Today’s news in brief – 16/2/24
Radisson Hotel Group has promoted Suzanne Speak to managing director for the UK and Ireland at Radisson Hotel Group, effective immediately. Speak, who joined the group in 2021, brings 26 years of experience in hotel management to her new role. She has demonstrated exceptional leadership as a cluster general manager, overseeing multiple properties. Speak’s promotion reflects her dedication to excellence and her innovative approach to business. Radisson Hotel Group looks forward to her continued contributions in delivering exceptional service to guests and stakeholders.
Hotel transaction volumes in Scotland soared to £310m in 2023, marking a 98% increase from the previous year. Despite economic challenges, Scotland accounted for approximately 14% of all UK hotel deals, indicating the market’s resilience. Most notably, the Waldorf Astoria in Edinburgh was sold for £85m, contributing significantly to overall volumes. The majority of purchasers were UK investors, with additional capital coming from various international locations. Looking ahead, confidence is expected to return to the market, with several sale processes underway and anticipated hotel openings. Edinburgh, in particular, is poised to remain a top-performing hotel market outside of London in 2024.
The Ullswater Inn, formerly known as the Glenridding Hotel and owned by the Inn Collection Group, has reopened after undergoing a multi-million pound refurbishment. The inn, with a heritage of over 160 years, now features a new pub with rooms. Renovations include expanding the main bar, refurbishing existing bedrooms, and increasing the total number of rooms to 57. The reopening was met with enthusiasm from customers, with a high demand for meals and bookings indicating a positive reception from both locals and visitors to Glenridding.
Hand Picked Hotels has launched a new initiative to boost apprenticeships within the group and the wider hotel industry. Recognising the value of apprenticeships in facilitating on-the-job learning, the initiative encourages individuals to apply for apprenticeships to enhance their careers in hospitality. With a focus on proactive engagement, Hand Picked Hotels encourages candidates to express their interest in specific apprenticeship roles. Currently, the group has apprentices training for various positions, including data analyst, sales, HR, spa therapist, and chartered manager. The initiative reflects the group’s commitment to fostering talent and providing opportunities for career development within the hospitality sector.
