Winarch Group has acquired Wats On Events, bolstering its festival bar management, licensing, pop-up bar, and brand activation capabilities as it looks to scale operations across Australia.
The acquisition sees all full-time staff, including general manager B Morgan, move over to Winarch, with founder Michael Watson staying on to ensure a smooth transition. Originally launched in 2009 as Wats On Tap, the company has evolved into a leading festival and event bar operations provider, working with global brands, agencies, and venues.
Now housed under Winarch Live, Winarch’s newly launched event and venue services division, Wats On Events joins Cedar Mill Events, Secure Events and Assets (SEAA), The Olive Tree Market, and The Finders Keepers Markets.
With Ewen Craig leading Winarch Live, the division has big expansion plans, including moving into the Melbourne market and securing major food and beverage contracts over the next 18 months. Integration with other Winarch businesses, including The Finders Keepers, is also on the horizon.
Wats On Events founder, Watson, said: “Almost 16 years ago I sold my boat to fund the inception of this business, and I can’t believe how far it’s come. What began as a dry hire bar rental business, has grown and evolved into the well respected and thriving business it is today, and is something I am extremely proud of. I have been fortunate to have been involved in some extraordinary events and activations while leading Wats On Events.
Wats On Events Founder, Michael Watson.
“As a solo founder, who has been very hands-on and close to my amazing team, I’m chuffed Winarch Group acquired Wats On Events. Their team has similar values and I’m confident they’ll continue to look after the company’s staff and the legacy of the business. We’ve built something truly unique and special, and I can’t wait to see how Winarch Group scales the company across the country.”
Winarch Group Founder and Director, Paul Lambess, said: “At Winarch Group, we’re driven by a vision to reshape the live entertainment and tourism landscape through strategic investments and ambitious partnerships. Every acquisition we make adds to the human experience, and strengthens our ability to deliver world-class venues, live music events, and lasting experiences that support and help local and regional economies to thrive.
Winarch Group Founder and Director, Paul Lambess.
“Wats On Events is a natural extension of that vision. It has carved out a unique position in the market, building a loyal following of customers and clients who genuinely love what it delivers. Michael and the team have built an impressive company that is in demand, respected and ready for growth. Integrating Wats On Events into Winarch Live is an exciting next step – one that allows us to scale the business, reach new markets and further strengthen our event capabilities across our existing portfolio. This is exactly the kind of business we look for, one with strong foundations, a great team and the potential to grow even bigger.”
Winarch Group’s acquisition of Wats On Events, now part of the Winarch Live division, marks a strategic expansion for the business.
With a growing portfolio spanning world-class venues, music businesses, markets, and event services, including the upcoming Cedar Mill Events precinct in Lake Macquarie, Winarch continues to cement itself as a leader in live entertainment, tourism, and events.
Bringing Wats On Events’ food and beverage expertise into the fold strengthens Winarch’s ability to deliver seamless venue and event experiences, pushing its offering to the next level.