Ewan Venters to step down as Artfarm CEO

Ewan Venters is to step down as chief executive of the Artfarm hospitality group.

As first reported by the Sunday Times, the former Fortnum & Mason boss will leave the business in January or sooner if a replacement is found.

Artfarm was founded in 2014 by Iwan and Manuela Wirth, the Swiss art dealers behind Hauser & Wirth. Venters joined the business in January 2021 with a focus on running the hospitality arm.

His tenure has seen Artfarm buy London’s Groucho Club for a reported £40m and begin development of its first private members’ club outside of the capital in Yorkshire, which is due to open in 2026.

The Sunday Times reports Artfarm has come under pressure from Groucho members over concerns the club was becoming overly “corporate”.

However, other insiders told the paper Artfarm’s management had improved the food quality and interior décor of the club.

Venters said: "It has been an incredible experience to work with the teams at Artfarm and Hauser & Wirth during a period of considerable growth for both businesses. As I step down to pursue new opportunities, I look forward to seeing their future achievements."

Artfarm’s portfolio includes the Fife Arms in Braemer, Mount St Restaurant in London’s Mayfair, and the newly launched Da Costa in Bruton.

Artfarm has been contacted for comment.