Match Bar Group, the business led by entrepreneur Jonathan Downey, has opened its first bar in Australia as part of a plan to open 10 over the next three years.
Working in partnership with a local entrepreneur, the company has unveiled The Match Bar & Grill in Melbourne.
Downey told M&C: “I don’t think the Australians need any help with great food or restaurants but the bar market is perhaps less developed than in the UK.
“There is a real thirst here for international bar concepts and some fantastic property deals available. Ultimately, we are exporting what has been a very successful formula for us back home, of great drinks and great service in a very nice bar environment.”
Match, which operates a clutch of bars in London such as Sosho, Milk & Honey and the East Rooms, as well as an eponymous bar in Ibiza and a luxury lodge in Chamonix, has formed a separate company for the Australian venture.
It has a 90% stake in the Australian arm, while its local partner has a 10% share.
The group is looking for a second site in Sydney and is also understood to be looking at sites in Asia, including Shanghai.
Downey added: “Another reason we are here is to recruit great staff. We can offer the right people a cracking two years working in some of the best bars in London and Europe.
