Bottle Shops & Liquor Store for Sale in Melbourne, VIC

Union Electric isn't the sort of venue you stumble across by accident. Hidden behind a moss-green door in Heffernan Lane, right in the heart of Melbourne's Chinatown, it's one of those rare bars that people actively seek out. Since opening in 2015, it has earned a reputation as one of the city's most iconic laneway venues, combining exceptional design, an outstanding drinks offering, and consistently strong trading.

The vendors transformed the building by stripping the walls back to reveal the original heritage brickwork and century-old timber rafters, complete with hand-forged blacksmith's nails. Rather than hiding the building's history, they celebrated it, adding a striking steel gantry suspended above the main bar and supported by nine industrial pillars. The result is a venue full of character that pays homage to the building's former life as the Union Electric Lighting Company.

The venue offers two distinct experiences. Downstairs, the Bill Murray speakeasy features exposed brick walls, Edison lighting, an impressive rum selection, and relaxed open-plan seating that flows through bifold doors to the courtyard. Upstairs, is a completely different atmosphere, an airy rooftop parlour with umbrellas, its own gin bar, and views across the laneway below. Each level is fully self-contained with its own amenities, including toilets and storage areas. There is no kitchen, and the venue itself presents in outstanding condition with nothing further to spend.

Union Electric operates under an On Premises Liquor Licence until 1.00am with a capacity of 100 patrons. The lease has ten years remaining (5 + 5), while the rent is $2,570 per week including GST There are no supplier or equipment contracts to assume, and the sale includes an extensive asset register.

Built from the ground up by the current vendors, Union Electric has become one of Melbourne's benchmark cocktail venues. It enjoys consistent patronage throughout the week, regardless of season or weather, and is supported by a loyal customer base, an enviable reputation, and excellent financial performance. The business generates strong, proven profits and would make an outstanding acquisition for an experienced operator or hospitality group seeking to add an immediately profitable, highly regarded venue to their portfolio. The vendors are seeking offers in the vicinity of $800,000. Demonstrating their confidence in the continued success of the business, they are also prepared to consider vendor finance for this exclusively listed venue.