One of Belfast’s best-known independent hospitality venues is entering a new phase under experienced local ownership, following Colin and Louise Johnston’s £5.25m acquisition of Benedicts, supported by Bank of Ireland.
The acquisition secures the continued independent ownership of the Bradbury Place hotel, bar and restaurant while retaining the established Benedicts team and the character that has made the venue a familiar part of Belfast’s hospitality scene since 1998.
Colin and Louise bring more than fifteen years of experience across hospitality, accommodation and property operations. They are already planning for a busy festive season with Benedicts set to welcome more than 5,000 festive diners and thousands more party goers over multiple Christmas party nights and events, with some 3,000 overnight guests across November and December.
Colin Johnston said: “We wanted to take on a business with a strong identity, an experienced team and a real connection with its customers, and Benedicts has all three. It is a venue people know well, and our priority is to build on that success, retaining all that makes it special. That cannot be said without paying tribute to The Simpson Family, to whom Louise and I express our sincere gratitude for their continued support, further backed by Mona Callaghan which has gone beyond what could reasonably be expected in a transaction of this nature.
“Following on from our Westlife Brunches, our first Christmas at Benedicts is an important moment for us and the response so far has been very encouraging. Alongside delivering the warm welcome, good food and lively atmosphere customers expect, we are also building some exciting plans for 2027.
“The support from Gavin, Tommy and the wider Bank of Ireland team made a real difference. They took the time to understand us, the business and what we wanted to achieve, and were with us at every stage of the acquisition. We really valued their straightforward guidance and hands-on approach.”
Gavin North, Senior Business Manager, Bank of Ireland UK, said: “Colin and Louise understand what makes Benedicts successful. We are delighted to support two experienced local business owners who are committed to protecting its character, its strong team and the warm welcome customers know and value.
“Backing businesses with the ambition to grow is at the heart of what we do. With local knowledge and strong relationships, we can help customers like Colin and Louise move their plans forward, creating opportunities for their business, their people and the wider community.”