Today’s news in brief – 9/1/24
The Beaumont Mayfair has appointed Brendan Fyldes as executive chef, overseeing the hotel’s entire food offering, including new dining concepts launching in 2025. Fyldes, previously with Green and Fortune and GG Hospitality, brings extensive experience, having worked at Michelin-starred establishments and as an artisan butcher. He expressed excitement about elevating the dining experience, while CEO Stuart Procter anticipates Fyldes’ expertise will enhance the hotel’s food offerings.
Lichfields has received planning approval for transforming the former Penn School in Buckinghamshire into ‘Rayners Penn,’ a luxury hotel and spa, creating about 150 jobs. The project includes restoring historic buildings, adding a wellness spa, and focusing on sustainability with net zero carbon aspirations. Construction starts in 2025, expected to finish in about two and a half years. Sarah Moorhouse highlighted the blend of heritage conservation and sustainability, while CEO Duncan Ball emphasized the project’s community benefits and historic preservation.
Whitbread will open an 81-bedroom Premier Inn at Belfast International Airport in 2026, following a lease agreement with JHT Hotels Limited. The development, part of Whitbread’s strategic expansion in airport locations, will include a restaurant, bar, and parking facilities. Jill Anderson, acquisition manager at Whitbread, noted the importance of the prime location, reflecting growing travel demand and investment opportunities.
Virgin Hotels has appointed David Monson as general manager for Virgin Hotels London-Shoreditch, the brand’s first London location. Monson, with over 30 years of hospitality experience from top hotel brands, will manage daily operations and food and beverage services. He expressed enthusiasm for creating memorable guest experiences, while CEO James Bermingham praised Monson’s expertise as fitting for the brand’s expansion in London.
