Great Australian Beer Spectapular (GABS) has announced a new investment partnership with leading hotelier Jerry Schwartz.
The investment by Schwartz, head of an iconic 14-property hotel portfolio, will allow GABS to bring national events to craft beer lovers all year round, as well as providing a platform for Schwartz Family Company events to grow.
The new partnership agreement between the Schwartz Family Company and Spectapular Enterprises (organisers of GABS) will extend its craft beer and wine consumer experiences to regional areas. Under the agreement, Schwartz will also undertake a board appointment and partnership equity in Spectapular Enterprises.
GABS, operator of some of Australia’s largest national beer events, will launch its new Finer Drop event in November, bringing a premium food and drinks experience to Randwick Racecourse in Sydney. The new event, showcasing exceptional beverages, gourmet cuisines and live entertainment, follows the success of the popular GABS festival.
Mike Bray, Managing Director of GABS, commented: “The partnership with Jerry is a natural fit on all levels. He brings a wealth of experience in providing local and international guests exceptional experiences every day. I see huge potential to build on the incredible work the SFC team have done with Canberra Beer & Cider Festival and Hunter Valley Wine & Beer Festival over the years.”
In the merging of this transaction, the GABS portfolio will now include the Canberra Craft Beer & Cider Festival, the Hunter Valley Wine & Beer Festival and Gold Coast Beer & Cider Festival. Alongside the expansion of GABS’ well-respected events portfolio, the partnership will provide greater national exposure for the regional wine and beer festivals.
“I am really delighted about incorporating our Canberra, Hunter Valley and Gold Coast events into the Spectapular calendar,” said Schwartz.
“It is a fantastic platform that will help take these events to new heights over the next ten years and beyond. We’re also looking to introduce some new premium events and products, the first being Finer Drop, as we continue to grow and provide consumers and exhibitors with more world-class experiences.”