Today’s news in brief – 20/11/24
The Devonshire Group has acquired the Premier Inn Chesterfield West and Highwayman Beefeater restaurant in Eastmoor, near the Peak District National Park, for an undisclosed sum. The 25-room hotel and restaurant employ 28 staff who will remain under the new ownership. The Devonshire Group plans to develop a new vision for the site while maintaining its current name. The acquisition aligns with the group’s strategy to support local communities and boost regional tourism. The company already operates several hospitality businesses on the Chatsworth Estate and owns the nearby Peak Village shopping centre. Group directors expressed enthusiasm for enhancing the site’s appeal and furthering its economic impact.
BWH Hotels, the British branch of the global brand encompassing Best Western and World Hotels, has announced an ambitious five-year plan to add 100 hotels and 8,000 rooms to its GB portfolio, targeting key northern cities. This growth builds on 2024 milestones, including the launch of its first long-stay property, Liverpool Dockside Aparthotel. BWH aims to attract independent hoteliers by offering partnerships that support growth while preserving hotel individuality. The brand highlights its refreshed identity and commitment to providing value amid economic challenges. Robert Alley, brand director, emphasised the opportunities for independent hotels to benefit from global reach without compromising their character.
Criterion Capital has acquired One Princes Street in London to expand its Zedwell hotel brand, known for its sleep-focused, carbon-conscious design. The Grade II-listed building, designed by Sir Edwin Cooper in 1931, will be adapted into a Zedwell hotel while preserving its historical features. Zedwell aims to open 8,500 rooms by 2027 in major cities like Manchester and Edinburgh. Criterion Capital envisions the project as a blend of heritage, culture, and innovation, creating serene spaces in bustling urban centres. The acquisition strengthens the company’s portfolio and contributes to revitalising London’s architectural and commercial legacy.
The Queensberry Hotel in Bath has appointed Oliver Harris as its new manager. Harris, an accomplished hospitality professional with experience at elite establishments like Whatley Manor Hotel, brings expertise in service excellence and sustainability. His career achievements include developing graduate programs and winning accolades such as the Acorn Award for top hospitality professionals under 30. Harris joins the multi-award-winning hotel, home to the Michelin Star Olive Tree restaurant, with a commitment to upholding its distinctive character and quality. Owners Laurence and Helen Beere praised Harris’s passion and leadership, calling him an ideal fit for the boutique Georgian townhouse property.
