Swillhouse CEO and founder releases apology after SMH allegations
Swillhouse CEO and founder Anton Forte has said his company 'messed up' after explosive allegations made by the Sydney Morning Herald.
The SMH revealed allegations of rape, drug use and sex competitions among staff, which came to light last month. It was reported that five female former staff allege the company, which owns six high-profile venues across Sydney including Le Foote restaurant in the Rocks and CBD whisky bar the Baxter Inn, failed to support them after they reported allegations of sexual abuse and harassment by male employees.
While Forte is not personally accused of any wrongdoing, he used Instagram to release a video apology for the failings of his business.
Swillhouse, which owns, has been rocked by allegations made by staff which first came to light last month.
“We wanted to create a culture of openness, generosity and respect but along the way we messed up,' Forte said.
“It's heartbreaking to know that people were unsupported, unheard and let down.
'I'm deeply sorry for that.”
Forte said the allegations were 'far-reaching' and 'reflect a period of time where our business wasn't as sophisticated as it is now’, but 'we don't take them lightly and we respect people's experiences and their need to share their stories publicly'.
“We've heard you; we are listening and we are accountable,” he said.
Forte admitted, that despite changes to HR practices and culture, the business needs to do better.
“This week we have brought in three outstanding independent experts in hospitality culture and leadership, workplace health and safety to advise us on how to work differently, to work better.
“We are putting every aspect of our operations under the spotlight because we want to identify where, what and how we need to change.”
Forte said he wanted to make positive, lasting change.
“We will get through this and emerge as better versions of ourselves, of Swillhouse, and we won't let anyone down again,” he said.
Following the allegations, Forte stepped down from the board of the Australian Restaurant and Cafe Association.
Jonathan Jackson, 9th September 2024
