Gilmore Collection Releases Statement On The Future Of The BOB

After over a week of speculation about what is going to happen to Grand Rapids' iconic 'Big Old Building', the building's owners, the Gillmore Collection has released official info on the pending sale of the entertainment venue and concert hall.

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In a statement released on Friday, Gilmore Collection CEO Greg Gilmore says that the sale of the building is 'bittersweet':

Marking 40 years - 25 of which include The B.O.B. - CEO Gregory Gilmore acknowledges it is bittersweet to transition from operating these iconic venues in Grand Rapids. But, he adds, the timing is ideal, as they continue to produce unique, high-quality hospitality experiences in their portfolio, and improve services across the board, including a robust catering division.

But the big question has been, who's buying the BOB and 20 Monroe Live?

Unfortunately, the Gilmore presser doesn't shed any more light on that situation, noting only that the buyers will remain private for now and that the concert venue will continue to operate as such:

The buyers, who remain private, will continue operation of the performing arts portion of the business, which was rebranded...as GLC Live at 20 Monroe. The plans for the B.O.B. have not yet been made public.

Rumors remain about what's happening to the BOB.

The rumors around the venue continue as news of the restaurants and bars closing within the BOB has gotten out.

Rumors online have included a possible downtown casino, a new hotel, and speculation about the new owners.

As West Michigan waits to see what will land at the iconic corner of Ottawa & Fulton, Gilmore says his focus is on the current employees:

We will be able to reallocate assets to many of our other restaurants, which continue to adjust to the shifting demands of the pandemic, and turnover in the industry. We are committed to our 220 employees and are in the process of finding a new home in The Gilmore Collection for their skills and talents.