Sonnel Hospitality has announced a major step in its commitment to transform hospitality in western Sydney, unveiling $75 million remodelling plans across four of its key venues.
The major investment marks a bold step forward in the group’s mission to create well designed community-first hubs, which it wants offering exceptional food and drinks for families, where children can play, as well as function areas, quality accommodation and “lively entertainment experiences”.
The New Victoria Tavern, Ashfield Hotel, Ermington Hotel and flagship Crossroads Hotel will undergo significant upgrades, and group CEO Simon Meers believes they are deserving of world-class hospitality.
“We see our venues as more than just places to eat and drink and watch the big screens, they’re community hubs, gathering spaces, and destinations for connection for all age groups and backgrounds,” he says.
Acquired in 2022 for a record-setting $160 million, the Crossroads Hotel in Casula is set to get even bigger with a new high-energy sports bar, redesigned bistro and stylish cocktail lounge, plus a 39-room accommodation offering and proposed 200-person function centre. The $34 million works will aim to make the venue a destination in its own right, blending hospitality, entertainment and accommodation while catering to the demographic with a large-scale kids’ play area.
Ermington Hotel is slated to undergo a $29 million transformation, bringing a stylish cocktail lounge, contemporary bistro and expansive kids’ play area. It will also be adding an on-site café and bakery, 40-room accommodation wing, and 200-person function centre, The group is also exploring entertainment-based elements, such as a bowling alley.
Redevelopment of the Ashfield Hotel is aiming to strike a balance between preserving the pub’s rich heritage while introducing a vibrant, modern vibe and open rooftop space. A “completely reimagined” food and beverage offering will incorporate a focus on shared dining and excellence.
Similarly, the New Victoria Tavern in Wetherill Park is gearing toward uplifting the food and beverage offering, planning a bold new menu catering to both casual get-togethers and business. It will feature massive sports screens to make it a local go-to destination for live events.
Western Sydney is one of the most diverse and rapidly growing regions in the country and Sonnel is one of the biggest hospitality employers in the region. All the pubs getting attention are in precincts seeing significant population growth.
Sonnel says its f&b vision is focused on offerings reflecting modern tastes while staying true to what locals want. This approach has reportedly been “well received by the community” at the recently re-loved Guildford Hotel and most recently re-worked Marrickville Tavern.
All redevelopments will focus on elevating every aspect of the guest experience.
“Our commitment is to deliver venues that reflect the needs and character of each local area,” says Meers.
“Our redevelopment plans for each of the hotels are reflective of this and we’re excited to have the wheels in motion.”
