Today’s news in brief – 6/12/24

Hotel du Vin Edinburgh has announced a £1.2m refurbishment led by designer Anita Rosato, aiming to enhance guest experiences while prioritizing sustainability. The renovation respects the building’s historical architecture and includes energy-efficient upgrades, such as replacing gas appliances with electric alternatives in the kitchen. Guestroom designs reflect Edinburgh’s natural landscapes and Scottish heritage, incorporating motifs like thistles and stags. General manager Ben Bel highlighted the project’s focus on blending the building’s historical significance with modern efficiency. Rosato described the transformation as both complex and rewarding, ensuring a sustainable and elegant redesign.

Leonardo Hotels UK and Ireland won the ‘Best Large Employer’ award at the Shaw Trust Disability Power 100 Awards for fostering inclusivity and accessibility. The accolade recognizes organizations creating flexible opportunities for disabled employees and building supportive workplace cultures. Julieann Brennan, head of HR, emphasized their commitment to inclusivity and empowering disabled team members. The Power 100 celebrates disabled role models and challenges societal perceptions, with Head Alona De Havilland calling it a rallying cry for employers to recognize the talents of disabled individuals across all sectors.

Hilton is set to debut in Moldova with the reconstruction of the historic Dacia Hotel in Chisinau, transforming it into a Hilton Garden Inn. The €5m (£4.15m) initial investment will modernize the building to meet Hilton standards, with projections reaching €10–12m (£8.3-10m) by 2026. The project will create local job opportunities and elevate Moldova’s hospitality standards. Natalia Bejan of Invest Moldova Agency sees this as a milestone for the country’s tourism and economic growth, signaling its potential as an emerging travel destination.