Ireland’s largest hospitality group, Press Up has been rebranded as Eclective Hospitality Group, reflecting its diverse portfolio of restaurants, bars, and a cinema, employing 850 people across 24 venues in Dublin.
After selling all its hotels, the group now has seven restaurants, including Angelina’s and Doolally, plus Captain America’s in Blanchardstown; six branches of Elephant & Castle, including in Temple Bar and Rathmines; and six branches of Wowburger.
The company was taken over by Cheyne Capital in a debt-for-equity swap last year, valuing its share at €25m, after previously owing up to €45m. Press Up was originally formed in 2009 by Paddy McKillen Jr and Matt Ryan.
Under the new branding, Eclective has launched the Asian restaurant Kaldero in the former location of Press Up’s Wagamama on St Stephen’s Green and continues to operate iconic venues like Stella Cinema in Rathmines. Mr McKillen retains a seat on the board and a stake of 10pc. Mr Ryan is no longer involved.
Chief operations officer Dave Mongan shared: “It is more than just a name change. It underlines all our teams’ commitment to build on what has been achieved to date, creating exciting and vibrant social experiences across the city. As we develop the business over the coming years, we will strive to elevate the customer experience.”
Tristan Jacob Chief Commercial Officer at Eclective shared: We chose the word ‘Eclective’ carefully, and although not a word in the dictionary, it captures the essence of our group, which celebrates different experiences in unique venues for people from all walks of life.
