Roadchef to open new Super 8 hotel

Roadchef, the Motorway Service Area (MSA) operator, has announced it will be launching the UK’s second Super 8 by Wyndham hotel at its Durham motorway services located on the A1(M) in spring 2024.

The new hotel will open on the back of the global brand’s successful launch in the UK last year and will continue the multi-million-pound investment Roadchef has committed to in upgrading its roadside hotels to “better meet the needs of guests travelling up and down the country during long journeys”.

Alongside this, the hotel group revealed the first Super 8 by Wyndham hotel at Roadchef’s Chester MSA has recently achieved the highest level possible in global hotel company Wyndham’s Green Certification programme, which aims to promote sustainable practices at its 9,000-plus hotels around the world.

After opening last July, the Roadchef-run hotel has received Level 5 Expert status – making it one of the most sustainable in Wyndham’s portfolio. Through its Green Certification programme, Wyndham has rewarded Roadchef’s effort to reduce the environmental footprint of the Super 8 by Wyndham Chester East hotel, through energy and water conservation, waste diversion and operational efficiency, as well as guest and employee education and engagement.

The areas where Roadchef surpassed expectations to achieve Level 5 Expert status comprised of:

• Single-use plastic minimisation programme – to reduce the amount of single use plastic entering the waste streams.

• Energy efficient appliance-equipment – to reduce energy and save money through optimised energy performance and reduction of environmental impact through the use of high efficiency products.

• Water efficient fixtures – to reduce water consumption from flush fixtures.

• Green housekeeping programme – to minimise adverse effects on human health and the environment associated with the housekeeping cleaning process.

• Making spaces for wildlife – partnership with Vivara to create wildlife-friendly habitats on site to promote wildlife diversity and create greater biodiversity on UK roadsides.

• EV charging – providing on-site EV charging facilities to allow guests to charge their vehicles overnight at an inclusive and affordable price.

Commenting on Roadchef’s achievement, Mark Fox, CEO at Roadchef, said: “It brings us immense pride that Super 8 by Wyndham Chester East has attained Level 5 Expert status of the Wyndham Green certification programme. This achievement speaks volumes about Roadchef’s dedication and leadership in driving sustainable practices within our organisation.

“Last year’s introduction of the first ever Super 8 by Wyndham in the UK marked a pivotal moment in enhancing and reshaping the roadside hotel experience. And this outstanding achievement demonstrates our commitment to making Britain’s journey to be safer and greener. We’re very excited to unveil the UK’s second Super 8 by Wyndham in the spring, all whilst steadfastly investing in ensuring our guests’ satisfaction.”

Dimitris Manikis, president Europe, Middle East, Eurasia and Africa at Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, added: “In response to the evolving preferences and needs of today’s commuters and road warriors seeking a high-quality yet budget-friendly experience, Super 8 by Wyndham stands out as the ideal choice. 

“We are delighted to welcome the Super 8 by Wyndham Durham, with trusted partner Roadchef, who shares our vision for growth and commitment to sustainability. As the world’s largest hotel franchisor, this strategic collaboration is complemented with Wyndham’s unmatched scale and resources, and we look forward to enhancing roadside hotel experiences in the Northeast of England.”