Iconic Manchester bar group set for expansion under new owners
Manchester-based Black Dog Ballroom bar group has been sold to new owners by the Sedulo Corporate Finance team.
The deal will allow the chain to develop further under a new venture with the backing of TwentyTwentyTwo bar owner, Andy Haygarth, and current Black Dog area manager, Matt Robson.
Established in 2009 with their first venue in the thriving Northern Quarter, Black Dog Ballroom quickly cemented its place as a stalwart of the area offering a Manhattan vibe coupled with an extensive drink selection.
The success of the first venue led to two further sites, with the addition of a second Black Dog Ballroom on New Wakefield Street, and then Dog Bowl, the bowling alley bar on Whitworth Street.
Speaking on behalf of the Black Dog group’s shareholders, Ross Mackenzie said: “We are very proud of what we have achieved with the bars, but the time is right to pass over the reins to the new owners who can continue to operate and grow what is a very well-known brand in Manchester.
“I’d like to thank Will and Benn at Sedulo for their assistance and expert guidance throughout the process.”
Sedulo’s Will Stanton added: “It’s been a pleasure to assist Ross, Jobe and the other shareholders in the sale of the bars that they have worked so hard to build over a number of years.
“The Black Dog bars are an institution in Manchester so we’re proud to have been able to find new owners and co-ordinate the transition.”
And with the backing of Andy Haygarth, Matt Robson and the ever-popular ping pong bar TwentyTwentyTwo, the group aim to be reaching new heights as they increase their presence on the Manchester bar & leisure scene.
The Black Dog shareholders were represented by Sandra Crichton and Sheridan Edge of Kuits, and the acquirers were represented by James Down and Harriet Watson of Hill Dickinson.
Funding was provided by Simon King and Daniel Pennington of Allied Irish Bank (GB), who were assisted by Steven Lindsay of Kay Johnson Gee
