Today’s news in brief – 11/6/24
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group aims to install food waste technology across all its hotels by the end of 2025. This move underlines the group’s commitment to sustainability in the luxury hospitality sector. Utilising Winnow’s AI technology, the group has already achieved a 36% reduction in food waste in pilot hotels located in Hong Kong, London, Miami, and Dubai. The broader goal is to halve waste intensity by 2030. The initiative will build on current efforts, including educational campaigns for workers, overhauling buffet operations, donating excess food, and innovative composting programs. With 26 Michelin Stars among its restaurants, Mandarin Oriental also plans to leverage its chefs’ creativity to raise awareness about food waste. The integration of this technology across all 40 hotels is seen as a bold step in reducing ecological impact and reinforcing the group’s leadership in sustainability.
Wyck Hill House Hotel, an 18th-century Grade II-listed country house in Gloucestershire, is for sale at a guide price of £10m. Set in 42 acres of Cotswolds countryside, the hotel features 59 bedrooms and spa facilities, with consented planning permission for external alterations and refurbishment of the main building, the Coach House, and the Orangery. The sale offers an opportunity to transform the hotel into a premier destination in a highly desirable location. Ed Bellfield of Christie and Co highlights the property’s unique appeal and potential for development, while James Greenslade of Savills expects strong interest due to its scale, location, and proximity to popular Cotswold villages.
The Ned London has partnered with the University of Gloucestershire to offer a degree-level apprenticeship in hospitality management. This programme, the first of its kind accredited by the Institute of Hospitality, allows employees to earn a BA (Hons) in Applied Hospitality Management while working. Apprentices will gain practical management skills and experience at The Ned, with lectures delivered on-site. The Ned, housed in a historic building with extensive amenities, sees this partnership as a way to upskill staff and attract new talent. The University of Gloucestershire, which offers various degree apprenticeships, is supporting the recruitment of apprentices for the program starting in September 2024.
The Balmoral Group is set to acquire the Marcliffe Hotel and Spa in Aberdeenshire, currently owned by the Spence family. The transition will ensure continuity and stability, with no changes to staffing or existing bookings. Balmoral Group plans a significant initial investment to modernise the hotel’s systems and suites, continuing the ongoing refurbishment programme. Sir Jim Milne of Balmoral Group emphasises maintaining the hotel’s quality and standards while supporting the Aberdeen community. Ross Spence of the Marcliffe family believes Balmoral will honour the hotel’s heritage and ensure its prosperity for future generations.
