LUKE Johnson is a serious commercial player. This serial investor’s track record with entertainment and food companies is undeniably impressive.
And he has a thing for Brighton. So news that his Eclectic Bar Group has bought the Palace Pier for £18 million is to be welcomed.
Johnson’s turnaround of Pizza Express was mightily impressive.
His collection of food and bar brands is, well, eclectic and stylish.
And his investment group’s money is already being felt in the city. Eclectic’s Coalition, Dirty Blonde and Lola Lo are clubs that add value to the city’s leisure offering not detract from it.
He has invested in some of the city’s best pubs and he knows how a good funky Brighton business works. Last year he invested in Small Batch Coffee which started at Brighton Station and is now a major chain.
When he pumped money into the business he talked of the company’s “cool spaces, friendly staff and meticulous attention to detail”.
And he tells The Argus how much he loves our city.
That combination bodes well for the pier.
Of course all that is lovable about the attraction must be preserved. Kiss-me-quick, fish and chips and penny falls are a vital part of the seaside experience.
But there is no doubt that things can be improved, updated and modernised. A dash of style amid the thrills and spills would make an even more winning combination.
Johnson talks about taking time to bring in improvements. His record suggests his concept of time might be shorter than others’ and that impetus is to be welcomed. Oh and one final thing Mr Johnson. It’s called the Palace Pier.
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