Today’s news in brief – 3/2/25
Property management company GuestReady has opened The Fitzroy by GuestReady, a 15-unit luxury boutique accommodation in London. Housed in a Georgian building, the property previously operated as a traditional hotel but has been redesigned for short-term rental use. The Fitzroy offers tech-driven services, including remote check-ins and interactions, reducing on-site staff needs while maintaining competitive pricing. Available on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com, it mirrors GuestReady’s successful model used in Portugal. The model also maximizes revenue by repurposing communal spaces. With further expansion planned in Liverpool and London, the company emphasizes guest convenience and operational simplicity. The partnership with Starcity Properties, the building’s owner, has been key to its successful launch.
Palé Hall Hotel in Snowdonia has appointed Laurence Webb as its new head chef, alongside Tom James as deputy general manager and Vlad Pisarenco as F&B manager. Webb, with an international culinary background, will oversee dining, including the Michelin Green Star-awarded Henry Robertson Dining Room. His passion for sustainable cuisine aligns with the hotel’s focus on local produce. The hotel owners, Tony and Donna Cooper-Barney, aim to elevate Palé Hall to a premier dining and hospitality destination. Webb’s extensive experience, including roles at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons and Royal Mail Hotel, is expected to bring fresh innovation to the hotel’s culinary offerings.
The Kronen Collection, known for its boutique hotels, has acquired Borrowdale Gates Hotel in the Lake District. The historic property, located at the entrance of the Borrowdale Valley, will retain its unique character while introducing new experiences. The acquisition adds to the group’s expanding portfolio, which includes Jesmond Dene House, The Crown Hotel, and The Kilbirnie. The Kronen Collection focuses on offering guests bespoke experiences in exceptional locations, and Borrowdale Gates is seen as a perfect fit due to its charm and stunning surroundings.
UK hotel occupancy rates increased year-on-year in December, with national occupancy rising from 70.3% to 71.6%, and London’s increasing from 78.8% to 81.4%. Average daily room rates also saw an uptick, particularly in London, where rates rose from £223.12 to £230.73. However, gross operating profits remained flat in London and slightly decreased across the UK, with operational costs, especially payroll, rising. Hotel managers face challenges in maintaining profitability, with the sector bracing for higher operational costs in 2025 due to increased National Insurance and minimum wage costs. Industry experts suggest that technology and efficiency improvements will be key to navigating these pressures.
