The famous Groucho Club has been purchased for an undisclosed sum by the hospitality group Artfarm. The club, which remains a hub for the creative arts community, joins a portfolio that includes the Fife Arms in Braemar, Roth Bar and Grill in Somerset and the upcoming Audley Public House in Mayfair.
Previously, The Groucho was owned by a group of investors, including Alcuin Capital Partners, ICG Enterprise Trust and Isfield Investments. Ownership aside, the club has quite a unique history.
Founded in the 1980s by a group of female publishers, its purpose was to buck the trend of stuffy gentlemen’s clubs. In fact, the name comes from the famous Groucho Marx quote: 'I don’t want to belong to any club that would have me as a member.'
Now, it boasts a membership of nearly 5,000, hailing from all over the world and prides itself on its Bohemian vibe, funky interiors and great food.
The chief executive of Artfarm, Ewan Venters, said: 'As a member for some time myself, I understand the special place the Groucho occupies in London's cultural landscape. Under Artfarm's ownership, the future of the club is assured.
'We will respect the history and traditions of the club, and we look forward to engaging with its membership to create a long-term future for the Groucho that builds on its eclectic appeal and maverick ethos. I think Artfarm and the Groucho are, in many ways, kindred spirits, and I am excited at the prospect of welcoming members old and new to this legendary London club.'
The chairman of the Groucho Club, Nick Hurrell, had this to say: 'I am delighted that we have reached an agreement with Artfarm, who are the perfect owners for the Groucho. Their mix of cultural engagement, pedigree in art and excellence in hospitality sits very well with the particular spirit of a members' club that has been an important part of London's cultural life for many years.
'To our 5,000 members around the world, I'd say that the future has never looked brighter.'
For more venue news, find out what the team behind Printworks has in store next.