NEHA unveils location of this year’s Excellence Awards

The North East Hotels Association (NEHA) has announced its ball is to be held at the Federation Brewery this year, after the membership numbers have increased considerably in the last 12 months. NEHA serves as a vital organisation providing invaluable support, guidance, and a sense of community to hoteliers and businesses connected to the hospitality industry. The association presently comprises 64 of the most prominent hotels in the region, serving as the collective voice of the hospitality sector. Its core mission is to advocate for change and question decisions impacting their industry while ensuring their voices are heard. It said it is “committed to simplifying the lives of hoteliers by addressing common challenges encountered in the field”. It is expected that this years’ event, on Sunday 26 October, will see record numbers of up to 500 attendees who are all there to celebrate the best of the best in the hospitality industry. The organisation annually celebrates industry achievements through the Excellence Awards, recognising outstanding contributors at a grand black-tie gala. Guests on the night will be treated to a three-course dinner and live music. In collaboration with key regional sponsors, the gala spotlights exceptional individuals in 10 categories, presenting awards to those who have demonstrated excellence despite formidable challenges and celebrates their successes. Their objective is to seek out exceptional individuals who have gone the extra mile in delivering outstanding service. Anna Wadcock, general manager of the Maldron Hotel and affiliated with NEHA, said: “Our dedicated staff have admirably achieved so much again this year and shown that the hospitality industry is one to be celebrated. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our members and sponsors for their unwavering support over the years. “This year's Excellence Awards Ball promises to be an exceptional evening for all, and we hope that the event continues to grow over future years.” With the hospitality and tourism industries being the fourth largest employer in the region, NEHA aims to encourage individuals into these professions and make people realise that in them, they can have good, fulfilling careers. The hospitality industry significantly impacts the regional economy, boasting over 5,350 bedrooms and an expenditure of £78m on goods and services. Hotel revenue alone exceeds £205m, contributing to an estimated economic footprint of £632m. Wadcock concluded: “In an industry that employs over 3,400 staff and indirectly influences around 11,400 jobs in the region, we invite more hoteliers to consider joining NEHA to ensure their voices are heard and celebrate the success of the profession.”