Today’s news in brief – 11/7/24
East Anglian hospitality group Chestnut Group will open The Maltings in Weybourne, North Norfolk, on August 5. The hotel’s three-year restoration draws inspiration from its local history and former uses as a supplier to brewers and an artist’s studio. The renovation includes 28 individually styled rooms across the main house and old stable blocks, and a restaurant called The Grain Store. Founder Philip Turner aims to provide an elevated yet relaxed experience, making the hotel a hub for both locals and visitors. The Grain Store will feature an open kitchen and a menu of classic British fare, emphasising fresh, local ingredients. The hotel also includes The Bottle Shop, selling curated wines.
Donovan Sumner has rejoined Hotel Co 51 as regional director of operations for the UK, after two years at Cycas Hospitality. Sumner will oversee 17 Marriott International-branded hotels, including 15 Moxy hotels. His role involves managing an expanded portfolio with a new cluster general manager approach, where five general managers report directly to him. Sumner expressed enthusiasm about returning to a company with a strong culture of guest satisfaction and sustainability. CEO Wayne Androliakos welcomed Sumner back, highlighting his potential to enhance the team’s performance and sustainability efforts.
A report by Glenigan forecasts a 14% rise in hotel and leisure construction in 2024, following a 23% slump last year. Growth is expected to moderate to 6% in 2025 and 7% in 2026. This increase is driven by a 12% rise in projects gaining detailed planning permission in 2023. Glenigan’s research identifies 2,334 hotel projects set to begin within the next year, with London receiving the majority of new developments. Major projects include the £400m Haymarket House in Westminster and a £250m hotel plan in Lambeth. Outside London, Travelodge plans to build 100 hotels, including a £51.3m conversion project in East London, and 40 hotels in South West England. The North West also sees significant activity, with Premier Inn’s £26m project in Manchester.
DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield City has appointed James McDevitt as general manager, Rahul Mahajan as hotel manager, Michelle Wildman as director of sales, Samantha Naylor as finance controller, and Ciprian Condrea as executive chef. The hotel, located next to Sheffield United Football Club, will feature 155 rooms, meeting and event facilities, a fitness centre, and a restaurant and bar. McDevitt, with a strong background in hospitality, is excited to lead a team with diverse expertise to ensure an exceptional guest experience. The hotel is set to open this summer and aims to become an integral part of the Sheffield community.
