Baker McKenzie advises Sunset Hospitality Group

Baker McKenzie has acted as legal counsel to Sunset Hospitality Group (“SHG”), a leading multinational lifestyle hospitality group with an extensive portfolio of hospitality, entertainment and F&B destinations, on its acquisition of a majority interest in Maximal Concepts Holding (“Maximal Concepts”), a Hong Kong-based hospitality group which is renowned for operating premium venues under various brands, including John Anthony, Limewood, Palais de Chine, Sip Song, The Aubrey, and the well-known and highly awarded Mott 32. Maximal Concepts operates in Hong Kong, Las Vegas, Vancouver, Singapore, Dubai, Toronto, Bangkok, Seoul, and Cebu, and upcoming venues in Los Angeles, Bali, Riyadh, Manila, Mumbai, and Scottsdale and is one of the most awarded hospitality groups in Asia.

The acquisition marks a significant step for SHG in bolstering its portfolio of world-class F&B brands. By partnering with Maximal Concepts, which is celebrated for its expertise in creating unique gastronomic experiences, SHG will enhance its ability to deliver exceptional dining and entertainment options. This strategic move, combined with SHG’s robust commercial, technical and operational capabilities, will further strengthen SHG’s position as a leading global hospitality group, increasing its total number of venues to over 80 across 22 countries.

Adnan Doha, M&A partner at Baker McKenzie in the UAE, commented, “This successful acquisition is a testament to SHG’s vision and ambition in the global hospitality sector. We are proud to have supported our client in not only diversifying their already impressive portfolio but also in expanding their footprint into key international markets.”

Maude El Khoury, general counsel at SHG, stated: “The acquisition of Maximal Concepts represents a pivotal moment for Sunset Hospitality Group. We are grateful to Baker McKenzie for their outstanding guidance and support throughout the transaction. We look forward to continuing our collaboration as we drive forward our international expansion.”

 The cross-border and cross-practice Baker McKenzie team, led by M&A partner Adnan Doha, included:

• Corporate/M&A: Patrick McGregor (senior associate, Abu Dhabi), Ololade Odunubi (associate, Dubai), Nicole Galledari (associate, Dubai), Tracy Wut (partner, Hong Kong), Angie Yeung (senior associate, Hong Kong)
• Real Estate & Hospitality: Keri Watkins (partner, Dubai), Tessa Crawford (associate, Dubai)
• Banking & Finance: Adil Hussain (partner, Dubai), Chaya Gupta (senior associate, Dubai)
• Employment: Joanna Taylor-Matthews (partner, Dubai), Mark Tedeschi (associate, Dubai)