When it comes to institutions of Irish culchie nightlife, Supermacs and Copper Face Jacks are standalones.

The fast-food chain is the only place to hit at the end of a night in much of rural Ireland while the iconic Harcourt Street venue is a mecca for country folk up in the big smoke. So it's only natural that the owner of one wants to buy the other. Pat McDonagh, founder and owner of Supermacs, has signalled his interest in buying Coppers. Pat clearly knows his market and understands that the nightclub is of real cultural significance to lots of Irish people. "It has a special place in a lot of relationships, especially for those from the rural community," he told the Sunday Business Post. It was announced this week that Coppers and the adjoining Jackson Court Hotel, is up for sale. The establishment is believed to have turned over around €5 million last year. It's estimated that it could go for as much as €40 to €50 million. Its owner Cathal Jackson, a former guard, has decided that it's time to retire. “It is now time to hand over the reins to new owners who have the energy and the expertise to take Coppers to the next level," he said. As well as Supermacs, Pat McDonagh already owns a number of hotels including The Killeshin Hotel in Portlaoise, the Charleville Park Hotel in Cork and the Castletroy Park Hotel, Limerick.