Public, which currently owns over 20 properties including Oxford House, The Strand Hotel and Lady Hampshire, has announced that it has acquired The Maybe Group.
The two groups have worked together on a number of venues, most recently the popular Paddington hotspot El Primo Sanchez. The acquisition will see this partnership flourish and bring more venue concepts to life with exciting and exceptional food and beverage offerings.
Public’s Executive Chairman, Jon Adgemis, said: “Public has grown at an incredible pace over the past 12 months and we are continuing this trajectory as we acquire The Maybe Group.”
He added: “We don’t know everything and we’re not too proud to admit it, which is why a demonstrated, effective method of working with those who do, is welcomed at Public.”
The Maybe Group, which is currently hosting a successful Maybe Cocktail Festival has said the move is a major milestone and that the team is already planning for next year’s festival with hopes to take it to new locations such as Melbourne and Byron Bay.
Owner and Co-Director, Vince Lombardo, said: “We have an established and progressive working relationship with Public. The success of El Primo Sanchez and the feeling of family within Public meant there was no question when it came to joining Jon and the team.
“We’re feeling more inspired than ever with the exciting new concepts underway, and we’re looking forward to welcoming guests into the next generation of hospitality with Public and The Maybe Group.”
The acquisition takes effect immediately and marks a new chapter for both group, with new venues already in the pipeline.
Public said that on the horizon are restorations, a yet-to-be-named hotel in Bondi, the Kurrajong Hotel in Erskineville and The Town Hall in Balmain. “These venues are all driven by the desire to create newly familiar and warm places that bring renewed energy to the neighbourhood,” the group said.