Australian Venue Co has revealed plans to spend north of $50 million revitalising and expanding two-dozen pubs across the Sunshine State, in a major show of faith in the market.
AVC already holds 86 pubs in Queensland and sees opportunity in investing in the state’s fast-growing pub landscape.
The Victoria-based group has grown rapidly in the north, largely courtesy of its taking on the Spirit portfolio in early 2019, holding Brisbane stalwarts such as the Regatta Hotel and Fridays Riverside.
Following the minimal impact on business in Queensland throughout the pandemic, alongside the Palaszczuk Government’s continued support, AVC report a “confidence to invest” in the market.
Queensland-born chief operating officer Craig Ellison is relocating back to his home state in order to devote more time to this market, and oversee transformation of seven hotels by the end of this financial year, aiming to “bring these pubs back” to their communities.
“Queensland pubs have so much unique character, and we want to dial that up,” he says.
“They’re going to be more welcoming and enjoyable spaces for families, friends, sports fans and live music-lovers.”
Heading into renovation are the Everton Park Hotel, Kings Beach Tavern, Lutwyche’s Crown Hotel, Beenleigh Tavern, Coomera Lodge, Mackay’s Boomerang Hotel and Cairns’ Dunwoody’s. After these will come Capalaba’s Koala Tavern and Burleigh Town Tavern on the Gold Coast.
In line with post-pandemic consumer preferences, the renovations will focus on adding or increasing outdoor spaces and increasing footprints, adding features such as beer gardens, and gaming rooms and restaurants with more of an open feel.
Kings Beach is set to open in April. It and Beenleigh will also have increased focus on live music and local bands.
It’s anticipated each renovated venue will employ an additional 10 to 15 workers.
This next round of makeovers follows recent work already done at major pubs including Loganholme’s Fitzy’s, Bald Hills’ Bonny View Hotel, and Mudgeeraba’s Wallaby Hotel.
AVC notes “a consumer shift” post-COVID to embracing suburban and regional pubs like never before.
This shift has prompted decision to revive two-dozen sites over the next three to four years, largely in the state’s south-east. Ellison says the goal is to create modern environments for customers where they can feel comfortable coming in several times a week.
“We’re revamping the venues, including the bistro, sports bars and outdoor spaces, while making sure we preserve heritage features and keeping it tailored to what the locals want.”
