Soho House to go private in billion dollar deal led by MCR Hotels and Ashton Kutcher

Soho House, the renowned operator of private members’ clubs adored by celebrities and royalty alike, is set to mark the end of its volatile tenure as a public company. The business will be taken private in a deal valued at 1.8 billion dollars, orchestrated by a consortium led by MCR Hotels—Britain’s third-largest hotel owner—and featuring Hollywood actor and technology investor Ashton Kutcher.

The consortium has agreed to acquire outstanding Soho House shares at 9 dollars each, representing an 83 per cent premium to the club’s closing price on 18 December, the day before the offer was announced. Shares soared by 15 per cent in New York trading following the news. Four existing major shareholders, including founder Nick Jones, Yucaipa’s Ron Burkle, restaurateur Richard Caring, and Goldman Sachs Alternatives, will retain their stakes in the company. Apollo Global Management is backing the transaction by providing equity and debt financing.

Chief Executive Andrew Carnie stated in an email to members that the company’s future as a privately held business would allow it to prioritise member experience and foster long-term growth. He highlighted that new backers believe strongly in Soho House’s vision and future prospects, signalling fresh investment and strategic directions.

Tyler Morse, Chief Executive and Chairman of MCR Hotels, will take the role of vice chairman on Soho House’s board. Ashton Kutcher, leader of the consortium’s new capital injection, will also secure a position on the board. Majority control remains with Ron Burkle through his investment firm, Yucaipa, which owns almost half the business. Nick Jones, Soho House’s founder who established the first club in London’s West End in 1995, will continue his involvement with his 6 per cent holding.

Since its initial public float at 14 dollars per share four years ago, Soho House’s shares had only rarely exceeded the listing price. The proliferation of new venues, bringing the portfolio to 46 clubs across global cities such as London, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Miami and Mexico City, has seen membership balloon above 270,000. Critics have questioned whether the group’s expansion threatens the exclusivity and unique character that originally defined it. Along with its eponymous clubs, Soho House operates The Ned hotel in London and the Scorpios beach club in Mykonos.

The decision to go private speaks to a broader ambition. With a cadre of heavyweight investors and a renewed focus on delivering standout experiences to its membership, Soho House is positioning itself for a new era of exclusivity, growth, and international cachet away from the pressures of public markets.