Today’s news in brief – 24/4/25
Marie-Isabelle Gruson has been appointed to Adagio’s executive committee as director of operations projects and services (OPS), IT digital, purchasing, and transformation. A veteran of the brand since its inception, Gruson brings 25 years of experience in hospitality, beginning her career as a hotel receptionist in 1993. She joined the Pierre and Vacances Group in 1999 and later became a key figure in Adagio’s development. In her current role, she established the OPS department to support employees and enhance service delivery. Now also overseeing transformation projects, she aims to connect operational realities with strategic initiatives. CEO Xavier Desaulles praised her deep understanding of the business and her potential to help lead Adagio’s transformation.
Travelodge has opened a new 130-room hotel in Bradford, strategically positioned between Bradford and Leeds. The hotel provides convenient access to local attractions and major transport links, making it suitable for both leisure and business travelers. This launch is part of Travelodge’s wider expansion strategy, with plans to add 300 more hotels across the UK, including 19 in the North West. UK development director Tony O’Brien emphasized the brand’s commitment to growth, job creation, and providing value to a diverse customer base.
Silkstone Finance, owned by Alf and Clare Ellis, has acquired the Northcote Hotel in Lancashire from The Stafford Collection. Craig Bancroft, who co-founded the hotel in 1983, will continue as general manager. Northcote features 26 rooms and is set to undergo significant refurbishment, including the addition of a new fine dining restaurant led by returning chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen. The Ellis’ plan includes a wellness space and enhanced event facilities to position Northcote as a leading luxury hospitality destination. Goodwin-Allen expressed excitement at her return, aiming to deliver exceptional culinary and guest experiences alongside the new owners.
Hospitality Wise Ltd has acquired the Wayford Bridge Inn in the Norfolk Broads from Aura Inns Ltd. The hotel comprises 29 rooms, a bar, and a restaurant, all of which were upgraded under Aura Inns’ ownership since 2015. Hospitality Wise, led by Abdul Shakir and Syed Ejaz, intends to maintain the Inn’s high standards while continuing to grow the business and support the local community. The off-market sale was facilitated by Simon Jackaman of Christie and Co, who highlighted the importance of his longstanding connections in the East Anglia hospitality sector.
