Today’s news in brief – 19/3/25
EasyHotel Victoria in London has completed a £2m refurbishment, modernising all 105 rooms with low-carbon design elements, new 4-star mattresses, better soundproofing, and fast Wi-Fi. The eco-friendly upgrades include electric heating, low-flow showers, and biodegradable toiletries, reducing plastic waste by 60%. Recognised with a Gold certification from Green Tourism, the hotel’s renovation is part of easyHotel’s broader sustainability strategy. CEO Karim Malak praised the investment, emphasizing easyHotel’s affordability and central locations, while general manager Sameer Kassam celebrated the 18th anniversary with this sustainable transformation.
IHG has appointed Valor Hospitality to manage the new Voco Zeal Exeter Science Park hotel and its Isca restaurant. Isca highlights locally sourced, seasonal cuisine from Devon and Cornwall, crafted by head chef Andy Short. The 142-room hotel operates entirely on renewable energy and features an in-house gym, gardens, meeting spaces, and EV charging points. Valor’s partnership with IHG, established in 2014, continues to expand globally. IHG’s VP Joanna Kurowska emphasized the hotel’s role in setting new sustainability standards, aligning with IHG’s responsible business strategy.
Immersive Hospitality Management (IHM) has launched its Imerso Hotels brand with a debut event at Burnham Beeches Hotel in Buckinghamshire, its first property. The hotel has undergone a multi-million-pound renovation, blending wellness, sustainability, and natural surroundings into its design. IHM chairman Andrew Khoo described the launch as a milestone, inviting guests to experience the “Imerso way” firsthand.
HotelREZ Hotels and Resorts has achieved over 12% revenue growth in 2024, expanding its portfolio to 2,500 independent hotels and aparthotels across 100 countries. Strong regional performance was seen in the UK (16% growth), North America (80%), and the Middle East (37%). The group launched Best Loved Hotels, a soft brand catering to leisure travelers, further diversifying its market presence. CEO Mark Lewis credited the success to HotelREZ’s adaptability, technology investments, and ability to drive high-value bookings for independent accommodation providers.
