Karl Schlothauer has a clear goal: to reshape how people experience SydneyOs nightlife. A pioneer of the small bar movement, Karl has been instrumental in bringing intimate, design-led venues to life across New South Wales. His portfolio includes Pocket Bar in Terrigal, Stitch Bar in SydneyOs CBD, and multiple venues under the House of Pocket banner.
In 2018, in response to the damaging impact of SydneyOs lockout laws on independent venues, Karl founded the Independent Bars Association of NSW, giving small bar operators a collective voice during a critical period for the industry.
In 2021, Karl co-founded YCK Laneways, now one of SydneyOs most innovative and dynamic nightlife precincts. The precinct has expanded to include 19 diverse members across bars, retail, and hotels and has delivered some of the cityOs most memorable activations. Highlights include Open for Lunch in 2022, which transformed George Street with the YCK FairNfeaturing a 15-metre-tall Ferris wheel.
YCK Laneways also became the first precinct in Australia to receive Purple Flag accreditation, joining a global network of around 90 destinations recognised for excellence in nightlife management.
Karl is a board member of the Night Time Industries Association and contributes to industry and government strategy as an advisor to Investment NSWOs 24-Hour Economy Advisory Group and the City of SydneyOs Business, Economic Development and COVID-19 Recovery Advisory Panel.
