Today’s news in brief – 26/09/239
The RAD Hotel Group has acquired Ayrshire’s Seamill Hydro Hotel, expanding its portfolio to nine venues. The hotel boasts 84 guest bedrooms, two luxurious suites, and impressive views of the Firth of Clyde and the Arran mountains. The new owners plan to enhance the hotel’s previously released development plans. The Sweeney family, who led Seamill Hydro for over three decades, has decided to pass the torch. The Kyles, RAD Hotel Group owners, assure customers that all bookings and events are secure, with the existing team staying on during the transition.
Freehand Hotels and its Generator brand have appointed Dirk Lobowsky as senior vice president of global sales, aiming to expand further into Asia and the Middle East after a successful year in the UK and US. Generator is a boutique accommodation brand with locations across Europe and the US, while Freehand is a collection of hotels operated by Generator. Lobowsky, with 25 years of experience, will lead sales efforts and strategies.
The Greenbank Hotel in Falmouth, Cornwall, has promoted Matt Garland, who has worked at the hotel for over 18 years, to the role of hotel manager. Garland started as a part-time waiter at age 17 and steadily climbed the ranks, holding various roles, including assistant hotel manager. As the new hotel manager, he will oversee daily operations, staff management, and guest satisfaction. Ben Young, managing director of The Cornwall Hotel Collection, praised Garland’s passion for hospitality and noted his promotion as well-deserved. Garland expressed pride in his role and emphasised the importance of genuine connections with guests and staff in the hospitality industry.
Bristol hoteliers are cautiously optimistic about the future, as Bristol’s overall occupancy rates in August increased to 79.7% compared to 74.4% the previous year. City centre occupancy reached 78.4%, and four-star hotel occupancy rates rose to 81.7%. However, the Bristol Hoteliers Association stressed the importance of events like the International Balloon Fiesta and Harbour Festival in maintaining the city’s appeal. These events contribute significantly to the local hospitality sector and create a vibrant atmosphere in the city, but they are facing challenges due to increasing costs.
