Today’s news in brief – 3/01/25

Low Wood Bay Resort and Spa in the North West has completed a £457,000 expansion, enhancing its luxury offerings and creating 10 new jobs. The spa now features an outdoor Upper Deck with an 18-meter infinity pool, private seating, fire pits, and views of Windermere, designed with Mason Gillibrand Architects and Unique Pool Design. The investment aims to elevate the guest experience, now supported by a 45-member team. The resort introduced outdoor thermal spa events, including “Sunset Sessions” with a DJ and “Spa and Strings” with live classical music. Michael Kay, operations director, highlighted the resort’s commitment to integrating the Lake District’s scenery with high-end facilities and hinted at further developments planned for 2025.
Alistair Sandall FIH, former IoH Midlands treasurer, has been named the new executive secretary of the Master Innholders, succeeding Wallace Vincent after an eight-year tenure. Sandall brings decades of hospitality experience, including managerial roles, hotel openings, and a position as head of professional development at the Institute of Hospitality. He is also active in industry boards and committees. Sandall aims to build on Vincent’s legacy, advancing educational initiatives like the Innholder Scholarships and Aspiring Leaders Diploma. James B. Clarke, chair of the Master Innholders, praised Sandall’s expertise and passion for hospitality, emphasizing his role in nurturing talent and ensuring the success of transformative programmes.
Travelodge has completed its acquisition of Barcelona Cornella Fira, the final hotel in a six-property deal with Louvre Hotels Group. The 138-room hotel brings Travelodge’s Spanish portfolio to 12, doubling its presence this year. The other five hotels, located in Alicante, Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga, and Murcia, were acquired earlier. CEO Jo Boydell emphasised Spain’s importance to the brand’s growth, with plans to expand further. Three new hotels in San Sebastian, Cadiz, and Alicante are set to begin construction in 2025, bringing the total to 15. Travelodge aims to provide affordable accommodations for business and leisure travelers across Spain.