Today’s news in brief – 18/3/25
Bowood Hotel, Spa, and Golf Resort in Wiltshire has appointed Matthew Voyle as its new general manager and Emma Frankham as deputy general manager. Voyle brings over 30 years of hospitality experience, having previously led the Nare Hotel in Cornwall to a five-star status, earning multiple awards. His career also includes leadership roles at The Bear Hotel, Llanerch Vineyard, and New Hall Hotel and Spa. Voyle aims to enhance Bowood’s guest experience and reputation through innovation and excellence. Frankham has a strong background in luxury hospitality, starting in travel before holding operational roles at Mark Warner, Harbour Hotels, and Hand Picked Hotels. She has managed wedding venues and high-end resorts, with her most recent role at St. Pierre Park Hotel in Guernsey. Frankham looks forward to working with the team to uphold Bowood’s prestige and deliver exceptional service.
Hyatt Hotels Corporation is expanding its UK portfolio by over 30% between 2025 and 2026, adding 1,000+ rooms. This follows the recent opening of Hyatt Place Leeds and Hyatt House Leeds. The dual-branded property includes Hyatt Place for short stays and Hyatt House for extended stays, both sharing amenities like a rooftop bar and fitness center. Upcoming projects include Hyatt Place London Paddington and Hyatt Regency London Olympia, expected to create 250 jobs. Hyatt has significantly grown its UK presence since 2017, now operating 17 hotels across nine brands. Anna Corkill, Hyatt’s regional VP of Development, emphasized the UK’s importance in the company’s expansion strategy, with potential future locations in Oxford, Cambridge, and other major cities.
Hotel Wrexham has seen double-digit occupancy growth since its acquisition by Steven Hesketh and Daniel Gillon in May 2024. A major renovation of its 37 rooms is set for completion by summer 2025, alongside the introduction of five self-catering apartments. The hotel’s restaurant has been transformed into the Savvy Fox gastropub, increasing food and beverage revenue by 50%. The workforce has tripled, supporting local employment and businesses. Hesketh highlighted the hotel’s success and commitment to creating memorable guest experiences while strengthening community ties.
Highgate has appointed Ben Thomas as its new chief operating officer for Europe. Thomas previously held leadership roles at Penta Hotels, Cycas Hospitality, and other major hotel brands, with extensive experience in operations and commercial strategy. At Highgate, he will focus on growth and performance optimization across its European portfolio. Steve Barick, a principal at Highgate, praised Thomas’s expertise and leadership as key to the company’s expansion. Thomas expressed excitement about joining Highgate and contributing to its continued success in Europe’s hospitality market.
