Checking In – The Hotel Owner Podcast

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Today’s news in brief – 29/5/24

EasyHotel has bolstered its financial position with a £42.5m loan from Santander UK and an additional £6m loan from BRED Banque. The Santander loan, which replaces a previous agreement and includes a £7.5m increase, will support low-carbon investments such as heat pumps and smart metering systems, along with refurbishing the Glasgow hotel. Similar eco-friendly initiatives will be implemented across nine hotels in France, Belgium, Spain, and the Netherlands. The BRED Banque loan will fund a new 110-room hotel in Marseille, featuring a low-carbon design. This expansion is part of EasyHotel’s robust pipeline for growth, anticipating 120 new hotels over the next four years. The company reported a 35% increase in revenue for owned and leased hotels in 2023, with total revenue exceeding €100m (£85m) for the first time.

Glenfinnan House Hotel has reopened following extensive renovations. The 18th-century hotel now features modernised bedrooms, a new bar and restaurant, and a rural space with a BBQ area on Loch Shiel’s shores. Managed by Inverlochy Castle Management International (ICMI) in partnership with the MacFarlane family, the hotel aims to attract global visitors by offering local food, drink, and Highland nature experiences. Jane MacFarlane expressed excitement about welcoming guests back, highlighting the surge in tourism in the Scottish Highlands. Norbert Lieder, ICMI’s managing director, emphasised the high standards and excellent customer service that guests can expect.

The Port of Milford Haven has purchased St Brides Spa Hotel in Saundersfoot, with The Celtic Collection managing the property. This acquisition is part of the Port’s strategy to diversify its revenue streams and reduce dependency on the oil and gas sector. The transition to new ownership will be seamless, with all current staff retaining their jobs. Tom Sawyer, CEO of the Port, noted that this investment would promote Saundersfoot and contribute to Pembrokeshire’s goal of becoming a top UK destination. Ian Edwards, CEO of The Celtic Collection, expressed enthusiasm about expanding their partnership with the Port and enhancing the hotel’s prestigious reputation.

Driftwood, a luxury guest house in Rhosneigr, Anglesey, has been named among the top 10% of hotels worldwide by Tripadvisor’s 2024 Traveller’s Choice Awards. Since taking over in December 2022, owners Matthew Bullas and Katherine Owen have focused on providing exceptional experiences, earning consistently high reviews. Driftwood offers a variety of guest accommodations, including family and dog-friendly rooms, and a self-catered lodge. Located in a village rich with activities and attractions, Driftwood provides a luxurious base for exploring Anglesey. The owners are honoured by the recognition and proud of their team’s dedication.

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