Two of the country’s largest pub groups, which between them own landmark bars such as Cafe en Seine and Whelan’s, are to join forces in a multi-million euro merger.

The Frank Gleeson-owned Mercantile Group, which runs a number of bars and restaurants including The Green Hen, Marcel’s, Opium, Pichet, East Side Tavern, Whelans, and Le Petit Parisien, is to merge with the Capital Bars Group, which owns the George, Cafe en Seine, Howl at the Moon pubs and the Soder + Ko restaurant.

The enlarged group, to be led by Frank Gleeson will be known as the Mercantile Group. The new company will employ 600 people and have revenues of approximately €40 million per annum.