Justin Hemmes to shout staff a $1m party — and he’ll close his Merivale venues so they can all celebrate

LOOKS like Sydney has a contender for the title of “world’s best boss”. Hospitality king Justin Hemmes, who expanded his hotel empire to the tune of about $100 million in 2017, is set to mark a record year in style, with staff party for the ages.

LOOKS like Sydney has a contender for the title of “world’s best boss”.

Hospitality king Justin Hemmes, who expanded his hotel empire to the tune of about $100 million in 2017, is set to mark a record year in style, with staff party for the ages.

Hemmes, who first began throwing lavish employee Christmas bashes back in 2011, will raise the bar to new heights next month with a love-themed soiree set to cost a cool $1 million.

And to ensure all employees can enjoy the free bash Hemmes will shut all 49 Merivale venues for the day, using only subcontracted events employees to service the 3000-plus partygoers.

Is Justin Hemmes the best boss ever? Picture: Tim Hunter

The February festivities, to be held at a secret outdoor location, will feature carnival rides, free-flowing food and alcohol, live music and DJs and will be held over a full day and night with the tab running at about $330 per head.

The party comes on the back of a spectacular year for the bar entrepreneur who snapped up 10 new venues. He has also flagged his intention to expand into the US in the coming year.

“This is our own little festival,” said Hemmes, who will transport staff to and from the event, also at the cost of the company.

“It is the biggest one we’ve had but that’s mainly because we have more employees than we’ve ever had.

“I just want everyone to have a good time so all the venues will be shut and our events company will do the catering.”

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He recently purchased the Royal Bondi Hotel for up to $30 million. Picture: Troy Snook/News Corp Australia

It’s understood a big-name Australian music act is in line for the event which has hosted local and overseas bands in the past, including electro duo Flight Facilities.

The extravagant party is not to be confused with the company’s annual midyear black-tie awards night, the Merivales, at which employees are recognised with gold trophies for various achievements in service.

“Those are like our Logies,” Hemmes says.

“This is just a party.”