Hotelier & Hospitality Design - November 2023 by updatemediagroup

November 2023: Industry News, Hotel Openings, Luxury Furniture, Technology, Lighting...

Hotelier & Hospitality Design

SIMBA LAUNCH TRIO OF PIONEERING SLEEP SOLUTIONS WITH NEW CONTRACT MATTRESS COLLECTION [click here]

EYE CATCHING LOUNGE FURNITURE Thurston Tub Chair shown

UPHOLSTERED LOUNGE FURNITURE Plaza

Bohemia

Malmo

Lotti

Clipsham

Stowmarket

EDEN FURNITURE offer a wide range of upholstered chairs, armchairs, sofas and footstools for lounge, dining and bedroom areas. Traditional made furniture with solid beech frames finished in a choice of frame colours and any fabric for upholstery.

Wobbly tables can be a thing of the past thanks to the patented StableTable technology. STABLETABLE is a unique patented fully automated solution which is hidden with the pillar of the table base allowing the legs to adjust to uneven surfaces. Available for both indoor and outdoor use in a range of heights, shapes and sizes. Can be supplied as base only or complete with a stylish OnTop 12mm Compact Laminate top.

November 2023

Simba Launch Trio Of Pioneering Sleep Solutions with new Contract Mattress Collection

CORPORATE CHRISTMAS PACKAGES AND VERSATILE PRIVATE SPACES AT DOWN HALL HOTEL

SELINA HOTELS UK ANNOUNCES EXCITING PARTNERSHIP WITH WEST MIDLANDS TRAINS

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To speak to a member of the team, please call 020 805 09659 or email hello@hotelierandhospitalitydesign.com

The perfect finish to any bathroom To make life easier, we give many of our taps and showers a flawless contemporary chrome finish. No need for chemicals. Just a quick wipe with a wet cloth and you’re done. Brilliant. www.bristan.com

13/09/2019 15:45

MATTRESS CONCIERGE OUTFITS THREE MERCER MANAGEMENT PROPERTIES IN 2023 Leading hospitality supplier, Mattress Concierge, has outfitted three Mercer Management properties in the first half of 2023. The management group utilizes Mattress Concierge’s Classic Plush mattress as its brand standard across all properties. Photo Credit Spray Beach Hotel

Mattress Concierge has supplied around 300 Classic Plush mattresses to two of Mercer’s properties in Long Beach Island, Spray Beach Oceanfront Hotel and The Boulevard Hotel, and Manasota Key Resort in Florida. The supplier’s mattresses make up the entirety of these properties.

Hotelier & Hospitality Design

“Mercer Management is a growing organization and an incredible pleasure to work with,” said Managing Director of Mattress Concierge, Rob Richards. “When we supplied mattresses to The Boatyard during the pandemic, Mercer was able to see how little we were affected during the pandemic compared to other suppliers. We demonstrated our reliability and since its visitors enjoy our Classic Plush mattresses so much, the company considers the mattress its brand standard. We are thrilled to be their exclusive partner.”

“We reached out to Mattress Concierge to supply mattresses to our Hotel LBI property because we wanted luxurious mattresses that were comfortable and durable. We realize the importance of ensuring our guests sleep well whenever they stay at our properties. We have had the company outfit many of our other properties since then. Rob is wonderful to work with and the products speak for themselves – we even receive calls from guests to inquire about where they can purchase the same mattress they slept on,” said Meghan Jacobs, Director of Design for Mercer Management & Development.

Mattress Concierge has been providing mattresses to the most discerning, independent hotels in the hospitality industry since The Classic Plush mattresses are made exclusively with 2010. These CertiPUR-USÒ high resiliency super firm and soft foam, exceptional a deep-quilted panel with cotton fiber, a beautiful stretch mattresses are knit fabric and upholstery grade ticking. The mattress sought after by utilizes Leggett & Platt’s top of the line innerspring system four-and five-star to ensure the durability and lifespan of the mattress – luxury hotels, something that Richards believes is incredibly important in inns, resorts, and Photo Credit Spray Beach Hotel hospitality mattresses. boutique hotels. Mattress Concierge will also custom-design mattresses to Mattress Concierge and Mercer Management started their meet hotel owners’ particular needs, combining superior partnership in 2019. Mattress Concierge’s Classic Plush quality, comfort, and durability. mattress is also featured in the group’s Bonnet Island Estate and the Boatyard in Manahawkin, N.J., and Hotel For more information, visit LBI in Ship Bottom, N.J.. www.mattressconcierge.com

USING THE POWER OF SCENT TO CONNECT WITH CUSTOMERS Studies have shown that smell is intricately linked to memory and emotion, making it the most powerful of all our senses. By harnessing the power of scent, businesses can build important connections with their customers that go far beyond transactional, according to phs Greenleaf.

“It’s about creating an enjoyable and memorable sensory experience for the customer that increases the time they spend with a business and generates positive emotions towards a brand,” said Stephen Dieppe, Managing Director of phs Greenleaf, which provides interior and exterior planting and landscaping services to businesses across the UK.

“The scent works across so many different environments too. For example, festive scents in a hotel lobby will evoke memories of the comfort and warmth of Christmas at home, instantly making it feel a more welcoming and homely environment for guests to relax in. In a retail environment, it boosts mood, creates excitement and subtly reminds shoppers that it is time to start the Christmas shopping.

phs Greenleaf has introduced a new Sensamist fragrance for customers looking to boost Christmas spirit – and spending – this festive season. ‘Winter Warmer’ is a nostalgic blend of signature Christmas scents, including baked cinnamon apples, creamy vanilla, rich brown sugar and delicate notes of nutmeg, designed to evoke happy festive memories and emotions.

“More and more brands are using scent to evoke the feelings they want customers to experience to influence their spending habits and attitudes to a brand. Cinemas use popcorn scents to evoke happy, nostalgic memories of previous movie trips and to promote the purchase of snacks. Supermarkets use baked bread scents to make customers feel at home and comfortable in their stores, whilst directly them to the freshly baked section. Many car retailers even have individual scents for different makes of car, each designed to bring about the desired emotions about driving that particular model.

Sensamist is a powerful scent diffuser that uses advanced technology to deliver a fine mist of scent, perfect for lobbies, hotels, restaurants and retail environments.

“Harnessing the power of scent is an easy and subtle way to create connections with a customer that will last long after the purchase has been made.”

“Scent is a key marketing tool in the run-up to Christmas in particular,” added Stephen Dieppe. “Our favourite festive smells can instantly transport us to the excitement and comfort of Christmas time, stirring up feelings and reminding us of positive memories and experiences we have from that time of year.

phs Greenleaf has been providing award-winning planting, interior and grounds maintenance services for over 25 years. It also offers a range of pre-decorated and pre-lit Christmas trees in a range of sizes with matching accessories, including wreaths, garlands and tabletop trees. View phs Greenleaf’s Christmas 2023 brochure for the full range including the new ‘Winter Warmer’ Sensamist scent.

Hotelier & Hospitality Design

Scent marketing, as it has come to be known, creates an invisible bond with a business’ customers that elicits positive emotions and can influence customer behaviour.

EMPIRIA GROUP HOSTED A WOMEN EMPOWERMENT BOOTCAMP IN COLLABORATION WITH MEXOXO FOR A SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR For a second consecutive year Empiria Group partnered with Mexoxo to support their initiative of empowering women through educational talks and workshops at Empiria’s founding property, Vedema, A Luxury Collection Resort in Santorini. Over the weekend from the 21st - 23rd October, the two- day bootcamp offered participants the chance to deepen their knowledge and skills by meeting professionals in their respective fields. New for this year, Mexoxo expanded its collaboration with INCO Academy, specialsing in future driven industries and Google.org, the charity arm of Google which focuses on social enterprise and mentorship to further deepen and diversify the participants’ knowledge within their particular industry. Kalia Konstantinidou, Vice President of Empiria Group stated, “‘We are euphoric and honoured to have joined forces with Mexoxo for this novel educational program, organised for its second consecutive year. Empiria and Mexoxo share the same values, commitment and vision for women’s socio-economic empowerment, equality, diversity and inclusion. At Empiria Group, we strive for equal opportunities and encourage our teams to endorse the same mentality. We are confident that this program will unveil a bright future for all those who attended.”

Hotelier & Hospitality Design

The goal of this year’s Bootcamp remained the empowerment of women and the promotion of their skills through “superpower sessions” to level up their knowledge and expertise by attending workshops with industry specialists. The sessions provided an enriched educational experience, as well as an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas and collaborate with others professionally.

Highlights of the two-day bootcamp included a panel discussion hosted by Kalia Konstantinidou, Vice President of Empiria Group and Niki Smirni, Founder & CEO of Travel Gems, a leading retreat company in Europe. Their discussion focused on leading luxury hospitality both in a professional and personal capacity, dedicated to empowerment within their chosen industry. Niki Smirni commented, “It was my pleasure and honour to talk with my friend and colleague Kalia Konstantinidou and to share the truth of our

everyday life with so many wonderful women, who strive to develop with faith and enthusiasm! Their thirst to learn gave me so much strength too! Thanks to Mexoxo for the work they do! Don’t stop for a minute!” Other highlights included an engaging session led by Spyros Tsoukalas, Founder of Technology Without Boarders and GrowthMentor which demystified the world of No Code, showcasing its vast potential. Spryos also displayed empowering ways for participants to build their first website and publish it online, whilst also endorsing entrepreneurship. Spyros Tsoukalas commented, “I was honoured to share my knowledge in the field of No Code with the amazing Mexoxo women who joined us in Santorini. We made a clear step towards women’s empowerment and education.” Amalia Spyratou, Academy Director, and Mariedina Linardou, Account Manager and Coursera Support at INCO, also hosted a “Women Will” session as part of the ‘Grow with Google’ program, focusing on the economic empowerment of women worldwide by addressing gaps in information and working towards a more equitable world one step at a time. Amalia stated, “It was a true pleasure to be part of Mexoxo’s bootcamp this year and to get the opportunity to meet all the amazing beneficiaries. Hosting the bootcamp at Vedema with its impeccable hospitality and luxury services, only made the experience greater.” As part of this ongoing collaboration between Mexoxo and Empiria Group, Empiria Group covered the accommodation expenses of Mexoxo members during the their trip to the US, as they proudly championed two key fundamental activations; including the Obama Foundation, focusing on climate crisis, creating future collective pathways of change, the Clinton Global Initiative aiming to implement solutions to solve health equity and inclusive economic growth, and Concordia Annual Summit, a public-private sector forum battling societies’ most urgent issues, such as the distribution of mental health services and sustainability. Mexoxo was proud to continue this collaboration with Empiria Group in an effort to reward the dedication of women who invest in education and seek professional advancement for their years bootcamp.

Hotelier & Hospitality Design

Kalia Konstantinidou, Vice President of Empiria Group

Hotelier & Hospitality Design

Welcome to th

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he Hospitality sector’s Newest Must-Have

Simba Launch Trio Of Pioneering Sleep Solutions with new Contract Mattress Collection

Engineering the perfect night’s sleep since 2016, British sleep technology specialist Simba continues to redefine the boundaries of rest, unveiling its next chapter and launching its new cutting-edge Contract Mattress Collection, a venture set to elevate the guest experience for International business and leisure travellers alike.

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Hotelier & Hospitality Design

In the world of hospitality, quality slumber isn’t just a luxury; it’s the cornerstone of glowing reviews and unwavering guest loyalty. It holds the power to shape a venue’s reputation and financial success.

Simba Pro Contract • • •

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Hotelier & Hospitality Design

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6 Layers | 26cm depth Cooling graphite-infused Simbatex® 30x more breathable than memory foam 2000 Springs - combining a top layer of 1000 Aerocoil® titanium microsprings with 1000 zoned pocket springs in the base for extra support and comfort Two CertiPUR® foam layers for support and stability, which are free from pollutants and toxic substances Edge-to-edge support from our breathable zoned SupportCore™ spring base - 1000 springs - engineered to targeted zoned support for areas such as hips and shoulders while preventing any dipping or rolling off and maximising sleep space Breathable 3D Mesh sides - supports maximum airflow through the mattress layers and aids shape retention

Hailed as the ‘world’s most 5-star rated mattress brand,’ with over 250,000 five-star reviews and 60+ industry awards, Simba’s Contract Mattress range is a culmination of years of sleep research, cutting-edge technology, and an unwavering dedication to the art of slumber. The collection seamlessly blends Simba’s renowned sleep technology, comfort, and performance to create an unparalleled sleep experience. Catering to different price points and preferences, the collection features three distinctive offerings – the Simba Pro Contract, the Simba Luxe Contract, and the Simba Green Label Contract - Simba’s most sustainable mattress yet. Whether its private rentals, serviced apartments, or luxury resorts, the sleep technology brand’s range of contract mattresses effortlessly adapt and cater to all types of accommodation regardless of scale. Simba’s end-to-end service also ensures a seamless experience, from consultation and design to rolled delivery, and even mattress disposal and recycling. Engineered Comfort

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Excellence,

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At the heart of the collection lies the awardwinning Hybrid® technology, a hallmark of Simba’s innovation - meaning guests can enjoy the Simba sleep experience; uninterrupted slumber, awakening refreshed and rejuvenated. Simba’s exclusive technology means that their Hybrid mattresses are comfortable for everyone, whatever their shape or how they sleep. Key to this are Simba’s incredible upper comfort layers and supportive base layers.

The upper layers feature thousands of Simba’s patented titanium Aerocoil® springs; these patented, pocketed springs flex and compress individually to absorb impact as people move and in response to pressure - giving a hugged, floating sensation to suit most sizes or sleeping styles. Simba’s Aerocoil® springs also provide localised support and weight distribution so the movements of a partner are absorbed more easily and not passed onto the other side of the bed. Meanwhile, the base layers play a vital role in maintaining proper body alignment, offering gentler support and additional cushioning for the shoulders and lower back. In the Pro and Luxe models the Aerocoil® springs are combined with cooling graphite-infused Simbatex® foam, which has been engineered for pitch-perfect temperature control. Allowing 30 x more airflow than dense, standard memory foam, it is infused with natural graphite that works to draw excess heat away from the body. Whilst the Green Label uses a more sustainable, graphite-infused natural latex layer in place of the Simbatex. The result is a range of mattresses that dynamically adjust to the sleeper’s body, offering personalised support, temperature regulation, and pressure relief, all while minimising motion transfer. Every Simba Contract mattress adheres rigorously to CRIB 5 fire regulations, ensuring both comfort and safety. The UK Fire Regulations Act of 1988 has been surpassed, allowing both hoteliers and guests to rest assured in Simba’s commitment to their well-being.

Hotelier & Hospitality Design

A Collection Curated to Meet the Diverse Needs of Hospitality

Simba Luxe Contract • •

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Hotelier & Hospitality Design

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8 Layers | 30cm depth Breathable, recycled Simba Renew layer anti-allergenic Simba Renew fibres (up to 75% recycled) aid airflow and discourage dust mites. Cooling graphite-infused Simbatex® 30x more breathable than memory foam. 4500 Springs - best comfort from a top layer of 2500 Aerocoil® titanium microsprings, a midlayer of 1000 mini barrel springs and 1000 zoned pocket springs in the base Two CertiPUR® foam layers for support and stability, which are free from pollutants and toxic substances Edge-to-edge support from our breathable zoned SupportCore™ spring base - 1000 springs - engineered to targeted zoned support for areas such as hips and shoulders while preventing any dipping or rolling off and maximising sleep space Breathable 3D Mesh sides - supports maximum airflow through the mattress layers and aids shape retention

Sustainability as a Guiding Principle In 2023, Simba became the first UK sleep brand to secure global B Corporation™ status, marking a significant step toward its ambitious goal of achieving net-zero status by 2030. Simba is on a mission to make its products more sustainable by working towards zerowaste eco-factories powered by renewable energy sources that adhere to ISO 14001 accreditation. They are also constructed from 100% recyclable materials, with minimised foam content to reduce the carbon footprint. The CertiPUR® standard foam used is devoid of pollutants and toxic substances, ensuring a healthier sleep environment. Collaboration lies at the heart of Simba’s sustainable practices. By partnering with a British manufacturer and a network of global manufacturing partners, Simba ensures that its products are produced as close to the final destination as possible, minimising the carbon footprint associated with transportation.

According to a recent survey, a growing percentage of guests are willing to pay more per night to a hotel that can demonstrate genuinely sustainable policies, the Simba Green Label Contract mattresses can help hoteliers with a more ecoconscious bed for guests. Simba’s most sustainable mattress yet. With all the cooling, supportive comfort the sleep technology firm is famous for. It’s an ingenious blend of its patented mattress tech and Latex, a natural biodegradable material which also offers unrivalled pressure relief and cushioning. And a reduced carbon footprint vs traditional Hybrids. • • • •

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7 Layers | 26cm depth Made with Organic Cotton from a GOTS Certified Supplier Breathable, recycled Simba Renew layer - anti-allergenic Simba Renew fibres (up to 75% recycled) aid airflow and discourage dust mites Organic graphite-infused latex comfort layer - a perforated natural latex layer offers increased breathability, as well as luxurious support and pressure distribution Supportive patented titanium Aerocoil® microspring layer - up to 1000 patented, cone-like springs offer superior body support and increased airflow through the mattress Edge-to-edge support from our breathable zoned SupportCore™ spring base - 2000 springs - engineered to offer targeted zoned support for areas such as hips and shoulders while preventing any dipping or rolling off and maximising sleep space Recycled Polyester base layer to provide stability and support Breathable 3D Mesh sides - supports maximum airflow through the mattress layers and aids shape retention

Simba CEO, Steve Reid, said “Through innovative technology, eco-friendly practices, and a deep understanding of guest’s sleep needs, Simba has reimagined the very essence of a hotel mattress. “In an era where hospitality providers are constantly challenged to deliver exceptional experiences, Simba’s new contract trio not only meet but exceed these expectations. The collection epitomises the brand’s dedication to transforming sleep.” Simba’s Wholesale & Contract Lead, Keri Blunden, said “Whether you run a boutique B&B, budget hotel or luxury resort, Simba is dedicated to assisting hoteliers with a premium, socially responsible sleep solution. Our durable sustainable beds will resonate with travellers whose booking choices are increasingly influenced by their commitment to environmental values.” Eager to showcase the future of hospitality sleep, Simba is set to make its presence felt at two upcoming London events. These include the International Hotel Show on October 16th and 17th, at stand 1230. Then the following month, at HIX on the 16th and 17th November. Look out for the hub of cuttingedge sleep solutions at stand U16. Find out more about Simba’s contract mattress credentials and the exciting new collection by emailing: wholesale@simbasleep.com

Hotelier & Hospitality Design

Simba Green Label Contract

The rise of AI and automation in hospitality: Is your venue futureproofed? Tim Loynes, Director at Cellnex UK In-Building Solutions explores how tech is influencing building design to meet the needs of the tech-enabled customer.

Why not Wi-Fi?

Close the connectivity gap Buildings can be retrofitted with InBuilding connectivity solutions to solve this issue. Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) provide enhanced cellular coverage, effectively handling high data traffic volumes and extending the reach of wireless networks. By strategically placing antennas throughout the premises, DAS overcomes the limitations posed by thick walls and structural obstacles, ensuring strong, consistent and cost-effective 4G or 5G indoor connectivity for guests.

While it’s true that hotels are increasingly offering free Wi-Fi, this isn’t the ideal solution for all guests’ needs with concerns around speed and security. Outlets can provide a truly seamless experience by eliminating the need for guests to connect to Wi-Fi via access codes and logon processes. They can stay connected from check-in to checkout without disruption or experiencing slower speeds and dropped sessions common in highly congested networks.

With stiff competition within the sector, it’s vital that hospitality and hotel buildings are futureproofed for the demands of emerging tech, as well as the expectations of consumers. Find out more by visiting:

Tackling connectivity not-spots

www.cellnex.com/gb-en/technology/ in-building-solutions

If we look ahead to the hospitality industry of the not-so-distant future, artificial intelligence, robotics and augmented reality will have an established role in operations. Inevitably tech is transforming the sector, helping to streamline and enhance guest experiences as well as anticipate and deliver services tailor-made to customers’ personal preferences.

Hotelier & Hospitality Design

While some of these developments aren’t mainstream just yet, hotel experiences are being enhanced by digital technology today. Whether that’s digital check-ins or offering information and services via QR codes or bespoke apps, as well as ‘smart’ in-room amenities. On top of this, the move to hybrid working means that corporate guests expect to make use of real-time communication tools with faster download speeds and reduced latency.

When strong mobile coverage is not there, it is disruptive to hospitality managers and the guest experience. Certain buildings present unique challenges when it comes to ensuring reliable connectivity – outdated infrastructure, thick walls, steel structures, and the use of metallised glass in building design can impede wireless signals, resulting in weak or inconsistent internet connections. For those who are based in old buildings with poor connection, it can turn into a recurring headache.

The right amount of dimness or brightness should also be taken into consideration to make sure that there is still enough light to navigate, while not making it too glaringly bright. In addition to colour temperature, careful attention should be paid to the quantity of light needed in each area to set the right mood. Too much lighting can be distracting and overpowering, while too little could leave certain areas feeling closed off or uninviting. A balance between natural and artificial sources must be achieved to provide just enough illumination without being overly noticeable or disruptive.

Industville Lights shown in Brick & Liquor. Image Credit Brick & Liquor.

We ask Mara Rypacek Miller, Managing Director, Industville Ltd, www.industville.co.uk, How can lighting create the right atmosphere at a hospitality venue?

ighting plays an essential role in creating the desired atmosphere at a hospitality venue. With skilful craftsmanship and innovative creativity, lighting can transform any interior space into a setting that is inviting, comfortable, and enjoyable. By utilising high-quality fixtures, fabrics, textures, and colours strategically placed throughout the room, lighting can create an ambiance that will captivate guests from the moment they step inside. The colour of light is one of the most important elements to consider when creating a successful hospitality space. Warm tones create a cosy atmosphere with soft light that is welcoming and comforting for guests. Cooler tones provide a more vibrant feel with energizing hues that make any room appear bigger and brighter. Combining different temperatures of light can also help to accentuate certain areas while creating strong focal points that draw attention to unique features within the space.

The goal is to create a warm and inviting ambiance that immerses customers in the experience while showcasing the character of the venue. Colours such as reds, yellows, oranges can help create cosy atmospheres while blues and greens give off calming vibes.

If your hospitality establishment is fortunate to have an outdoor space, it is vital you make the most of the area. When used in the right way, lighting can be used to make stylish, thoughtfully designed spaces, creating just the desired atmosphere whether it is for an informal alfresco lunch or a chic, bustling outdoor cocktail bar. Thanks to technological advances, IP65 rated outdoor lighting designs are available in a wide range of finishes, fittings, and styles, meaning there is an outdoor lighting option to suit any outdoor space from modern, state-of-the-art hotel terraces to brick, wood, or traditional gardens. Mara Rypacek Miller, Managing Director, Industville Ltd 020 7971 7871 | www.industville.co.uk Below: Old Factory Pendants shown at Goodwood Racecourse. Image Credit Goodwood Racecourse

CORPORATE CHRISTMAS PACKAGES AND VERSATILE PRIVATE SPACES AT DOWN HALL HOTEL Elevate your Christmas celebrations this year in the heart of the Essex countryside at award-winning Down Hall Hotel Spa & Estate. Conveniently located just 45 minutes from Central London, the hotel boasts 12 flexible private spaces. Whether you’re looking for an intimate dinner or a blowout Christmas party for up to 200 guests, Down Hall has you covered. PRIVATE DINING/BANQUETING MENU

Hotelier & Hospitality Design

An array of private dining rooms is available, from 18 guests seated for an intimate dinner in its Lyndhurst Suite to 60 diners for a bigger group in the grand Prior Room. Executive Chef Robert Pearce’s Christmas dining menus feature seasonal British produce with dishes, such as smoked duck with pickled blackberry and hazelnut; stout braised feather blade of beef with mashed potato, heritage carrot, baby onions and jus, and an indulgent Maldon salted chocolate ganache with honeycomb and Baileys ice cream. Prices start from £67pp.

PRIVATE PARTY NIGHTS Experience the Private Party Night packages for larger affairs of 60+ guests, which include a welcome drink, three-course meal, resident DJ and a designated dance floor, with each room complete with a showstopping Christmas tree and filled with festive decorations. Choose from the stunning Bridgeman Selwin Suite featuring high ceilings and elegant chandeliers, with built in AV and a dedicated bar for 80+ guests seated. Alternatively, the Oxford Belcamp suite in the newly refurbished West Wing overlooks the hotel’s impressive grounds and also comes with its own bar, with capacity for up to 200 seated guests.

Book a festive party early on selected dates throughout November to enjoy the package at a discounted rate of £75 per person. To find out more, click here JOINER PARTY NIGHTS A chance to get suited and booted, step into your best party attire and enjoy an exceptional evening of good food, music and company. Featuring a magnificent three course meal in Down Hall’s striking Oxford Belcamp and Bridgeman Selwin Suites, along with the hotel’s resident DJ bringing the festive cheer throughout the evening. Priced from £67.50pp on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and £75.00pp on Fridays and Saturdays, delve into a decadent festive feast prepared by the team from the hotel’s 2 AA Restaurant, The Garden Room. Availability is limited throughout November and December with a selection of dates available, so book here. Those who want to make the most of the evening can enjoy an overnight stay in one of the hotel’s elegant and contemporary guest rooms. Prices start from £212 (including bed and breakfast), with a discount offer of £175 for private party guests throughout stays in November. For more information, click here

Hotelier & Hospitality Design

Delamere launches 97ml Oat drink for hospitality industry Delamere has announced the launch of a 97ml Oat drink following the success of its 97ml semi-skimmed milk into the hospitality and catering sector. The mini milks are designed for hotel or bed and breakfast hospitality trays and can be used to add to tea or coffee or poured over cereal. The Oat drink has been developed to offer a plant-based alternative to cows’ milk. Heat treating the product provides a shelf life of up to six months and once opened it can be treated as fresh milk and stored in the fridge. Each bottle contains the equivalent of 8 servings of traditional-style milk pots and can be re-closed and stored by guests, saving staff time on repeatdeliveries of fresh milk to rooms.

Hotelier & Hospitality Design

The stylish glass bottles, capped with an aluminium lid, are both fully recyclable another big win for destinations implementing responsible waste management practices and committed to eliminating the use of single-use plastic.

For sales enquiries contact dan@delameredairy.co.uk

www.delameredairy.co.uk

École Ducasse recognised World’s Best Culinary Institution École Ducasse’s iconic Paris Campus has been awarded World’s Best Culinary Training Institution 2023 and Europe’s Best Culinary Training Institution 2023 by the World Culinary Awards, as voted for by the culinary community, industry experts and consumers worldwide.

École Ducasse was founded in 1999 by Alain Ducasse, who with 34 restaurants, 20 Michelin stars is the most influential and decorated chef in the world. Today, École Ducasse comprises three schools in France: Paris Studio in the heart of Paris, Paris Campus very close to the French capital, and the École Nationale Supérieure de Patisserie (ENSP) in Yssingeaux, Haute-Loire. École Ducasse has also developed a network of schools throughout the world: in Thailand, India and the Philippines. Each year, this worldwide network of schools welcome more than 3,000 students, from young students to professionals and gastronomy enthusiasts, all of whom share a single passion: taste and gastronomy. Today, the institution is the leading the way in culinary arts and pastry education, offering courses taught by renowned professionals: from Meilleurs Ouvriers de France (Best Craftsmen in France) to World Champions, experts and artisans.

École Ducasse team Julian Mercier, Executive Chef; Elise Masurel, Managing Director; and Adeline Molière, Academic, Development

It acknowledges our dedication to shaping the future of gastronomy.” Meanwhile, The Swiss Michelin Guide has once again recognised a gourmet restaurant at the heart of Glion Institute of Higher Education in Switzerland. For the second year in a row the prestigious guide has awarded 1 star to Chef Stéphane Décotterd for “Stéphane Décotterd”, along with a 1 Bib Gourmand for “Le Bistro by Décotterd”, both part of the “Maison Décotterd” complex. Commenting on these awards, Stéphane Décotterd said: “I would like to thank my entire team for their hard work and commitment, and I am proud to be able to share this magnificent award with them. I would also like to thank all the producers in the region with whom I’ve forged close links over the last few years of working together. They are all part of my philosophy of favouring local produce and producing regional, eco-responsible cuisine.”

“We are honoured to have the “Maison Décotterd” at the The renowned culinary institution has also just announced heart of our institution,” said Frédéric Picard, CEO of Glion the expansion of presence in the United Arab Emirates with Institute of Higher Education. “This is a unique opportunity the establishment of the École Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio – a for Glion students to draw inspiration from the exceptional pioneering venture in the area. The École Ducasse Abu Dhabi culinary talents of the Chef and his brigade.” Studio will offer by year-end a unique opportunity for aspiring First-semester Bachelor students spend four weeks on chefs and culinary enthusiasts to access avant-garde and placement at “Maison Décotterd” – alternating between the distinctive culinary education in the region. gourmet restaurant and its kitchen, the bistro and the bar. In earning the two titles of World’s Best Culinary Training The “Maison Décotterd” complex comprises four culinary Institution 2023 and Europe’s Best Culinary Training areas: the gourmet restaurant “Stéphane Décotterd”, “Le Institution 2023, and in turn rewarding École Ducasse’s commitment to excellence and the unique training standards Bistro by Décotterd”, the Bar and the Lounge, forming a veritable gastronomic destination in a spectacular setting. provided at its Paris Campus, École Ducasse Managing The brand-new Lounge recently opened its doors in Director Elise Masurel said: partnership with the prestigious cognac brand Louis XIII and “Today’s chef plays multiple roles, embracing the Champagne Télmont. Here, guests can enjoy wines and responsibility of feeding our contemporaries and engaging spirits with spectacular views of the Alps and Lake Geneva. with the cultural and social currents of the times. This To find out more about École Ducasse, visit their website: recognition underscores our contemporary vision of chefs www.ecoleducasse.com as experts, managers, entrepreneurs, global citizens, and, above all, major players in the eco-responsibility landscape.

Hotelier & Hospitality Design

As a sister competition to the World Travel Awards – established to recognise excellence in travel and tourism and currently commemorating their 30th anniversary – the World Culinary Awards, now in its fourth edition, is a globally recognised platform that celebrates and rewards culinary excellence. These awards honour exceptional achievements in various categories, including culinary education, restaurants, chefs, and more. The two prestigious award titles demonstrate École Ducasse Paris Campus’ dedication to culinary education and its unwavering pursuit of culinary perfection.

SELINA HOTELS UK ANNOUNCES EXCITING PARTNERSHIP WITH WEST MIDLANDS TRAINS: EXCLUSIVE 20% DISCOUNT OFFER FOR UK-BASED TRAVELLER To mark and celebrate its recent collaboration with West Midlands Trains, Selina Hotels, the fast-growing experiential hospitality brand targeting millennial and Gen Z travellers, is providing a special 20% discount on stays at any of its six UK-based properties. This exclusive offer is available to all travellers with West Midlands Trains and can be redeemed using the dedicated promo code UKTRAINS, which remains valid until December 2024.

Hotelier & Hospitality Design

To take advantage of the discount and find out more about Selina Hotels, simply head to Selina. com/uk and enter UKTRAINS when checking availability and booking. 20% will automatically be removed from the final price.

With six stunning properties in Birmingham, Manchester, London, Liverpool, Margate and Brighton, Selina blends beautifully designed accommodation with coworking, recreation, wellness, and local experiences. Founded in 2014 and custom-built for today’s nomadic traveller, Selina provides guests with a global infrastructure to seamlessly travel and work abroad. Each Selina property is designed in partnership with local artists, creators, and tastemakers, breathing new life into existing buildings in interesting locations. West Midlands Trains provides 1m passengers per week with a convenient and comfortable connection from Birmingham and Liverpool to London.

Previously known as London Midland, West Midlands Trains is now split into two separate train services, both with a different purpose for its passengers. With Birmingham New Street serving as a hub and interchange for the passengers, the two routes provide both long-distance and shortdistance routes, enabling commuters to travel across the Midlands at relative ease. West Midlands Trains operates both West Midlands Railway and London Northwestern Railway services. London Northwestern Railway services operate between Liverpool and Birmingham, and on the West Coast Main Line to and from London Euston. West Midlands Railway services operate to destinations across the West Midlands via Birmingham New Street and Birmingham Snow Hill.

www.selina.com

The hospitality frontline: 9 in 10 workers doubt business performance • • •

Hotelier & Hospitality Design

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Less than a fifth believe leadership have the best ideas for improvement One in three believe management do not encourage operational improvements Despite concerns, three in five are optimistic about the future of their organisation Insight on improving hospitality operations offered by Brentford FC

New research has revealed that ‘deskless’ workers – including those working in the UK’s hospitality sector – face regular operational issues, compounding doubts about business performance. Two-thirds (65%) of frontline workers say they observe operational issues monthly or more frequently, yet less than half (45%) see actions taken to address them within this timeframe. The research from global technology company SafetyCulture paints a picture of hospitality businesses being held back by ongoing operational challenges. Its findings, informed by a YouGov UK-wide survey of frontline workers, show that around 9 in 10 (87%) believe that the business they are working in is failing to operate at its full potential or they are unsure about its performance. According to the research, many believe the answers to operational issues come directly from those working at the coal face, such as in bars, restaurants, and hotels. More than half (55%) of frontline workers say that the best ideas for improvement are derived from within their ranks rather than from leadership (19%). Almost a third of workers (31%) stated that their bosses do not encourage improvements. In addition to ineffective management which is cited by 42% of frontline workers as a key reason for their business failing to maximise their full potential, respondents also flagged inadequate communication (39%) and training for staff (31%) as barriers. Three in 10 say the last time they had valuable training from their organisation that helped improve their work was a year or more ago. Concerningly, 13% of UK frontline workers feel they have never had any valuable training from their organisation. Best known for creating the world’s most-used checklist app (iAuditor), SafetyCulture is responding to the challenges identified in the research with the expansion of its all-in-one mobile-first workplace operations platform for frontline workers, leaders and teams. Beyond its inspections capability, SafetyCulture’s platform now hosts an array of new features for tasks like training

and asset management. It includes innovative tools that digitise paper-based forms from a photo and converts work instructions and equipment manuals to enable training on the go. The platform also harnesses the power of AI to create custom-training and inspection templates in minutes. An organisation that has enhanced its approach to frontline hospitality operations is Brentford Football Club. Jess Morris, Head of Stadium Operations, whose team’s responsibilities include matchday hospitality services, said: “Since our promotion to the Premier League, the need for seamless operations has never been greater with more formalised processes that support our frontline team. “Digitising our procedures has revolutionised the way that we work, and this includes getting match ready. Gone are the paper checklists – we now use digital tools to ensure the grounds are in good order, and manage accreditation, security, and cleaning. It really has enabled us to deliver the best experience for our fans, players, and staff.” Commenting on the research findings, Feico Mol, SafetyCulture’s General Manager EMEA said: “Deskless workers are the lifeblood of the UK economy, powering some of our most essential industries such as hospitality. We must listen to them. Our research shows how operational issues are regularly observed by workers on the frontline, but not always addressed. Too often, frontline workers’ views are overlooked and areas that could improve operations such as investment in technology have been focused on office-based workers.” He added: “The good news is that it’s not all doom and gloom with three in five workers we asked saying that they’re optimistic about the future of their organisation. We share their optimism and with the right tools and communications, hospitality businesses can harness the latent potential within their frontline teams.”

safetyculture.com

Hotelier & Hospitality Design

ARCHWAY BATTERSEA INCLUDED IN 2023 MICHELIN GUIDE

Archway, the culinary gem nestled in the heart of Battersea, is thrilled to announce its inclusion in the prestigious Michelin Guide. The award signifies Archway’s dedication to culinary excellence and its exceptional contribution to the vibrant dining scene of the local Battersea area. The Michelin Guide, known worldwide for its discerning restaurant evaluations, has recognised Archway’s commitment to offering a truly exceptional dining experience. This acknowledgement is a testament to Archway’s commitment to outstanding cuisine, innovation, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that keeps locals and residents a like coming back for more. Archway takes great pride in its innovative approach to cuisine, blending traditional and contemporary flavours to create a unique and memorable dining experience. The restaurant’s talented chefs and dedicated staff have consistently delivered outstanding service, setting a benchmark for gastronomy in Battersea and beyond. “We are incredibly honoured to be included in the Michelin Guide, and it’s a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our entire team,” said Lorenzo Nigro Head Chef of Archway. “This recognition fuels our passion to continue creating exceptional dining experiences for our guests, and we’re excited to raise the bar even higher.” Archway invites diners to experience the Michelin-level service. Whether you are a local resident or visiting London, Archway is the perfect destination for those looking to savour delectable dishes and enjoy a delightful dining experience. For more information about Archway and to make reservations, please visit: archwaybattersea.co.uk

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07/12/2022 15:27:10

MATTRESS CONCIERGE DEVELOPS TURNKEY SOLUTION FOR BOUTIQUE & INDEPENDENT HOTELS LOOKING TO UPGRADE EMPLOYEE HOUSING LARK HOTELS IS MOST RECENT CUSTOMER WHO BELIEVES BETTER EMPLOYEE HOUSING HELPS STAFF RECRUITMENT & RETENTION Photo Credit Mattress Concierge

Leading hospitality supplier, Mattress Concierge, is seeing an uptick in orders from boutique and independent hotels buying its products for employee housing, telling the sleep products provider that they see increased recruitment and retention of staff as a result of better sleeping conditions.

Hotelier & Hospitality Design

“Increasingly in our markets, being able to offer employee housing enables us to stay competitive in a very competitive staffing environment. It’s important to us to provide high-quality furnishings at a reasonable expense for our staff housing buildings – we want our employees to be as comfortable as the guests they’re serving. We also require easy set-up since we’re often very quickly putting together many rooms for staff all at once. Mattress Concierge has made this process much Lark Hotels is the most recent chain to make these purchases, outfitting easier for us. The company offers a very high-quality and long-lasting staff quarters in three of their properties with upgraded mattresses. mattresses, but the bedframe solution it provides is perfect – very easy to set up, extremely sturdy and long-lasting. Everything from the ease “At the 2022 NEIRA conference we had a lot of discussions with hotel of communication to the incredibly fast Photo Credit Mattress Concierge owners and operators about the lack of quality employee housing turnaround and shopping makes sleep solutions,” said Robert Richards, managing director of Mattress Concierge. “In partnership with our manufacturer, Gold Bond, we created working with Mattress a durable mattress set targeting an affordable price point that would solve Concierge a no-brainer for us for all of our the bedding side of the issue. When I presented the turnkey solution to staff housing our clients, the answer was an overwhelming ‘Yes!’” needs,” said Amanda From that meeting and discussion with its vendors, Mattress Concierge developed a turnkey employee housing package consisting of a mattress Wallace, Director of and box spring set, paired with an the amazingly sturdy and durable Integration for Knickerbocker enGauge™ bedframe that is able to accommodate more Lark Hotels. than 2,500 pounds while remaining motion transfer and noise free. The package has been most commonly purchased in three sizes--twin, “A well-rested employee is twin XL and full, and the sets are priced between $400-$500, including a productive employee, which is why delivery. They all are backed by Mattress Concierge’s 10-year warranty. it was important to us to fill this need in the industry. We are pleased to be seeing the success that Additionally, box springs are made of wood sourced from Amish mills our customers are realizing after purchasing and utilizing our employee and are wrapped in matching upholstery-grade tweed fabric. All of the housing solution. Investing in the well-being of the employee benefits high-quality materials are sourced within 150 miles of the company’s manufacturing facility in Hartford, Conn. According to Richards, sourcing both the hotel and its guests,” Richards added. locally gives the company a competitive edge in that it is able to manage Mattress Concierge has been providing mattresses to the most supply chain issues and deliver sets to its customers quickly. discerning, independent hotels in the hospitality industry since 2010. These exceptional mattresses are sought after by four-and five-star Lark Hotels, a boutique hotel management company, has recently luxury hotels, inns, resorts, and boutique hotels. Mattress Concierge will outfitted three of their properties’ employee housing locations with also custom-design mattresses to meet hotel owners’ particular needs, Mattress Concierge’s set: The Bluebird Ocean Point Inn in Boothbay Harbor, Maine, the Bluebird Lake Placid in Lake Placid, New York and the combining superior quality, comfort, and durability. Block Island Beach House in Block Island, Rhode Island. For more information, visit www.mattressconcierge.com.

HILTON HOTEL LAUNCHES ITS OWN SECRET GARDEN GIN… syrup, the cocktail is also garnished with fresh thyme from the garden. Hilton London Heathrow Airport is raising a glass to the latest addition to its bar menu – an artisan gin made “From the outset we wanted to grow the most amazing range of ingredients here in our own hotel garden,” said Cranio Silva, OXBO Bar Manager. with botanicals from its own secret garden. “Our distiller is only about 40 miles away, too, so not only is OXBO Gin a The multi-award-winning London hotel is heavily committed to going green and has introduced a number of energy saving measures, as well as using its own chef’s garden to grow fruit and vegetables which are used in its restaurants.

real team effort, but in terms of carbon footprint it is short haul.”

Along with being served in the hotel’s bar, miniature bottles of OXBO Gin will be gifted to corporate clients and VIP guests. Hilton London Heathrow Airport recently premiered Beyond Hospitality – A Path to Sustainability; a short film which highlights the importance the hotel puts on protecting the environment.

And now the garden has been put to It can be watched via the hotel’s social channels and at youtu.be even more use – with the creation of showcasing not only the passion and commitment from the team but also the hotel’s very own gin. how their actions support Travel with Purpose, Hilton’s ESG strategy to drive responsible travel and tourism globally. The garden surrounding the hotel, at Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 4, is The award-winning property was named the World’s Leading Airport Hotel home not only to botanicals such for five consecutive years and Europe’s Leading Airport Hotel for the past as lavender, eucalyptus flowers and eight years. leaves and lemon balm, but also to heathrow.hilton.com four beehives. The beehives house the 100,000 bees needed to produce sufficient honey for the hotel’s restaurants – and now for its own brand of gin.

Hotelier & Hospitality Design

The hotel teamed up with craft gin distillery Spirit of Hertfordshire, which used those ingredients, along with woodruff and meadowsweet foraged nearby, to create OXBO Garden Gin.

Now the juniper, coriander, angelica and citrus peelinfused spirit is on sale in the hotel’s bar where it served with either Franklin and Sons Natural Tonic Water or as the foundation of the hotel’s signature Secret Garden cocktail. The cocktail is a refreshing combination of OXBO Gin, St Germain elderflower liqueur, apple and lime juices and thyme and lime

Book. It. Easy with Park Plaza’s new online meetings & events booking platform Park Plaza hotels’ new online platform allows users to instantly book, and pay for meeting rooms for up to 100 in just a few clicks. Park Plaza hotels has launched an exciting new online booking platform that will make booking and paying for a meeting room simpler than ever. The platform combines modern technology, safe payment, and real-time availability to give customers confidence and convenience when booking a meeting room for up to 100 people. The new technology has been rolled out in all Park Plaza hotels across the UK and The Netherlands, following a resurgence of in-person collaborations in the workplace – giving professionals easy access to the group’s vast repertoire of meeting rooms, boardrooms, conference suites, and executive lounges, from London to Amsterdam.

Executive Board Room at Park Plaza London Riverbank

The platform ensures that there are no last-minute surprises, as it offers live availability across all rooms, with 90%1 of meeting bookers that have used it to date having reported finding the new platform to be either very easy or easy to use. Prospective customers can ‘walk through’ meeting rooms in three dimensions, using the booking system’s 360-degree virtual tour offering. Along with transparency about what the room looks like, there is also a fully transparent pricing system that offers flexible packages, a guarantee of the best available rate, and simple, safe payment followed by instant email confirmation. In addition, bookers can also choose to have the meeting added to their calendar, downloaded as a PDF, or shared with other guests.

The Laboratory at Holmes Hotel London

Better still, the introduction of the new platform helps meeting bookers rest assured that Park Plaza Hotels ticks all of their small meeting needs; not only can Radisson Rewards planner members earn valuable points and enjoy exclusive benefits through using the platform, the group guarantees that every meeting room is 100% carbon neutral3 at no cost – meaning event planners can meet the sustainability goals3 of their clients. Manuel Martinez Infante, Director Groups, Meetings and Events Sales at Park Plaza Hotels said:

Joonas Ahola, CEO & Founder of MeetingPackage, Park Plaza Hotels’ technology partner, added: “We are thrilled to be the technological partner for Park Plaza’s new innovative booking platform, Book. It. Easy. The MeetingPackage technology helps the platform prioritise the customer experience, ensuring that every step of the booking and payment process is not just intuitive, but also secure and reliable, thereby enhancing the overall user experience and facilitating

The Gallery {Dining Set Up} at Holmes Hotel London

smoother event planning. It is great to hear that the new booking process for Park Plaza has already been so well received, underscoring the platform’s success in simplifying and demystifying the booking experience.” To find out more, visit: parkplaza.com/bookiteasy 1: HotJar survey results, 6th October 2023 2: Park Plaza automatically offsets the carbon footprint of every single meeting and event taking place at any of its hotels across Europe, at no cost to the client, in partnership with First Climate, one of the world’s largest carbon offset organizations. In addition, Park Plaza supports six sustainability, community development, and carbon offsetting projects worldwide. 3: 2023 survey results by Global DMC Partners, https://www.travelpulse.com/news/agents/whatsimpacting-the-meetings-events-industry.

Hotelier & Hospitality Design

“Our new platform will simplify the way meetings are scheduled with just a few clicks and provides a superb user interface that puts our clients’ ease first. This new system ensures that our business customers will save time and we’re very excited to see this simple and sustainable platform launch across the suite.”

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