Cowch Group dessert bar business announce voluntary administration

The future of a dessert favourite is up in the air after going into voluntary administration almost nine years after opening its flagship South Bank location.

Cowch Dessert Bar at South Bank during the Covid-19 lockdown in 2020. (Image/Josh Woning)

The future of a Queensland dessert giant is in doubt after announcing it has gone into voluntary administration almost nine years after opening its flagship location.

Cowch Group – the group behind Cowch Cocktail Dessert Bar’s four venues at South Bank, Broadbeach, Chermside and Mt Gravatt – revealed the decision today as owner Arif Memis posted a heartfelt message to customers on social media.

“Dear valued Cowchies, I write to you today with a heavy heart to inform you of the difficult decision we have made to put the Cowch Group of entities into Voluntary Administration,” the message said.

Cowch owner Arif Memis. Picture Glenn Hampson

“As the founders of Cowch, we have poured our hearts and souls into creating a fun, safe and inclusive space for families to make cherished memories since we first opened our doors in South Bank in 2014.

“Seeing Cowch grow into a beloved brand with multiple venues and a manufacturing business has been an incredible journey, and we could not have done it without the support of our wonderful community.

“However, like many other small businesses, we have been faced with challenges beyond our control, including the COVID-19 pandemic, floods, and ongoing economic difficulties.”

Some of the favourites on offer at Cowch Dessert Cocktail Bar. Picture: Supplied

The message also said Cowch would continue to trade and their doors would remain open despite the decision.

“We are committed to exploring all options to ensure the future success of our business, and we have appointed SV Partners to guide us through the Voluntary Administration process,” the message said.

“We are deeply grateful for your continued support and patronage over the years, and we hope to see you soon in store, creating memorable moments of happiness. Thank you for being part of the Cowch family.

“With warm regards and gratitude, Arif, Havva and Ezel.”

The news also comes almost a year after Mr Memis was considering opening a new location in Cairns.

“Administrators are continuing to trade the business as normal and are hopeful that Cowch’s loyal customer base will continue to support the local family business,” an SV Partners spokesman said.

“An Information Memorandum will be issued at a later date to potential investors and Administrators are optimistic of a positive outcome for all parties.”

Originally published as Cowch Group dessert bar business announce voluntary administration