Merivale to deliver hospitality services for SCG and new Sydney Football Stadium

Merivale, led by the high-profile Justin Hemmes, has been named as the exclusive hospitality experience partner for the Sydney Cricket Ground and Sydney Football Stadium precinct.

Following an extensive competitive tender process, Merivale will provide all catering and beverage services at both venues from December 2021 for an initial term of nearly six years until September 2027.

Known for operating a range of dining and entertainment venues, Merivale will bring its expertise to the Sydney Cricket Ground for the start of the Big Bash League next month and then in time for Sydney’s New Year’s Test.

The partnership will see hospitality and hotels operator’s celebrated executive chefs Danielle Alvarez (Fred’s), Jordan Toft (mimi’s, Bert’s Bar & Brasserie), Dan Hong (Ms.G’s, Mr. Wong), Mike Eggert (Totti’s), Ben Greeno (The Paddington, Hotel Centennial) and Vincenzo Biondini (Vinnie’s Pizza) bring their expertise into a stadium setting under the leadership of Merivale Chief Executive Hemmes, Group Operations Manager (Events) Debbie Higgins and senior talent across the business including Franck Moreau and Sam Egerton.

Looking forward to Merivale bringing Sydney’s most popular bar and restaurant brands to the city’s most celebrated sporting venues, Hemmes advised “in partnering with Venues NSW, we will strive to provide the most enjoyable and exciting experience to the people of NSW and to all guests of the SCG and the new SFS; food and beverage forms an integral part of the overall experience, and we look forward to delivering on all occasions.

“This is an incredible and truly unique opportunity for Merivale; we are humbled to be a part of Sydney’s sporting and entertainment history. I want to sincerely thank Venues NSW for sharing our vision. This new partnership will see us bring together Merivale's wonderful talent pool, diverse restaurant brands, quality service and inherent love of Sydney to help deliver a world-class experience to every person who steps into the stadium.”

Merivale, founded in the 1950s, anticipates employ over 1000 staff across both venues when the Sydney Football Stadium opens.

Hemmes added “this is a major milestone in our company’s history and builds on our commitment to the city of Sydney, its culture, economy and job creation.”

The SCG’s summer menus are currently being refined by the Merivale executive chef team and the partnership will deliver an offering focused on quality, variety, value for money and ease and speed of service.

Merivale Group Operations Manager, Debbie Higgins, who will lead the hospitality giant’s preparation for the summer of cricket. Added “we like to think that every day is match day at Merivale venues; we endeavour to create the kinds of experiences our guests won’t ever forget.

“Our sole focus will be on elevating the overall experience at iconic sporting moments and concerts, as well as transforming the full-service stadium event offering on non-match days throughout the year.

“Our passion and our commitment to delivering excellence will mean a great game day experience for the fans and, importantly, more time watching the on-field action and less time waiting in line.”

Images: Merivale Chief Executive Justin Hemmes and members of his team at the Sydney Cricket Ground (top) and Venues NSW Chief Executive Kerrie Mather with Hemmes (below). Credit: Phil Hillyard.