Benedict’s Enters New Phase under Colin and Louise Johnston

Tommy Doherty, business manager, Bank of Ireland with Colin and Louise Johnston, Benedicts and Gavin North, senior business manager, Bank of Ireland

Benedict’s is entering a new phase under experienced local ownership. Colin and Louise Johnston’s £5.25m acquisition, supported by Bank of Ireland, 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 15 years of experience across hospitality, accommodation and property operations. They are 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.”