CUB launches Brisbane clubhouse, eyes AUD $200 billion Olympics

The Club of United Business (CUB) is launching a new clubhouse in Brisbane's central business district in a move aimed at helping Queensland businesses capitalise on the estimated AUD $200 billion opportunity presented by the 2032 Olympic Games. The opening marks the group's first expansion into Queensland, following their success in Sydney and Melbourne.

Daniel Hakim, CUB's founder and CEO, spoke positively about the expansion, highlighting the thriving nature of Queensland's business community. "Choosing to bring CUB to Brisbane was a no-brainer, given the strength of the local business market," Mr Hakim stated. He further elaborated on the motivations behind the move, noting that the decision was driven by the opportunities and demand from local business owners.

Hakim emphasized the importance of networking, particularly in the current economic climate. "As business owners, the most important thing we can do is surround ourselves with others on the same path, especially in uncertain economic times. After COVID, networking is cool again and is back with a vengeance," he said.

In the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, Mr Hakim sees a wealth of opportunities for local businesses, stemming from extensive government procurement. "The 2032 Brisbane Olympics means there's an incredible pipeline of business opportunities on the way, with AUD $200 billion in Queensland Government procurement coming in the lead up to the Games," he mentioned. He also expressed CUB's commitment to helping businesses make the most of these opportunities and ensuring the Olympics leaves a positive legacy.

Hakim warned that many host cities fail to fully leverage the opportunities provided by the Olympics. "We want to ensure the benefits continue in the years after the Games by helping businesses connect and grow," he said. The new clubhouse on Mary Street aims to be a luxury venue where businesses can come together to connect and understand the local capabilities, enhancing their chances to contribute to and benefit from the Olympic preparations.

Brisbane's economic landscape promises more than just Olympic opportunities. Mr Hakim pointed out that the city's population is expected to reach 3 million by 2032, and it is becoming an emerging tech hub for the Asia-Pacific region. "Brisbane is also an emerging tech hub for the Asia-Pacific Region, with a host of start-ups leveraging the city's university and research sectors to boost their development," he said. Other areas of significant investment include transport infrastructure, the Green Economy, tourism and cultural facilities, healthcare, and agribusiness.

CUB's expansion is seen as a strategic initiative to support the business ecosystem in Brisbane. Mark Bouris, a prominent backer of CUB, reinforced the inclusive nature of the club while articulating its objectives. "CUB membership does not discriminate based on gender or status," Mr Bouris said. "We are actively seeking to change the leadership landscape by providing a community that represents the modern and diverse faces of Australian business," he added.

Mr Bouris encouraged all successful businesspeople to join the club and become part of a growing network of entrepreneurs and innovators. "CUB encourages all business leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators to join and take part in reshaping Australia's future leadership communities," he stated. He pointed out that the club's membership has grown to over 2,000 accomplished business owners, including leaders from some of Australia's most dynamic businesses.

The new clubhouse in Brisbane is expected to provide local businesses with significant networking opportunities and the chance to collaborate on numerous forthcoming projects, ensuring they are well-placed to benefit from the upcoming decade of growth and investment leading up to and beyond the 2032 Olympics.