The Australian Liquor Industry Awards ceremony (ALIA’s) were held on Wednesday night in Sydney. These are judged and voted for by the industry, for the industry, and fully audited by PKF Australia. Sydney based boutique hospitality group Applejack took out the prestigious award ‘Bar Group Operator Of The Year’, an award previously won by the likes of the Swillhouse Group and Speakeasy Group.
Applejack was founded in 2011 by seasoned professionals Hamish Watts and Ben Carroll, who have combined experience and expertise of over 35 years in the hospitality industry. The passionate duo are determined to challenge the status quo and lead the industry by delivering unique venues to bring people together, creating epic concepts and magic experiences.
“To be recognised and awarded by our peers is awesome” commented Carroll. “It makes our win last night that bit more special”. Watts added, “Applejack is all about the people. We’re so grateful for the amazing teams we have working across all levels of the business. Our success and this award is all down to their hard work and passion”.
Ben and Hamish have opened and operated 9 successful venues over 7 years. Currently their stable includes Bopp & Tone, June’s Shoppe, The Butler Potts Point, The Botanist Kirribilli, SoCal Sydney, Endeavour Tap Rooms, and Table Sixty . Last year Applejack sold their Bondi institution, Bondi Hardware, and have exciting plans for further expansion in the near future.