Swans Hotel and Brewpub may soon be under the control of a new operator following UVic Properties’ announcement that the organization is seeking a partner-operator to manage the facility.

 

A request for expressions of interest (REFOI) was issued on February 17th to qualify interested publicans and hoteliers for the opportunity to take over operations from UVic. The university will continue to own the heritage-designated building and property in what has been recently referred to as the 'Lantern District' of lower Pandora Avenue.

 

“Swans is a strong hospitality brand in Victoria and the property is well located in an emerging area of the city. In order to maintain our relevance, we are looking for a dynamic partnership opportunity that would see Swans revitalized to maintain a viable and sustainable source of revenue from the business and we expect an operating partner to deliver those results,” says Peter Kuran, president and CEO of UVic Properties.

 

“A partnership with a proven hospitality operator will ensure this property continues to financially support UVic and assures that the hotel, brewery and pub have a strong, viable future. In this way, we continue to honour Michael Williams’ legacy toward post-secondary education and community benefit.”

 

In 2015 Uvic Properties initiated a consultation process to determine the best course of action for the Swans complex, which was gifted to the university in 2001 along with a number of other heritage properties by the late Michael Williams, a land developer renowned for his heritage building restoration projects.

 

“In keeping with our accountability to the university, UVic Properties is taking a responsible fiscal approach to ensure a strong, long-term future for Swans,” says Tony Gage, UVic Properties board chair. “We looked to industry experts for their advice and we expect there will be significant interest in this partnership opportunity.”

 

A shortlist of qualified proponents will be assessed by late March. As part of the REFOI, existing employees will maintain their employment status as part of an operational transition and will be offered an incentive plan to remain with Swans throughout the process.

 

“We are open to a range of partnership options, but we remain committed to our valued employees and have made it known to them that they are key to the future success of the operation,” says Kuran.

 

The Lantern District, a moniker referencing the area's lanterns and colourful night lighting, has become an increasingly popular residential node in downtown Victoria's Old Town with the recent completion of the Janion micro-loft development, the Union condominiums, and soon to welcome its new residents, the 595 Pandora condominium project nearing completion just steps away from Swans. C