After over 20 years in the hospitality industry, Max Bremner has developed a portfolio of freehold hospitality outlets. Rather than being a passive investor, Max’s business, Oxford Management Services, runs a wide range of bars, restaurants and cafes in Christchurch, including the trendy and popular SOL Square, and Cashel Mall.
Christchurch’s two devastating earthquakes hit Max’s portfolio hard, resulting in millions of dollars of damage and disruption. One of the worst hit properties was the busy Speight’s Ale House on Bealey Avenue. In addition to being a thriving bar and restaurant, it also has visitor accommodation, popular with business travellers, tourists and visiting sports teams alike.
Although the Ale House managed to reopen reasonably quickly, the accommodation block was completely destroyed by the quake and will take over 18 months to rebuild.
