Today’s news in brief – 4/3/24

Andras House, a Belfast-based hotel group, has expanded its portfolio by acquiring the 146-bedroom ETAP Hotel on Belfast’s Dublin Road for £7.35m. The hotel is leased to Accor UK Business and Leisure Hotels Limited for 6.5 years. This acquisition reflects the active hotel sector in Northern Ireland, with high occupancy levels surpassing pre-pandemic figures. CBRE NI facilitated the sale, indicating strong interest in the Northern Irish hotel market.

Lucknam Park Hotel and Spa is introducing new offerings, including the Walled Garden Restaurant and two stone-built cottages, enhancing its guest experience. The restaurant will focus on seasonal dining using local produce, while the cottages offer private gardens for guests. The property also updated its spa facilities. Sakis Dinas, GM of Lucknam Park, expressed excitement about these additions, aiming to exceed guest expectations.

HotelREZ Hotels and Resorts made senior appointments to strengthen its global market presence. Sharon Rubin returned as vice president of product development, along with Kenan Davies and Olav Schuetz joining to expand HotelREZ’s presence in Europe. With over 2,500 properties across 100 countries, HotelREZ aims to connect independent hotels with bookers worldwide, emphasising innovation in hotel technology.

The Fox and Hounds, a pub with rooms in North Yorkshire, is on the market for £1.35m. It offers 10 en-suite bedrooms, a bar, and a restaurant. Planning consents allow for expansion, including new commercial buildings with spa facilities or function spaces, additional camping pods, and guest bedrooms. David Cash from Christie and Co anticipates interest from experienced publicans, hoteliers, and leisure operators due to the property’s potential for growth and its management-run operations.