Today’s news in brief – 26/2/25
Cromlix, a five-star country house hotel, has appointed James Mearing as its new executive head chef, replacing Darin Campbell after 11 years. Mearing, who previously worked at Summer Lodge Country House Hotel and other prestigious establishments, is relocating to Stirlingshire. He is currently working with Campbell for a smooth transition at The Glasshouse restaurant and will oversee fine dining at the hotel. He will also contribute to planning a new restaurant and kitchen set to open in 2026. Mearing expressed excitement about continuing the hotel’s strong culinary reputation and creating a food destination in Stirlingshire. General manager Barry Makin praised Mearing’s exceptional skills and ideas, ensuring continued success for The Glasshouse.
The Department for Work and Pensions is expanding its partnership with UKHospitality to introduce Sector-based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs) in 26 new areas, following a successful 2024 pilot. The scheme offers hospitality training, work placements, and guaranteed job interviews, with 80% of participants securing employment. Employment Minister Alison McGovern is set to discuss the rollout at UKHospitality’s Workforce and Skills event. UKHospitality CEO Kate Nicholls welcomed the expansion, emphasising its role in tackling economic inactivity and developing the Hospitality Skills Passport, which standardizes training credentials. She encouraged businesses to engage with the initiative.
UK hotel investment transactions surpassed £6bn in 2024, marking a 133% increase from the previous year and the highest since 2019, even as commercial property investment declined. Large portfolio deals over £200m drove the surge, with London being the primary investment hub. However, single-asset deals above £25m outside London remained scarce due to pricing mismatches. Investors have shifted from offices to hospitality, with hotel investments now 60% higher than the 10-year average. In contrast, there were no major City of London office sales over £100m for the first time ever. As interest rates fall in 2025, market liquidity and pricing alignment are expected to improve.
One Aldwych hotel in London has reopened following a design revamp across its lobby bar, Indigo restaurant, and suites. Designed by Fabled Studio, the lobby bar features a striking sculptural ceiling and a new cocktail menu inspired by the hotel’s art collection. Indigo restaurant now includes heritage-inspired design elements and a seasonal spring menu by chef Dominic Teague. Signature suites Somerset and Waterloo Bridge have been updated with design pieces by Jonathan Adler. The Somerset Suite now offers a flexible four-bedroom layout to cater to families. The hotel’s leadership emphasized the importance of evolving to meet guest expectations while maintaining its independent identity.
