Today’s news in brief – 9/9/24
Accor has announced the appointments of Benoît Racle and Jean-Yves Minet as global brand presidents for its Premium and Midscale and Economy (PM&E) brands, respectively. Racle, with over two decades of experience, will oversee the strategic direction and growth of Accor’s premium brands, including Pullman, Swissôtel, and Mövenpick. In 2023, Accor tripled Premium brand signings, with plans to expand its flagship and other premium hotels globally. Racle aims to elevate these brands by enhancing guest experiences and focusing on strategic market growth. Minet, bringing 25 years of experience, will lead the vision for Accor’s economy and midscale brands like ibis and Novotel. His focus is on fostering brand growth, innovation, and enhancing value for global travellers. Accor’s PM&E division represents 90% of its global portfolio, encompassing over 5,000 hotels across 100+ countries.
Hotel Indigo Exeter has appointed Mahesh Jay as its new general manager. Jay brings 26 years of experience in the hospitality industry, having held leadership positions in hotels like Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel and DoubleTree by Hilton. At Hotel Indigo, Jay will focus on refining guest experiences, expanding market presence, and fostering community engagement. His leadership will also emphasise partnerships with local businesses and farmers to enhance the hotel’s culinary offerings. Additionally, Jay is committed to supporting Focus Hotels’ initiatives, such as fundraising for the Alzheimer’s Society, as he steers the hotel toward growth and greater community impact.
Staycity has opened Wilde Liverpool Street, a new aparthotel in Petticoat Lane. The hotel features 106 apartments with various room types, including the Wilde Residence, offering private balconies and terraces. The property also houses a curved feature bar adorned with handmade terracotta tiles and a coffee shop serving barista-made coffee. Kelly Morgan, managing director of Wilde Aparthotels, highlighted the hotel’s local design inspiration and its commitment to supporting local suppliers and artists. Located in the vibrant East End, Wilde Liverpool Street aims to attract both leisure and business travellers, offering access to travel hubs and the famous Sunday market.
Dalata has launched a share buy-back programme worth up to €30m (£25.3m), aimed at reducing its share capital. The programme comes after the company reported a 6% revenue increase in the first half of the year, although pre-tax profits dropped by 15% to €35.8m (£30.2m). The buy-back will be carried out on Euronext Dublin, with repurchased shares subsequently cancelled.
