When you invest in Uber and Twitter in the seed stages, you’re pretty dialed in. But when you continue to make unicorns, you’re more than a one-hit-wonder investor. So, when Ashton Kutcher gets into the Soho House investment, you know it’s something to watch.
About Soho House
Even if you don’t know much about the very chic and oh-so-hush-hush world of private members’ clubs, you know about Soho House. The world-famous chain of private clubs, which has 46 locations spread over three continents, is the preferred meeting place of top-shelf A-listers all over the world. In fact, the location on Dean Street in London is where Prince Harry and Megan Markle had their very first date.
Soho Houses Around the World
Every single one of the Soho House locations in Europe, Asia, and North America are close to perfection. The decor is always impeccable and the amenities never disappoint. The clubs are where you relax, stay, have a drink and a meal, have a spa day, or hit the gym. It’s near impossible to choose, but if we had to pick a favorite among the 46 locations, we’d go for the one in Stockholm. The private club is set up in an old Methodist church and it makes for a very special atmosphere. The Mumbai iteration is a very close second, however.
Soho House’s Reputational and Financial Troubles
Despite the fact that it’s been frequented by the rich and famous since the launch of its first location in London in 1995, and although the membership fee runs in the many thousands of dollars, the brand has been experiencing some financial hardships recently. Rumor has it that it’s because it has lost the allure of exclusivity, turning off big spenders. Whether that’s true or not, we can’t say. What we can say, however, is that since it’s been made public and listed on the New York Stock Exchange in 2021, the value of its shares has plummeted.
Saved by Ashton Kutcher?
But a knight in shining armor in the shape of Ashton Kutcher has swooped in to save the brand. Well, it’s actually a consortium led by MCR Hotels that’s trying to pull Soho House out of the weeds by purchasing it for $2.7 billion — but Ashton is joining the board of the company. And now that the Soho House has a Hollywood star-turned shrewd investor at the helm, it might get its original sheen back, and things might turn out okay. Here’s to hoping.
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FAQs
Q: How many Soho House locations are there around the world?
A: There are 46 locations in total.
Q: What is the original Soho House?
A: The first-ever location was (and still is) on 40 Greek Street in London.
Q: How much did MCR Hotels buy Soho House for?
A: MCR Hotels bought the brand for $2.7 billion.