In recent years, the concept of combining artistic expression with a social atmosphere has taken Australia by storm, with paint-and-sip studios popping up in cities and towns across the country.

A beloved company in this niche has been at the forefront of this trend, offering a unique experience where friends and family gather to unleash their inner artists over a glass of wine or two.

However, the latest news has left many fans of the franchise with a brushstroke of concern.

Pinot & Picasso, known for its vibrant and engaging art sessions, has hit a rough patch as its parent companies, Veuve Ventures Pty Ltd and its subsidiaries, have entered voluntary administration.

Currently, there are over 40 Pinot & Picasso studios across Australia, and this development has cast a shadow of uncertainty over the future of seven studios that are directly owned by the parent company.

As of September 12, Salea Advisory has stepped in as the appointed administrator to oversee the process.

Pinot & Picasso’s parent company, Veuve Ventures Pty Ltd, and its subsidiaries have entered voluntary administration, impacting seven studios. Credit: Facebook / Pinot & Picasso Australia

The concept of Pinot & Picasso is simple yet captivating. Participants book a group painting session where they are guided by an instructor to recreate a masterpiece, all while sipping on their favourite beverage.

It's an experience that combines relaxation, creativity, and social interaction, making it a popular choice for those looking to unwind and try something new.

Despite the challenges faced by the company-owned studios, it's important to note that the majority of Pinot & Picasso locations are independently owned and are not affected by the administration.

These studios continue to operate as usual, providing the same delightful experience that customers have come to love.

The administration's decision was not taken lightly. According to a letter from Salea Advisory, the appointment was ‘largely attributable to a reduction in discretionary consumer spending, as Australians and other customers look to tighten entertainment budgets’.

With Australians tightening their belts and cutting back on entertainment expenses, businesses that rely on non-essential spending are feeling the pinch.

Pinot & Picasso venues can be found in Victoria, Western Australia, South Australia, New South Wales, and Queensland.

The impact of the administration is tangible, with approximately 16 full-time staff and 41 casual staff employed across the affected studios.

Regrettably, about seven redundancies have already been made.

However, the administrator, Sule Arnautovic, committed, ‘I am moving as quickly as possible to preserve as much of the business and as many jobs.’

‘For current franchisees and customers, I am aiming to reduce the impacts on business operations and ensure the companies’ business continues as consistently as possible through this period.’

Salea Advisory is actively seeking ways to restructure or sell the businesses, with the hope of finding a solution that will allow Pinot & Picasso to continue bringing joy to its patrons.

The fate of the companies will be decided later in the year, leaving many to wonder about the future of their favourite creative night out.

As the popular paint-and-sip studios Pinot & Picasso navigate a period of uncertainty, facing voluntary administration, the broader trend of financial instability in the leisure and entertainment industry becomes evident.

This situation echoes recent troubles in other sectors, such as the home cinema chain Theatre at Home, which has also encountered significant administrative challenges.

The ripple effects of these financial difficulties highlight a growing concern across various entertainment businesses, raising questions about the future of leisure activities and consumer experiences.

Key Takeaways

• Pinot & Picasso's parent company, Veuve Ventures Pty Ltd, and its subsidiaries have entered voluntary administration, affecting seven studios.
• The administration is largely due to a decrease in discretionary consumer spending, impacting Australians' entertainment budgets.
• The administration has resulted in about seven redundancies, with the aim to preserve as much of the business and as many jobs as possible.
• Salea Advisory, the appointed administrator, is seeking to restructure or sell the businesses to decide their future later in the year.

We encourage you to share your experiences at Pinot & Picasso or similar venues. Have you found joy in painting while sipping on a chardonnay? Do you have a favourite piece you've created at one of these sessions?
Let's discuss the importance of supporting local entertainment and creative outlets in the comments below. Your stories and insights are not only valuable to our community but may also shine a light on the significance of these businesses in our lives.

 

[Ezzy]

I believe venues like this are important for people who want to enjoy themselves in company of like minded people without the need to go to a night club with all the loud music.

These are quiet areas where one can gather their thoughts, dab a bit of paint onto some canvas & forget about the work outside for a few hours. Beats going to a gym if that isn't your style.

Twice a week l do mosaics for the company of others. There are a lot of 'serious mosaicers' there but most of us go to do our thing & share with other like minded people. I also do card making twice a month. Most people only do this once a month so there are two different groups of people. The only drawback could be that the two cards l make the first time l also make the second time in the month, but all these things are an outlet for me. I don't drink or smoke & l get away from home for a few hours every week.

 

[Viellarde]

I believe venues like this are important for people who want to enjoy themselves in company of like minded people without the need to go to a night club with all the loud music.

These are quiet areas where one can gather their thoughts, dab a bit of paint onto some canvas & forget about the work outside for a few hours. Beats going to a gym if that isn't your style.

Twice a week l do mosaics for the company of others. There are a lot of 'serious mosaicers' there but most of us go to do our thing & share with other like minded people. I also do card making twice a month. Most people only do this once a month so there are two different groups of people. The only drawback could be that the two cards l make the first time l also make the second time in the month, but all these things are an outlet for me. I don't drink or smoke & l get away from home for a few hours every week.

You are commended for keeping your body and mind connected and active.
I am not artistic but I am a member of various social groups, because I believe it helps my state of mind. My favourite thing though is a few kms walk by myself on the beach or along the local creek, which are both very close to me. Then I go home and 'rest my eyes' for a few minutes.

 

[Ebby]

l would probably accidentally paint myself more but drawing and painting is always something l have wanted to do but must get my cataracts fixed first lol

 

[marni]

Any hobby is a good way to meet people. I am amazed that this was such a business that they go into receivership. Surely anyone could set up a group like this without being a franchise? Just like indoor bowls or table tennis. Utilise your community halls