Duxton Pubs Group has announced another round of expansion, picking up two more prized venues on its road to the top.
The South Australia-based group has added to the growing portfolio the Swanport Hotel in Murray Bridge, as well as the historic The Australasian in Goolwa, which recently underwent a major transformation and for which they paid circa $2.5 million.
“The Duxton Pub Group’s expansion into Murray Bridge comes at an exciting time, with the region experiencing strong population growth and set to benefit from nearby developments such as the Thomas Foods expansion, the Gifford Hill development and the 30-year plan for greater Adelaide,” says chairman and founder Ed Peter.
The Group is a product of the Duxton Pubs Fund, launched in 2020 by Peter in conjunction with partners Brett Matthews and Martin Palmer, declaring a long-term goal of becoming a Top 3 pub owner across Australia.
DPG has now amassed more than 20 venues across South Australia, including The Cremorne at Unley, the Old Noarlunga Hotel, the Bushman’s Arms at Naracoorte, and the Saracens Head, since entering the scene mid-2020 with purchase of the iconic Lion of Adelaide.
In 2022 DPG acquired Little Bang Brewing Company, paving the way for the company’s popular brews to be served across the state, and recently absorbed BSGM Hospitality Services – the company that managed its portfolio, owned by Matthews and Palmer. This is to be rebranded Duxton Hospitality Services, and Matthews and Palmer take a larger stake in DPG.
“It’s an exciting time in the group’s development journey and this latest evolution will strongly position us for further expansion,” furthered Matthews.
Swanport Hotel is well-patronised by Murray Bridge locals, and stands to benefit from major investment and population growth in the region.
The Australasian, built in 1858, was being run as a high-end restaurant when it closed in 2019. Juliet Michell bought the derelict hotel in 2003, and over the past two years has undertaken a major renovation and restoration. It was sold in a campaign through Grant Giordano of Giordano & Partners, and co-agent Craig Ellis, who report significant interest from local and interstate investors.
Duxton has plans to reopen the business, focusing on its luxury accommodation rooms.
Ed Peter describes its potential as “endless”.
