another significant spend for
helped with exposure on a national
the year, Comiskey Group added the
scale and have provided guidance on
Samford Hotel to its portfolio, making
all things from operations to marketing.
it an inland complement to the group’s
12 | Australian Hotelier
Expansion of the group will also
that Comiskey promises will be an incredible addition to the resort. “We look forward to seeing what 2020 brings.”
From one top performer to another.
You pride yourself on performing at your very best. And with an impressive long-term investment history, Hostplus knows a thing or two about performance, too. According to SuperRatings, our default Balanced investment option ranked highest, or second highest over 20, 15, 10, 7, 5 and 3 years to 30 June 2019.* Looking for a super fund that works as hard as you do? Visit hostplus.com.au
Hostplus. We go with you. *Number one Fund over 7 years (11.13% p.a.) (48 funds), 5 years (9.65% p.a.) (48 funds) and 3 years (10.80% p.a.) (48 funds), and number two Fund over 20 years (8.10% p.a.) (21 funds), 15 years (8.16% p.a.) (29 funds) and 10 years (9.67% p.a.) (45 funds) – SuperRatings Fund Crediting Rate Survey, June 2019. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Consider the Host-Plus PDS and your objectives, financial situation and needs, which are not accounted for in this information before making an investment decision. Host-Plus Pty Ltd ABN 79 008 634 704, AFSL 244392, as trustee for the Hostplus Superannuation Fund ABN 68 657 495 890 (the Fund) INH1192 1219
The Glen Hotel
FITZGIBBONS GROUP
OPERATOR
All in the family
Brian Fitzgibbons Director Fitzgibbons Group
A strong focus on the customer experience has led Fitzgibbons Group to have an award-winning year. 2019 STARTED with a change for Fitzgibbons Group. After listening to its customers, it decided to restructure the food and dining offering of The Glen Hotel. For Brian Fitzgibbons, it was soon clear they’d made a good choice. “This redevelopment subsequently led to us winning the title of ‘Best Casual
“Development, no matter how small
Development, no matter how small or big, reminds our team and customers that the hotel is loved.
Awards in November, so a great change This is just one of the awards that
that the hotel is loved. Our team really take pride in what we have all created, and our customers feel it from the moment they walk through the door,” Fitzgibbons said.
ONWARDS AND UPWARDS
Dining Venue’ in Queensland at the QHA we made indeed!” Fitzgibbons said.
or big, reminds our team and customers
There have been some changes a strength, Fitzgibbons said he and his
in legislation and regulation for
wife and kids are at the hotel every day,
Queensland’s industry recently, and
Fitzgibbons Group venues won over the
building relationships with the team,
Fitzgibbons embraces them as positive
course of 2019. The Osbourne Hotel in
suppliers and customers.
signs of what’s to come.
Fortitude Valley was named ‘Best Place
“We have built a little community where
A relaxation of ID scanner regulation is
for After Work Drinks’ by The Courier
everyone is welcomed and there is a sense
one area that Fitzgibbons is most satisfied
Mail, and then the Glen Hotel took out
of belonging,” Fitzgibbons explained.
with, as the Government acknowledges
the big one – Queensland’s Hotel of the Year. Reflecting on the accolades, Fitzgibbons
As the family operate the venue in this way, they’re able to action any issues
the needs of the industry. “The decision reflects needs that
quickly, maintaining consistency at the core
were crucial for the industry to survive
said: “We are still buzzing from this! 2019
of the business. Customers can count on
and thrive. The extra costs hoteliers
was a great one, we have reaped the
them for an ice cold beer, juicy steak and a
incurred by ID scanning every night of
rewards of 2018’s work.”
friendly smile, so they keep coming back.
the week, was simply unnecessary,”
WHAT IT TAKES TO BE QUEENSLAND’S BEST
popular is by keeping it simple and not necessarily putting on a range of special
focus more of our time and resources on
Fitzgibbons said there are four things
events or promotions. As Fitzgibbons
the customers experience inside the hotel,
that set the Glen Hotel apart and which
said, “being ourselves is enough.”
rather than outside of it.”
contributed to its success at the 2019 QHA
Another way the Glen Hotel stays
The final piece of the puzzle is to
Fitzgibbons said. “For our hotels it means we can now
And while the group hasn’t announced
awards: family ownership, consistency,
embrace change, and not get stuck in
any specific plans for 2020 yet,
simplicity and embracing change.
the past. It certainly worked for the
Fitzgibbons said to stay tuned, exciting
Fitzgibbons Group in this case.
things are coming.
In terms of how family ownership is
14 | Australian Hotelier
The Rugby World Cup at Crows Nest Hotel
SUPPLIER
FOXTEL BUSINESS
Seat-filling action
Greg Bohlsen
National Manager, Licensed Venues Foxtel Business
With access to more events than ever before, Foxtel Business is giving pubs even more options when it comes to attracting sport fans. IN 2019, not only did Foxtel Business
“With some huge local and international
evolving and the volume of information
allow its venue partners to broadcast
events in 2019, sports fans were flocking
is immense, Foxtel provides a wide
every game of all the major Australian
to venues to see the biggest stars on
range of customer tools to help
codes (NRL, AFL, A-League and cricket),
show. Barry Hall v Paul Gallen attracted
customers plan effectively.”
it also brought two of the biggest
over 20 per cent of our customer base,
international events into venues all
which was a tremendous result for a local
4K THE FUTURE
over the country, with every game of
Australian event,” says Bohlsen.
For the first time ever, Foxtel Business
the ICC Cricket World Cup and Rugby
“With a new Australian UFC champion
selected 14 venues across the country to
World Cup broadcast live. This equated
in Alex Volkanovksi and names like Conor
showcase the brilliance of live sport in 4K
to an extra 96 live sporting matches
McGregor returning to the UFC, it’s only
Ultra HD for the duration of the Rugby
throughout the year.
looking stronger for 2020.”
World Cup. The overwhelmingly positive
“We haven’t seen a bigger year in live
To assist venues in promoting and
response from both publicans and patrons
sport on Foxtel than 2019,” states Greg
capitalising on the sporting events
alike suggests that it will be the in-venue
Bohlsen, national manager of licensed
they broadcast, Foxtel Business has 18
technology of choice in the future.
venues for Foxtel Business.
Business Development Managers around
While it has been a banner year
“We only had positive feedback from
Australia who are in regular contact with
publicans and patrons, with the majority
for Foxtel’s sports calendar, Bohlsen
their on-premise partners and provide
asking for all their TVs to be 4K compatible.
acknowledges there have been some
tools and merchandise to create the
This was a major milestone for live sport in
external challenges to contend with, as it
optimal experience for patrons.
venues as we look to bring the technology to
renews its focus on illegal streaming and
“Because live sport is constantly
pirating: “We’re making sure our loyal
the market in the near future.” In 2020, sports lovers will once more
customers aren’t impacted by those doing
be spoilt for choice through Foxtel’s
the ‘wrong thing’ and ensuring a level
broadcasting rights. Not only will the
playing field for all.”
Aussie staple codes undoubtedly do well once more, but ESPN content continues to
CROWD-PLEASERS
grow in popularity with the best live sports
Live games of all Aussie codes continue to
from the U.S. including NBA, NFL, MLB
do extremely well in terms of viewership,
and NHL aiding venues in attracting healthy
but in the last twelve months we have also seen an increase of interest in Pay-PerView UFC and boxing.
Live sports in 4K Ultra HD has proven popular in-venue
lunchtime crowds. Pay-Per-View in 2020 is also in for a knockout year with quality boxing and UFC events on the cards.
February 2020 | 15
The AGE 2019 expo floor
GAMING TECHNOLOGIES ASSOCIATION
SUPPLIER
One for the AGEs
Chris Muir
CEO Gaming Technologies Association
Having completed his first year in the job, CEO Chris Muir reflects on his first AGE and the broader gaming industry. TWELVE MONTHS into the role of
gaming has meant that dealing with vocal
will have new games, new features and
chief executive officer of the Gaming
opponents intent on curtailing gaming
the latest in screen technology, bringing a
Technologies Association (GTA), and Chris
within pubs is a continuing challenge of
wow factor,” says Muir.
Muir has come to understand the reach
the industry, made even more difficult
and dynamism of the gaming industry.
during election time.
“This is an industry which supports
“Coming out of an election in Victoria
The CEO is most excited to see the reforms in South Australia implemented, giving players in the state access to the
and works with venues, communities and
in late November 2018 and into a NSW
organisations. One of the things I take
election and then a Federal election
In terms of the expo, AGE 2020 is
pride in is advocating for an industry that
brought uncertainty to our industry.”
shaping up to be bigger and better than
supports so many jobs, and billions in wages and government revenue,” he states. “This industry is filled with amazing people who love their work and who love
However, working with the national and state branches of the AHA has been a highlight for Muir. “Our ongoing relationship with the AHA
latest in games and technology.
ever, with more stands and new features. “Every year we try to lift some part of the show to make sure it’s always the place, not just for the content. The AGE
the community they provide to locals and
National and the excellent rapport we
will always have some constants, such
visitors alike.”
have with the AHA in each state is one of
as new gaming machines, but it will also
the most valuable connections GTA has
have new features each year. The floor of
Australasian Gaming Expo (AGE),
with the venues operating our members’
the show will have a different layout, and
with Muir overseeing the event’s
products. Attending the AHA National
a fresh new carpet and expo build, but
30 anniversary last year. It was an
Awards for Excellence and presenting an
there’s no doubt the GTA members and
“undeniable highlight” of the year.
award to one of the venues recognised for
larger exhibitors will again shine with their
their hard work, was a highlight.”
colour and extravagance. Some things
A large part of GTA’s remit is the
th
“We were delighted with AGE 2019, and I was relieved that my first year in the hot seat was up to par. As always AGE
CONTINUING TO EVOLVE
2019 was the place for all things gaming
While some classic games continue to
and anything else you could need to run a
hold interest, gaming is an industry that
gaming venue.”
evolves at pace, and there is plenty to
GAMING IN PUBS Muir concedes that the divisive nature of
16 | Australian Hotelier
look forward to. “It’s great to know that every year, even every month, the GTA’s members
never change.”
AGE 2020 AGE 2020 will be held at ICC Sydney from 11-13 August.
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
61 2 9660 8299 paulkellydesign.com
Union Place Hotel
HOSTPLUS
SUPPLIER
Investing in the future
David Elia Sirromet Winery
CEO Hostplus
After a tumultuous year that rapidly presented changes to superannuation, Hostplus has emerged with a focus on venture capital and emerging technology, to the benefit of its members. CALLING 2019 a busy year for Hostplus is a
NEW INVESTMENTS
support for the club and hospitality
huge understatement. Rather, CEO David
In June 2019, Hostplus also entered
sectors, proudly served by ClubSuper and
Elia refers to it as “tremendous year.”
the Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF)
Hostplus,” stated Elia.
“In the last 12 months as we’ve
market, with its Self-Managed Invest
worked tirelessly to implement the recommendations of the Hayne Royal
(SMI) platform. “Thanks to our unique structure, the
“As Hostplus grows we are able to negotiate more compelling benefits for our members such as more competitive
Commission, we’ve continued to deliver
strength and know-how of the Hostplus
insurance arrangements and investment
outstanding long-term investment results,
investments team are now available to
options. I’m proud to say the merge was
recognised by the likes of SelectingSuper
SMSF trustees and others. Hostplus SMI
a great success and I’m confident the
and Money magazine, and opened the
enables eligible investors to pool their
decision to come together was in the best
door to a new breed of Hostplus investor
funds with Hostplus, accessing some of
interest of all parties.”
with our Self-Managed Invest platform.
our most popular, and high-performing
“Further, we’ve cemented our position as a leading investor in both venture capital and emerging technology, punching well
investments including our highly regarded
REMAINING VIGILANT
Balanced option,” stated Elia.
Looking forward to the next twelve
Early response to SMI has been
months, Elia expects that both the
above our weight to be the second largest
overwhelmingly positive with a rapid
hospitality and superannuation industries
backer in all of Australia, contributing
influx of investors taking advantage of
will experience both highs and lows, as
more than $1.3 billion to ground-breaking
the new platform. Hostplus’ leadership
trends change and new markets emerge
projects at home and abroad.”
in the space has also been recognised
at a rapid pace. Thus it’s important that operators do not get complacent.
Of course the year was not without
through innovation awards from both
its challenges, with a series of rolling
SelectingSuper and Money magazine
refinements to legislation requiring an
during their 2019 presentations.
immediate update of practices, with more to
In other big news, Hostplus also
“It’s important then that operators and staff are able to keep abreast of the developments as they come, so as to
come into effect this year. However Elia said
merged with Club Super last year. The
capitalise on any opportunities that may
the fund was fully supportive of the changes.
latter brought 22,000 members from
present. From a super standpoint we’re
“At its core, super is designed to serve
within the club sector into the newly-
aware of an increased level of scrutiny on
its members and Hostplus is absolutely
merged fund, which will see the new
small businesses everywhere with respect
committed to this cause. The legislative
venture create better synergies for all
to their SG obligations to staff. I’d like to
updates introduced in 2019 were designed
its members.
take the opportunity to remind our valued
to improve retirement outcomes for
“Post-merge we remain confident that
network of employers that Hostplus is
members of all funds and Hostplus
our combined membership will benefit
always available to offer our support and
supports the changes wholeheartedly.”
from greater scale and the ongoing
to help your business to thrive.”
18 | Australian Hotelier
Under SJH Hotel Fund ownership, the Kent Hotel will be renovated this year
A new business model
Stephen Hunt
Managing Director Hunt Hospitality and SJH Hotel Fund
As Stephen Hunt’s plans for his venues have grown, he’s turned to alternate sources of funding for his business ventures – with great results. STEPHEN HUNT has had a very busy 12 months. As managing director of his family pub group, Hunt Hospitality, the publican has steered the direction of several pubs in the Hunter/Newcastle region of New South Wales, as well as a couple further north. But it’s his SJH Hotel Fund – an unlisted managed
“Always try to over subscribe —
Always try to over subscribe
remember a deal isn’t a deal until the
— remember a deal isn’t a
take on investors you can really trust and
deal until the funds have cleared in your account.
investment scheme structured as a unit trust – that has been abuzz with activity of late. The majority of the venues that were
funds have cleared in your account. Only who have the same expected return you can give.”
ANOTHER BIG YEAR AHEAD The Kent’s revamp is not Hunt’s only
FUND OPPORTUNITIES Having sold the Kent Hotel to the fund,
plans for the year ahead, with investment slated throughout the group. “At The Duke [New Lambton] we have
under Hunt Hospitality have now been
Hunt says it changes the way the business
just finished refurbishing, so hopefully we
sold to the Fund, with Hunt still at
will operate, with new capital allowing for
will reap the rewards of last year’s hard
the operational helm. The latest fund
new possibilities.
work. At The Seabreeze [in Nelson Bay]
acquisition was the Kent Hotel in Hamilton
The hotel will undertake a major
for $24.5 million. Both hospitality vehicles
renovation this year, while still paying
weddings and the like. It’s such a beautiful
have had a year of significant business
homage to its 95-year history. The
spot so we want to capitalise on the views
development.
refurbishment will include a new rooftop
and location. At Finnians [Port Macqaurie]
bar, plus a refresh of the ground floor bar
we will look to put in a DA to expand — it
and gaming room.
is reaching maximum capacity regularly so
“Definite highlights are always when we try new product and marketing development. This year we have created a
Having raised the money for the
we are going to go hard on functions,
we need more space.”
whole new vegan menu, launched a beer
acquisition through a speedy roadshow
and also taken on a new trustee, so our
process, Hunt had plenty of advice to
corporate governance is now all sorted,”
share for operators trying to raise funds:
states Hunt.
“Give yourself plenty of time to raise
development, vertical integration and
the funds; be confident in your product
really focus heavily on investing in my
won the Rising Star award at the AHA NSW
when talking to new investors; and be
team’s education and growth. We have
awards. It’s great for a team member to be
honest about potential risks and returns
some great people in our team and they
acknowledged—we are all chuffed!”
you will offer.
are worth investing in.”
“Also one of our team [Ricci-Lee Wheeler]
Hunt is also keen to invest in his other main asset – his personnel. “I also want to look at more product
February 2020 | 19
OPERATOR
HUNT HOSPITALITY
INTRUST SUPER
SUPPLIER
A new and hopeful landscape
Brendan O’Farrell CEO Intrust Super
2019 was a year of intense examination of the superannuation industry, but Brendan O’Farrell, CEO of Intrust Super, believes it has led to positive changes that will make a real impact on the super of many Australians. The future looks bright. THE LAST twelve months have been challenging for the superannuation
$6000 from receiving default insurance.
spare change from a member’s everyday
These changes were put in place to
transactions and transfers it straight into
industry, as it faced a widely publicised
help prevent Australians’ retirement
their super account. The app was a finalist
legislative overhaul, which amounted
savings from being eroded. Premiums for
for SuperRatings’ Best New Innovation
to a stronger framework around super
insurance cover are taken from members’
award for 2020, and is already seeing
that should result in better financial
super accounts and can therefore reduce
members add an extra $15 per month to
outcomes for members.
their savings if they are not contributing to
their super on average.
For Brendan O’Farrell, CEO of Intrust
it. At the same time, the loss of insurance
Super, the investigation into the structures
could have a significant financial impact on
LOOKING AHEAD
around superannuation meant that
many of our members if they should suffer
Just as O’Farrell expects big things for the
Australians were paying attention in a
from an unexpected illness or injury.
hospitality industry in 2020 off the back
more meaningful way.
“It was critical that more education
of new campaigns to promote regional
“I was pleased to see a real increase in
and information about these insurance
pubs and relaxing of lock-out legislation
engagement with super across the country
changes was distributed to members.
in Sydney, he also expects a dynamic year
as a result. Australians are notoriously
Casual workers, who make up much of the
ahead for Intrust Super.
disengaged with their retirement savings,
hospitality industry, could be particularly
“2020 will see our friendly team
yet so many demonstrated their feelings
impacted, as they have no access to paid
members delivering the best possible
on the Commission’s revelations by
leave. Our priority was to ensure our
service and financial outcomes to
shifting their super to not-for-profit
members remained fully informed about
members and working with our business
industry funds like Intrust Super.”
what was happening to their insurance
partners to ensure their needs are met.
cover, so they could decide what is best
We’re creating new ways to engage with
for their situation,” stated O’Farrell.
our membership base and provide more
STAYING ON TOP OF THE CHANGES
With that in mind, Intrust Super has
face-to-face service at workplaces while
As per the new legislation, since 1 July
upgraded its online financial advice
2019, super members who have not
service, Super Blueprint, which has
contributed to, or rolled over funds into,
helped many of its members consider
our ‘Super Pop-up’ financial wellness
their accounts for 16 consecutive months
their insurance cover requirements in light
program, ‘Super Kiosks’, ‘Super Made
could lose any default insurance attached
of the legislative changes.
to Order’ and ‘Super Health Checks’,
to their account. Further changes will
minimising disruption to businesses.” “With many new service options like
In another development aimed to help
our business partners will have many
come into effect in April 2020, preventing
members increase the value of their super,
new choices to maximise their staff’s
anyone under the age of 25 and members
Intrust Super also introduced SuperCents
engagement with super and improve their
with an account balance of less than
in 2019, a new app which collects the
retirement outcomes.”
20 | Australian Hotelier
LRSAUSTR ALIA.COM.AU +61 2 9 955 5700
PAG I N G & C O M M U N I C AT I O N S O L U T I O N S
MANAGE WAITLISTS
A complete waitlist management solution Elevate the guest experience with that offers the flexibility customers want the durable, sleek and reliable LRS Pager. It is the only all-in-one pager with notification choices via Guest Pager or Text to Mobile. or mobile phone notification system.
TEXT4SERVICE uses an innovative technology, giving guests the power to request food and drinks, contact their server and even pay right from their phone.
LRS Gaming Pagers help increase revenue and efficiency by allowing staff members to respond quicker and escalating unanswered calls to upper management.
A table location system that identifies where guests are sitting so you can deliver food faster.
Push-button notification systems allow customers to alert staff and request immediate service.
LRS Pagers keep your staff aware and connected with each other and guests, ensuring better all-round service.
Portable and wireless Radio Kits help staff members to communicate directly on-site. Bluetooth accessories are also available.
View all paging and communication options at LRSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU
The record-setting Beach Hotel
JLL HOTELS & HOSPITALITY
SUPPLIER
A year of highlights
John Musca
National Director JLL Hotels & Hospitality
JLL Hotels & Hospitality had a massive 2019. From breaking records to selling multiple legacy hotels, the specialist real estate group has been involved in significant transactions across Australia. THE LAST twelve months have been filled with achievements for JLL Hotels & Hospitality (JLL), both internally and externally. The group took on five new staff across the country; interstate transactions were at new levels; and many transactional records were broken – most notably the sale of the Beach Hotel in Byron Bay, the first in the country to sell for in excess of $100 million.
and motivations for both acquisition and
We treat each mandate as
divestment across the country. “For example where one purchaser
important as the last which is
might be looking for a compatible stable,
why our advice is researched,
of moderate growth to bolt on to their
expectations are accurate and objectives achieved.
“We’re really proud of all our sales
low-risk income base with a history existing earnings platform seamlessly; another may be looking for more than exponential growth as a result of valueadding to a hotel and/or reconfiguration or repositioning for significant trading uplift.”
because every outcome is delivering on
nationally. With the appointments to sell
a client’s objectives through a bespoke
the Subiaco Hotel, Perth (100 years),
clients not to focus solely on transaction
strategy that we’ve designed and
the Ingleburn Hotel, Sydney (60 years),
yields, as there are many other factors
executed. And we treat each mandate as
Hotel Victor in South Australia (30 years)
that influence an acquisition’s feasibility,
important as the last which is why our
and Craig’s Ballarat Victoria (20 years),
and what will determine its success.
advice is researched, expectations are
“came a sense of great responsibility and
accurate and objectives achieved,” states
thereafter pride, at JLL being trusted
months, Musca cautions the economy
national director John Musca.
by the most respected within the hotel
is showing challenging signs in the F&B
community nationally, to manage the very
sector, and that liquidity may continue
biggest of divestment decisions.”
to be challenging in some commodity-
“Certainly the sale of the Beach Hotel in Byron Bay was a landmark transaction for the industry and one in which we are
Hence, JLL is continuously advising
Looking forward to the next 12
dependent centres. That being said, he
immensely proud. The industry response
CUSTOM FIT ASSETS
has been overwhelming which surprised
Reflective of the current diverse state of
us somewhat, as the mandate team were
the industry, Musca has found that there
confident in the strategy and delighted
is no one model of an asset that appeals
for Melbourne and Sydney gaming-centric
with the outcomes both in commercial
to operators and investors, but rather
assets and its spread to the most populous
terms and in buyer fit for the asset in the
that a wide variety of features appeal to
regional centres, particularly those with
much loved township.”
different desired objectives.
a broader economic base. We will see
2019 was also a highlight year for JLL in
“With such a spread of different balance-
still expects a strong year of transactions in major population centres. “In 2020 we will see the ongoing demand
regional assets look to exit at capital-city
assisting some of the industry’s longest-
sheet profiles in the market presently,
pricing to take advantage of decade-high
serving stakeholders to exit their hotels,
we have dramatically different drivers
market conditions.”
22 | Australian Hotelier
Embracing individuality
Iain Ling
Publican The Lincoln Hotel
After bouncing back from a challenging 2018, the positive outcomes of 2019 have set up The Lincoln for more success in the New Year. IAIN LING, Publican of the Year at the 2019 Australian Liquor Industry
might not normally have ordered.” In the Carlton area, Ling said the
Awards (ALIAs), thinks his Carlton
competitive industry is drawn together
pub The Lincoln is not “the biggest or
by each venue’s diverse offerings, which
flashiest pub around.” But with several
helps build a sense of community.
national awards added to the pub’s
“Our neighbours offer quite different
collection this year, he knows he’s doing
products to us and we are seen in each
something right.
other’s places pretty frequently,” he said.
“Our team has gone from strength to
“It’s not so much a matter of standing
strength. We passed the five-year mark
out but of standing together, and making
recently and picking up more national
this part of Carlton a great place to come
awards this year has given us confidence
and have a few drinks in, no matter which
that we’re continuing to head in the right
venue it is.”
direction,” Ling said. Staying true to the personality and initial
FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES
goals of the venue is important for Ling,
Ling said that: “The old stereotype of a
and it’s something he credits its recent
pub is being challenged more and more,”
successes to. Into 2020 and beyond, it will
which will create a range of opportunities
be something that continues to push the
and challenges for publicans across the
pub’s strategy.
whole industry into the future.
A lot of these initial goals centred on
“There are so many difficulties day
The Lincoln’s food offering, expanding to
to day, which makes it a hard industry
influence the rest of the venue.
and market to survive in. There are a
“We opened with the aim of having good
The Lincoln’s menu focuses on local, seasonal and sustainable produce
New collaborations and pop-ups are
lot of challenges, with wages, tax, staff,
on the cards for the pub in 2020. Ling
food with good provenance, buying off
the pursuit of happiness, constant and
said these will be key to allow them to
farmers and producers we know. Five years
continual development of technology,
“continue evolving into a better version
in and our beer and wine list shares a lot of
new third party companies offering us
of ourselves so we can welcome more
those same qualities,” Ling explained.
services,” Ling said.
guests and keep on pushing what a
“We know that we are not a strictly
The fact that there is no ‘one size fits
contemporary Australian pub can be,
run-of-the-mill Aussie pub but we really
all’ model for pubs is helping Ling and the
trying to break into new markets while
enjoy doing what we do and pleasantly
team at The Lincoln think outside the box
remaining faithful to our core values and
surprising people with something they
in 2020.
our wonderful regular guests.”
Month 2020 | 23
OPERATOR
THE LINCOLN
LONG RANGE SYSTEMS
SUPPLIER
Where speed is everything
Anthony Lewy
Managing Director LRS Australia
As the likes of Uber Eats and Deliveroo have made ordering food via app par for the course, LRS Australia has allowed venues to get in on ordering via phone, cutting down on wait times in venue. ASK ANTHONY Lewy, managing director
The TEXT4SERVICE software has proven very popular in the US
of LRS Australia, how the company is going and he will tell you that it had its biggest year to date in 2019. He puts the business’ success down to extending the company’s product line, amassing larger customer reach in the US, which in turn is resulting in a keen interest in the company’s products in Australia. LRS Australia has a versatile range of paging products that can be implemented in a variety of environments and industries; including gaming paging solutions designed for hotel and club venues. While trends in technology tend
TEXT4SERVICE, which was designed
to evolve at break-neck speed, LRS
to make it easier for patrons to order
Australia strives to evolve at pace and
and pay for their food, drinks and other
TEXT4SERVICE to recognising and reacting
develop software that can integrate with
service requests via a QR code in-venue
to a change in consumer behaviour.
its existing equipment to further improve
with no app needed. It has proven to
customer experience.
be very successful in America, and LRS
consumer behaviour is the use of apps to
attended several exhibitions all over
order food/drinks and services all from
proven to be extremely fast-paced, with
Australia demonstrating the new products
your smartphone. Consumers want ease
patrons expecting quick and efficient
and software, generating a lot of interest
of use and simplicity. Apps like Uber
service. LRS Australia’s paging systems
within hospitality.
Eats and Menulog have all been very
“Hotel-style environments have also
have been exceeding our customers’
“We have received great, positive
So it’s a win-win scenario.” Lewy credits the success of
“I think the biggest change to occur in
successful, which is why LRS Australia
expectations with regards to improving
feedback from all the venues over in the
wanted to roll out a unique solution
staff efficiency and quality of service,”
USA where the system was initially rolled
such as TEXT4SERVICE, since there is a
states Lewy.
out,” states Lewy.
significant demand for such a product.”
“The turnaround time from servers
LRS Australia has some new and
ORDER FROM YOUR PHONE
has improved, which benefits both the
amazing software and hardware to hit the
The biggest launch for LRS Australia
customer and the staff. They have resulted
industry this year, which promises to make
in the past twelve months has been
in higher productivity and more revenue.
huge changes to how venues operate.
24 | Australian Hotelier
GAMING TECHNOLOGY HOSPITALITY Explore the best new and innovative gaming products and services, point-of-sale equipment, food & beverage, paging & communication, waste management, design, construction, fit-out, furniture, database management, entertainment and more. AGE is the cornerstone of the Australian gaming and hospitality industry. It is where gaming, technology, and hospitality meet.
11-13 AUGUST 2020 ICC SYDNEY Register at austgamingexpo.com
FREE ENTRY | TRADE ONLY
Ambarvale Hotel. Image courtesy of Paul Kelly Design.
PAUL KELLY DESIGN
SUPPLIER
Where the concept counts
Paul Kelly
Director Paul Kelly Design
Having worked on pubs and other hospitality venues for over two decades, Paul Kelly Design knows how to stay ahead of trends, and what is important within a fresh venue concept. LAST YEAR was a big and meaningful
new concepts at the Rose Bay Hotel, the
for consultants and organising these
one for Paul Kelly Design (PKD), as it
Banksia Hotel, and a new gaming concept
developments.”
completed work on several exciting
at Winston Hills Hotel. Interstate projects
Competition in the F&B space is also a
projects – many of which were with
included The Observatory in Hobart, and
factor that hoteliers should consider, with
clients they’ve worked with in the past.
the large-format Miss Moneypennys and
an increase of players in the field, and
Fat Freddy’s on the Gold Coast.
tighter margins. Venue concepts have to
“As most of our clients are long term and our project development timeline is
be smarter and fully evolved.
and it become a flashback year for us,”
RED TAPE AND TIGHTER MARGINS
states director Paul Kelly.
While the industry is booming across the
for potential operators, especially with the
country – and therefore for PKD as well –
very public failures of large food groups,”
hotel redevelopments PKD has ever taken
Kelly warns that ever increasing amounts
observes Kelly.
on, in the Ambarvale Hotel for Colin Parras.
of red tape mean that hoteliers should
PKD had previously worked on the Soho
factor in more time and expense for their
developing smart business models for our
Leopard Lounge and YU in Sydney’s Potts
renovation projects.
clients that limit their risk and these venues
so wide, in 2019 we had all the stars align
Works included one of the most extensive
“Business is tight in non-gaming hospitality and the risk is a real concern
“The good news is that we have been
Point for Parras in 2000 (incidentally Kelly
“Without doubt council and certifiers
are being rewarded for their intelligence.
met his wife at the Soho Leopard Lounge).
have been our biggest hurdle of late. Our
The market is once again smarter and the
workload in relation to approvals has easily
food and beverage offers need to open with
another project that came to fruition in
Union Place Hotel in Jannali was
doubled, which has really annoyed a lot of
a bang and stay that way.”
2019 for a long-term client, as PKD has
our clients as the costs have also doubled.
worked on several hotel venues for John
“Every year we find it harder to get
and Dean Feros in the past. “It was a great year to know that our
If Kelly’s workload for 2020 is anything to go by, the industry looks set to remain
approvals and modifications, but if the
dynamic this year, with a focus on
last twelve months are anything to go by,
excellence, and getting the basics right.
brand is still strong and our customers are
projects need to seriously look at their
still there with us,” says Kelly.
timelines to allow for these blowouts,
approach to all the sectors of the business.
and budgets need to add more money
The offers will just keep getting better.”
Other Sydney-based projects included
26 | Australian Hotelier
“I expect a continued professionalism and
Waywards at The Bank Hotel
Thinking big
Justine Baker CEO Solotel
Solotel continues to be an exemplar of the industry, having been one of the loudest voices for lockout reform and entertainment evolution in Sydney in the past twelve months. SOLOTEL SPENT 2019 focussing on weighty
operates the Kings Cross Hotel. Despite
with the aim to eliminate traditional
concepts: being one of the most vocal
the continued restrictions in the area,
gender roles.
campaigners for the end of Sydney’s lockout
Baker remains hopeful about the situation.
conditions; increasing its entertainment
“Although we are disappointed the
“This parental leave policy is supportive of modern families with
offering and capabilities; and developing a
removal of the lockouts does not extend to
shared responsibilities between parents,
framework that would commit the group to
the Kings Cross precinct, the removal of ID
irrespective of sexual orientation or gender
even higher levels of inclusivity.
scanners during the week is a positive step.”
identity. In keeping with this vision, the
Hand in hand with its vision for Sydney
objective of this parental leave policy is to
LOBBYING FOR SYDNEY
without lockouts, entertainment made up
retain Solotel’s incredible employees by
Solotel spent a lot of time in 2019
a key part of the group’s focus last year.
supporting them in fulfilling careers, whilst
campaigning for the repeal of the lockout
“Entertainment was a focus area
laws, as a founding member of the Night
for Solotel in 2019, with investment in
Time Industries Association (NTIA). Their
the diversification and quality of our
work, and that of many other industry
programming across the group as well as
UP NEXT
stakeholders, paid off, with the majority of
our sound/AV systems in our large venues
Solotel will continue to focus on the
lockout conditions repealed in mid-January.
such as the Sheaf, Kings Cross Hotel,
growth of the group this year, with a mi-
Albion Hotel and the Marlborough Hotel to
year launch planned for the Abercrombie
drive our club nights,” explains Baker.
Hotel on the fringes of Sydney’s CBD.
“[It’s] a great step in the right direction for Sydney’s arts, culture and nighttime industries. A long time coming, this
commencing a family and returning to work in a safe and nurturing environment.”
The hotel has been granted a late-
sets the industry up for a positive and
DIVERSITY MATTERS
successful year in 2020,” states CEO
In the past twelve months, Solotel has
performance to be the main focus for a
Justine Baker.
also developed a Diversity and Inclusivity
mainly millennial and Gen Z crowd.
“For Solotel, the key to success is a
night licence, with entertainment and
Commitment, with the goal to “lead the
The group is also looking at a couple of
progressive relationship between industry,
charge in the industry by creating policy
new venues, and has commenced panning
government and the regulators with open
that promotes gender equality, supports the
renovations for the Clock, Kings Cross
the lines of communication. We look
modern family and our employees’ careers.”
and Marlborough Hotels.
forward to this continuing via the set-up of
The company hopes to ensure that its
an industry advisory group which can work
workforce reflects its customer base and
closely with government to ensure success.”
community. As part of its commitment to
The lockout conditions remain in the Kings Cross precinct, where Solotel
“One thing I can guarantee is that we won’t be sitting still.” This is an abridged version of the
inclusivity, Solotel has launched a parental
interview with Justine Baker. Read the full
leave policy, available to all employees,
interview online at www.theshout.com.au.
February 2020 | 27
OPERATOR
SOLOTEL
SPARKKE AT THE WHITMORE
OPERATOR
A brand with a message
Rose Kentish
Co-founder Sparkke Change Beverage Company
It’s full steam ahead for female-led beverage company Sparkke after making their first move into the on-premise last year. FOR SPARKKE Change Beverage
company in the industry, with SKUs that
Company, 2019 was the milestone year
all seek to raise awareness about a range
core range from March this year is the
they took the leap into the hotel industry
of social issues. All packaging features
American Red Ale currently on tap at
and became operators of their very own
a message about topics such as gender
the hotel, with the can to feature the
pub in Adelaide, Sparkke at the Whitmore.
equality and Indigenous rights. The
words ‘climate change is a burning
team have translated this approach into
issue.’ For the month of January, 25
Sparkke at the Whitmore too.
per cent of all sales from the taps went
First opened in February, then revealing a new rooftop bar and kitchen in November, Sparkke at the Whitmore has already
“We’re founded and led by women. This
A new release that will enter the
to the Kangaroo Island Mayoral Relief
received a number of awards, accolades
brings a different approach to our space;
and Recovery Bushfire Fund, while the
and recognition from the industry.
guests frequently tell us that it’s a bit like
campaign continues to raise awareness of
Co-founder Rose Kentish said: “We’ve
being in someone’s home. That’s what we
the link between climate change and the
been so very lucky. Adelaide has embraced
focus on - ensuring everyone is welcome.”
worsening bushfire season.
us with open arms, as has the industry. But
The microbrewery attached to the
that customers keep coming back, and the
pub gives patrons a chance to taste the
business keeps growing are the signs of
Sparkke products fresh, and contribute to
THE JOY OF THE JOURNEY AHEAD
business health that we value most.”
new product development and innovation.
2020 will surely be another huge year for
It’s provided a valuable avenue to receive
the Sparkke team, already having plans to
the venue, the results so far have been so
Although it’s still relatively early days for
customer feedback, letting the public
open their next venue in Melbourne after
encouraging that there’s no sign of slowing
have a say as to which brew will enter the
purchasing The Vine Hotel in Collingwood
down on either the hotel or brewing front.
market and start raising awareness and
late last year.
“Our own premises promised us the opportunity of expressing our brand
money for a good cause. Kentish said: “We know almost
identity in the physical form, creating the
immediately when we’ve created a brew that
customer experience we wanted to give to
should form a part of our core range.”
our community and presenting our bevvies the way we felt worked best,” said Kentish.
SPARKKING CHANGE Sparkke have always been a unique
28 | Australian Hotelier
“We definitely believe that you are more
In the meantime, Kentish said they will simply be focused on doing ‘more’ at Sparkke at the Whitmore. “More great food. More fantastic brews. More visiting guest chefs. More art
in touch, and dynamic across all aspects
exhibitions. More cause activations. More
of your business if you are engaging
music. More sustainability…” she said.
directly with your customers. This is where the real communication happens.”
“We’ve got a long way to go, but the journey is the joy of it all.”
Want the latest pub news as it happens? Subscribe to our newsletter to keep up with all things concerning the industry.
Sign up at www.theshout.com.au/ australian-hotelier
PUB SALES • F&B • APPOINTMENTS • REVAMPS • LEGISLATION
ANALYSIS
2020 predictions Publicans and industry stakeholders have shared with us their calculations as to what will shape the next twelve months for the industry.
Hotel Esplanade
New markets focus emerge for pub assets in other areas of Australia this year.
Sydney nightlife 2.0
“Regional Queensland asset pursuit should intensify in the centres with more diverse economic bases
While welcoming the
which are not purely resource driven. Adelaide will no doubt attract more interest as the new gaming
repeal of Sydney’s
legislation brings earnings potential more in line with the eastern seaboard capitals, as will Tasmania
lockout legislation,
to a lesser extent due to different, positive legislative changes. And we expect an uplift in demand for
Justine Baker suggests
leasehold hotel interests of substance across the eastern seaboard as the spread between cost of debt
it will take time for the
and cash returns becomes irrepressibly attractive.
city to attract night
Besides the always popular markets of Melbourne and Sydney, John Musca predicts that demand will
“Finally we have recently all witnessed some spectacularly successful new greenfield tavern and hotel developments across Sydney and Melbourne, with some now mooted for south-east Queensland. We
revellers once more. “I don’t believe we
expect interest in new hotel developments within each state’s legislature, to increase to intensify as
will ever go back to the
demographics prevail.” John Musca, National Director, JLL Hotels & Hospitality
pre-2014 environment – that’s a thing of the past.
“Consumer habits and behaviour have changed, it is the opportunity to create a new narrative and environment for late nights.” Justine Baker, Solotel
Consumer habits and behaviour have changed, it is the opportunity to create a new narrative and environment for late nights. “I feel very positively
Tee-totallers welcome
about how the industry will evolve but Sydney
As the data has shown for years now that people are consuming less alcohol, Andy Mullins says its
will not suddenly
time for the industry to adapt.
change on January
“You’d have to be not listening to miss the fact that young people are drinking less and of a higher
15th either, it will be
quality. We’re certainly seeing an increase in things like Feb Fast, Dry July, Ocsober – these used to
a journey for both the
be novelties, they’re movements now.
industry to reinvest
“I fully expect that alcohol won’t play much of a role in the lives of my three children, so it means
in late night venues
venues will change and adapt as they always have. We’re very conscious that going out Thursday to
and activity and for
Saturday nights doesn’t mean what it did when I was younger, which was drink as much as you can
consumers to change
as fast as you can – it’s just not happening anymore. But that’s a positive trend for the industry, and
their behaviours.”
we’ve got to support it. The way to do that is to give as much attention to non-alcoholic options as
Justine Baker, CEO,
you do to alcoholic ones.” Andy Mullins, Director, Sand Hill Road
Solotel
30 | Australian Hotelier