UPDATE: Jo Horgan, the visionary founder of Mecca, has just been named Melburnian of the Year, a prestigious honor reflecting the profound impact her beauty empire has had on Melbourne. This recognition comes shortly after the grand opening of Mecca’s flagship three-storey store in the bustling Bourke Street Mall in August, attracting between 50,000 to 70,000 visitors weekly.
Horgan expressed her gratitude, calling the accolade an “extraordinary honour,” especially when considering past recipients who have significantly shaped Melbourne. Alongside her husband, Pete Wetenhall, co-chief executive of Mecca, Horgan has transformed a single store on Toorak Road into Australia’s largest cosmetics retailer, boasting 110 locations across Australia and New Zealand and employing over 7,000 people.
“Melbourne has everything – it’s the home of art, culture, beauty, fashion, and inspiration,” Horgan stated. The couple chose to establish their business in Melbourne to create the world’s largest beauty destination, which they now proudly call their home.
Despite challenges, including going over budget and behind schedule during the flagship store’s transformation from the former David Jones menswear store, Horgan described the project as “the nightmare of our dreams.” However, the risk has paid off spectacularly, with the new store quickly becoming a central hub of beauty in Melbourne.
Lord Mayor Nick Reece emphasized the significance of honoring Horgan, noting that the award diverges from previous recognitions typically given to charitable figures. “It’s been a while since a business leader has won the Melbourne award, which is a great change,” he remarked. Reece described the flagship store’s opening as a “magic moment for Melbourne,” calling it a vital boost for the city during challenging times.
Horgan is not the only one being celebrated this evening. The Melbourne Awards also recognized Dr. Belle Lim, a trailblazing cancer genetics researcher, as Young Melburnian of the Year, alongside the Melbourne Place Hotel, which received the city design award.
As excitement builds around Horgan’s achievements and the future of Mecca, the impact on the Melbourne community is profound. The recognition signals a shift in acknowledging business leaders who contribute to the city’s vibrant culture and economy.
In a heartfelt conclusion, Horgan reflected on her journey, stating, “To see our collective vision come to life… to see how people have embraced every aspect of it, is phenomenal.”
For the latest updates on Melbourne’s influential figures and developments, stay tuned.
