Today’s news in brief – 10/1/25

Amber Asher, CEO of The Standard Hotels, announced her departure following the group’s acquisition by Hyatt. Asher joined in 2011, progressing from general counsel to CEO in 2021. Under her leadership, the hotel chain expanded from four to 25 hotels globally, achieving 400% revenue growth and profitability. Hyatt’s purchase includes several notable properties, with plans for new openings in Singapore and Bangkok. Asher expressed pride in her tenure and the company’s achievements.

Fraser Potter, owner of Taybank Hotel, acquired the Birnam Hotel and Inn in an off-market deal. The Birnam, a Baronial-style property with 27 bedrooms, is known for its proximity to the Beatrix Potter Garden. Potter plans to blend Scottish tradition with modern hospitality to create a unique experience. Alistair Letham, a hotel consultant, praised the property’s historical significance and expressed confidence in Potter’s vision for the hotel’s future.

Dalata Hotels sold the Clayton Whites Hotel in Wexford to Neville Hotels for €21m (£17.6m). The hotel features 160 rooms, a spa, and event spaces. Proceeds from the sale will be returned to shareholders through share buybacks. Dalata CEO Dermot Crowley commended the hotel’s team and expressed confidence in its continued success under Neville Hotels. Dalata remains focused on its portfolio of 55 hotels across Europe.

UKH Cymru criticised Wales’ draft Visitor Levy legislation for lacking specific provisions to ensure funds benefit the tourism sector. The trade body urged for clauses to restrict spending to tourism-related improvements and suggested a displacement principle to prevent funds from replacing existing local authority budgets. UKH Cymru also recommended exempting children from the levy, aligning with practices in other European countries. Executive Director David Chapman emphasized the need for the levy to tangibly support tourism, calling for the Welsh Government to revise the legislation accordingly.