Dixon Hospitality has been rebranded to Australian Venue Co. as of early December, and has now made its first purchase under the new business name, acquiring Friday’s Riverside in Brisbane.
The company explained the name change in a statement.
“The new name reflects our national presence as the go-to company for dining, drinking, entertainment, events and venue hire throughout Australia.”
The rebrand comes almost six months after global investment firm KKR purchased a majority stake in the acquisitive hospitality group for $190 million.
Friday’s buy
Yesterday, Australian Venue Co confirmed plans to buy the well-known Friday’s venue in the Riverside complex in the heart of Brisbane’s CBD. This is the first time Friday’s has exchanged hands in over 30 years, since opening in 1986. With 180 degree views of Brisbane River and the famed Story Bridge, the venue is a beloved nightspot on the water.
Paul Waterson, group CEO of Australian Venue Co., stated that the Friday’s acquisition furthered the group’s national strategy, and praised the venue.
“Over the last 3 years, we’ve seen remarkable growth as we’ve positively adopted and created some of the most exciting brands in the Australian hospitality industry. Friday’s Riverside is a Brisbane institution for locals and neighbours alike, so we are eager to continue growing its celebrated reputation.”
Australian Venue Co. has venues in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and Northern Territory. It most recently expanded into Western Australia with the purchase of Guildford Hotel from Publican Group.
The acquisition of Friday’s is expected to be settled in February.