Today’s news in brief – 2/12/24

Mar Hall Golf and Spa Resort has expanded its food and beverage team with Szilard Szentesi as executive pastry chef and Vicky Black as director of food and beverage. Szentesi, an award-winning chocolatier, aims to elevate the dessert and afternoon tea offerings, while Black oversees operations across the resort. Other key appointments include Jessica McKechnie as pastry chef de partie, Chris Mullen as head mixologist, and Janette Napier as director of sales. The resort plans transformative upgrades by 2025, including redesigned spaces, 30 luxury lodges, and a new spa with outdoor features. General Manager Joe Gallacher highlighted these developments as part of the resort’s commitment to delivering unmatched luxury experiences.

Investment firms KKR and The Baupost Group have acquired 33 Marriott International hotels across the UK from the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority. Managed by Amante Capital, the portfolio includes properties in London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and other cities, with 6,500 rooms catering to business and leisure guests. The venture will continue to enhance the hotels with capital investments. This marks KKR’s second partnership with Marriott in Europe, strengthening its presence in the hospitality sector. Baupost emphasized its focus on high-quality assets, while KKR underlined its commitment to UK real estate, investing over $3.5bn (£2.76bn) since 2016.

Apex City Quay Hotel and Spa earned the “Best Hotel Experience” award at the Scottish Thistle Awards national finals, hosted by VisitScotland. Recognized for its exceptional service, the Dundee-based hotel offers 151 rooms, the Yu Spa, and the Quayside Bar and Grill. General Manager Paul Mooney praised the team’s dedication and hospitality, attributing the win to their hard work and commitment to guest satisfaction.