Our Story

1910

Our founder Mr Fred Herz was born in Czechoslovakia.

1939-1945

World War II - Mr Fred Herz fled Czechoslovakia to join the English backed Czech Army and was sent to Palestine as a quartermaster.

In the army, the quartermaster is responsible for acquiring and distributing the correct quantities of supplies to army personnel.

An army quartermasters’ procurement varies to all kinds of supplies, like weapons, fuel, provisions, clothing, water. Even kitchenware, crockery, and glassware for use in military mess halls and dining facilities.

1945

After the war Mr Fred Herz returned to Czechoslovakia. However, the rise of communism in the area saw him immigrate to Australia.

Mr Fred Herz started his career in Melbourne Australia as a professional waiter at the Savoy Plaza Hotel on Spencer Street.

1946

During this time Australia had its largest influx of immigration. There were widespread shortages of day-to-day necessities and notably in his line of work hospitality equipment.

Drawing upon his knowledge as an army quartermaster Mr Fred Herz was able to source hotel supplies for his workplace.

1947 – Hotel Agencies

Recognising the special needs and difficulties experienced by those in the Hospitality Industry.

This eventually led to the establishment of a small operation located in Rankins Lane in the Melbourne central business district called Hotel Agencies.

During his 29 years of operation, Mr Fred Herz prided himself on providing a high degree of personalised service to his vast clientele.

The name was chosen by Mr Fred Herz as the company was foremost a supplier to Melbourne’s Hotel industry with the Agencies (brands) he imported from overseas.

1976

In 1976 Carl and Souraya Bacash purchased Hotel Agencies. Continuing, and enhancing the tradition of service established by Mr Fred Herz.

During the mid-70’s and 80’s, Melbourne’s Hospitality industry flourished due to the vast and varied cultural background of its people, and the City of Melbourne gained considerable worldwide notoriety for its excellence in international cuisine.

Ethnic origins and 34 years of experience as a restauranteur, provided Mr Carl Bacash Senior with an intimate knowledge of the needs and requirements of those working in the Hospitality Industry.

1978 - 1984

• 1978 - Hotel Agencies moves to 6 Alexandra Parade Fitzroy
• 1980 - Hotel Agencies moves to 302 Nicholson Street Fitzroy

1982

• 1982 - Mr Carl Bacash Senior’s son Michael Bacash joins the family business

1984

• 1984 - Hotel Agencies purchases and settled in its current location 298 Nicholson Street Fitzroy

1984 - 2007

• During this period Hotel Agencies experienced it's largest growth in its history.
• Cementing the company as the largest and number one destination for hospitality supplies in Victoria.

2007

Hotel Agencies Celebrates 60 years of service to the Hospitality Industry

2017

Hotel Agencies Celebrates 70 years of service to the Hospitality Industry

2018

Michael Bacash’s son Carl Bacash joins the family business.

2022

Hotel Agencies celebrates 75 years of service to the hospitality industry and is ideally positioned to maintain its long-standing tradition of service to you, through the Bacash Family.