Today’s news in brief – 22/11/24

Victoria Rickett has been named director of spa and wellbeing at Grantley Hall, a five-star luxury hotel. With over 15 years of experience, including roles at Rockliffe Hall and Swinton Estate, Rickett will lead the award-winning Three Graces Spa, which recently received accolades like “Best Hotel Spa” from Condé Nast Johansens and a “5 Bubble Luxury” rating from the Good Spa Guide. She aims to enhance the spa’s wellness offerings, emphasising cutting-edge treatments and guest experiences. Grantley Hall’s GM, Nuno César de Sá, praised Rickett’s expertise and vision for innovation.

The Gailes Hotel and Spa in Ayrshire has been named ‘Boutique Spa Hotel of the Year’ 2024 by BABTAC and CIBTAC, renowned for their rigorous judging standards. The spa offers over 50 treatments, day packages, and overnight stays, bolstering its reputation as Ayrshire’s top wellness destination. Owner Lee Simpson expressed pride in the accolade, which underscores the hotel’s commitment to excellence. Expansion plans include a £3m sea-view spa at The Waterside Hotel, slated for spring 2025.

Whitbread PLC, owner of Premier Inn, has appointed Sam Murphy as project and programme manager for its London developments. Murphy, with 18 years of experience, will oversee new hotel projects in the capital and south-east, including a 693-bedroom hub by Premier Inn on The Strand, starting in 2025. This hire marks Whitbread’s fifth addition to its property team in 2024 as the company targets significant growth, planning 125,000 rooms long-term. Simon Lancaster, Whitbread’s head of construction, highlighted London’s growth potential for budget brands and welcomed Murphy’s expertise in delivering major projects.