Who Bought Saddlebrook Resort?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re a golf enthusiast or a fan of luxury resorts, you might be wondering who recently bought Saddlebrook Resort. The answer to this question is not straightforward, and it involves a few different parties. So, let’s break it down.

The Background

Saddlebrook Resort is a well-known golf and spa destination in Wesley Chapel, Florida. It features two Arnold Palmer-designed championship courses, 45 tennis courts, and a European-style spa. The resort has been around since the 1980s and has hosted numerous professional golf events.

The Sale

In late 2020, Saddlebrook Resort was put up for sale by its longtime owner Tom Dempsey. The asking price was $62 million. After several months on the market, the property was purchased by Kohlberg & Company, a private equity firm based in New York.

Who is Kohlberg & Company?

Kohlberg & Company is a leading private equity firm that specializes in middle-market investing. The company was founded in 1987 and has since completed over 80 platform investments and nearly 200 add-on acquisitions.

What are their plans for Saddlebrook?

Kohlberg & Company has not yet disclosed its specific plans for Saddlebrook Resort. However, it’s likely that they will continue to operate the property as a luxury destination for golfers and spa-goers.

The Involvement of Tom Dempsey

Even though Tom Dempsey sold Saddlebrook Resort to Kohlberg & Company, he still has some involvement with the property. According to reports, Dempsey will retain ownership of some of the resort’s residential units and will continue to operate them as part of the Saddlebrook community.

Conclusion

In summary, Kohlberg & Company is the new owner of Saddlebrook Resort, a premier golf and spa destination in Florida. While the private equity firm has not yet revealed its specific plans for the property, it’s expected that they will continue to operate it as a luxury resort. Meanwhile, former owner Tom Dempsey will still have some involvement with the resort’s residential units.