Leading national law firm Mills Oakley was delighted to advise founders Ben Carroll and Hamish Watts on the sale of a majority stake in the Applejack Group to key hospitality player, Compass Group Australia.

Applejack Group comprises a diverse portfolio of 12 restaurants, bars and cafes, including the iconic Sydney CBD restaurant, Bopp and Tone, and the beloved Forrester’s Pub in Surry Hills.

Founded in 2011 by Hamish and Ben, the company employs over 350 people across its venues and is committed to pushing the boundaries of culinary culture in its unique contribution to the Sydney food scene.

Mills Oakley advised the Applejack team on the legal aspects of the transaction, which was completed on 13 December 2024, including negotiating sale documentation and the terms of the parties’ ongoing relationship post-Completion.

The Mills Oakley team was led by Corporate Advisory Partner Brent Delaney and Legal Advisor Olivia Bailhe, together with a team of experts from across the firm.

Commenting on the transaction, lead partner Brent Delaney said:

“It was a pleasure working with the buyers and HSF to achieve a fantastic result for all parties involved. We look forward to seeing the business Hamish and Ben built continue to grow under Compass Group and have no doubt that Compass Group’s presence in the Australian market will enable Applejack to expand and explore new sectors.”

Compass Group was advised by Herbert Smith Freehills.