The Hotel Magazine October 2023

OCTOBER 2023

The significance of a bedroom in a hotel for guests is immense and goes beyond just providing a place to sleep. A well-designed and comfortable hotel bedroom can greatly enhance the overall guest experience, contribute to customer satisfaction, and even impact the hotel’s reputation and business success. In our extensive Bedroom edit, sponsored by Silent Night, we look at how you can maximise your potential in the bedroom…

The perfect hotel looks different to a variety of guests as not everyone is going to like the same thing. This means it can be difficult to really leave an impression through your interior design on a variety of visitors. Ensuring your interiors effectively reflect your ethos as a brand is another successful way to boost repeat bookings. As part of the wider Interiors focus, we share an insightful piece from Interior Designer and MD of Design LSM, Holly Hallam, who explains how ‘Technology is Revolutionising Hotel Design’.

Gearing up for yet another instalment of the only industry event dedicated entirely to the needs of luxury and boutique hoteliers, we share a mammoth seven pages, dedicated to profiles on some of the leading brands you can expect to see as exhibitors at this year’s Independent Hotel Show.

Of course, all of these unique and highly intuitive pieces are complemented by our regular features in the shape of Hotel of the Month and Hotels Around the World. We hope you enjoy the read and, as always, get in touch if there is anything specific you’d like to see in an upcoming issue.

FRONT COVER © - Lime Wood Hotel – Image by Jake Eastham

CONTENTS

8 INDUSTRY UPDATE

Providing insights into the latest happenings within the hospitality sector, we share our Industry Updates.

13 THE BEDROOM

With the edit sponsored by Silent Night, we delve into how to maximise your potential in the bedroom.

44 FIVE MINUTES WITH…

Ryan Haynes, who sheds light on some of the latest developments in technology and where it’s heading in the future for the hospitality sector.

47 INTERIORS

With the importance of interiors ever present, we share commentary on how to effectively reflect your ethos through your interior design and the importance of this.

61 INDEPENDENT HOTEL SHOW

With another instalment of the Independent Hotel Show just around the corner, we are excited to share profiles of some of the leading brands you can expect to see exhibiting this year.

106 UK HOSPITALITY

As a fantastic source of expert guidance and insight, we are delighted to share another guest column by UK Hospitality’s Kate Nicholls.

EDITOR

Jade Evans

jevans@cimltd.co.uk

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Brooke Tremain

bt@cimltd.co.uk

PUBLICATION MANAGER

Declan Wale

dec@cimltd.co.uk

Tel: 01795 509 112

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jazmine Davis

jazmine@cimltd.co.uk

Tel: 01795 509 112

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Manjeet Griffiths manjeet@cimltd.co.uk

Tel: 01795 509 112

ADMINISTRATION MANAGER

Natalie Murray

admin@cimltd.co.uk

Tel: 01795 509 103

CREDIT FACILITIES MANAGER

Gwen Lee

creditcontrol@cimltd.co.uk

Tel: 01795 509 103

MARKETING MANAGER

Lucas Payne

lucas@cimltd.co.uk

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION

Grant Waters grant@cimltd.co.uk

James Taylor james@cimltd.co.uk

SALES DIRECTOR

Tom Woollin tom@cimltd.co.uk

CHIEF EXECUTIVE

John Denning

Rosewood Hotel Group Appoints Ingrid Chen as Vice President of Brand Strategy and Marketing

Rosewood Hotel Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Ingrid Chen to the newly created role of Vice President of Brand Strategy and Marketing. Ingrid brings a wealth of experience in brand management for renowned luxury brands, making her a valuable addition to the group’s esteemed team.

Based out of Rosewood’s headquarters in Hong Kong and reporting directly to Joanna Gunn, Chief Brand Officer, Ingrid will oversee brand marketing, social media, and partnerships across all regions. This new role will further optimize Rosewood Hotel Group’s global positioning across its brands, making a significant contribution to the group’s ambitious growth strategy and vision as it continues its ongoing evolution as a leader in the luxury lifestyle space. With an extensive background of nearly 20 years in global brand development, marketing, and business development, Ingrid is a customer-centric, strategic, and results-driven leader focused on developing teams while delivering optimum solutions that surpass business goals. Ingrid has a proven track record of strengthening businesses and successfully entering new markets and has previously held senior leadership positions at Joyce, Saint Laurent, and Ralph Lauren. Before joining Rosewood, Ingrid served as the Sales & Marketing

Galvin at Windows Appoint Michele Toto as Restaurant Manager

Galvin at Windows, located on the 28th floor of London Hilton on Park Lane with floorto-ceiling views spanning London’s most iconic landmarks, have appointed Michele Toto as Restaurant Manager.

He joins from The Ritz, where he held the position of Assistant Restaurant Manager from 2020 – 2023.

Over the last eight years, Toto has gathered an invaluable array of F&B experience in establishments across the UK and Italy, including working his way up through service ranks at The Goring and holding a MicroMasters in International Hospitality Management.

Michele says: “I am thrilled to join the Hilton and Galvin families and very proud to lead such a passionate and talented team. I look forward to welcoming new and old guests in this beautiful restaurant.”

Galvin at Windows stands as one of the city’s finest dining experiences, rich with delicious innovation and complimented by inimitable surroundings. Head Chef Marc Hardiman and Chef Patron Chris and Jeff Galvin create seasonally inspired menus based around seasonal British cuisine. Their Taste of Summer menu boasts five courses celebrating the season and runs until September 10th.

www.galvinatwindows.com

Director at Dyson, where she successfully led brand strategy, equity, and sales management.

Linton Lodge Hotel granted approval for major refurbishment and 36 new rooms

Linton Lodge is currently a 3-star hotel set in the leafy North Oxford suburb, just a mile from the city centre. It is formed of two converted and extended Edwardian houses and provides 87 hotel rooms for visitors, including tourists and business travellers.

Oxford’s hotel market is currently undersupplied, which is limiting the city’s tourism and business, as well as driving up the price of local accommodation. Over the next decade, at least 670 hotel rooms are needed to address the demand.

This project will make an important contribution to meeting the need for accommodation and the hotel will generate an additional ~£2.1 million in GVA to the local economy and ~£1.7 million in visitor spending, as well as facilitate 15 new jobs and construction and supply chain positions.

The proposal removes and replaces out-of-date 1970s extensions with high-quality and sustainable new buildings to enhance the North Oxford Conservation Area.

KE Hotels collaborated with a skilled project team, including Edgars, Riach Architects, Worlledge Associates Heritage Consultant, Mode Transport Planning, Nicholsons, Waterman, Ecology Solutions, EB7, Air & Acoustics Consultants and Avison Young to guide the

design proposals through to approval via planning committee on 15 th August 2023.

“I am delighted with the outcome of the planning decision. We worked very closely with Oxford City Council, with the assistance of Riach Architects and Edgars to provide a proposal that will allow us to bring Linton Lodge up to a very modern standard and ensure the hotel has a sustainable future as a high-end boutique hotel,” said Anil Khanna, Director, KE Hotels.

Nobu Hotel London Shoreditch Appoints New General Manager

Nobu Hotel London Shoreditch, the culturally immersive destination in the heart of vibrant Shoreditch, has appointed Natasha Hargan as General Manager.

Hargan, who has an impressive 15 years’ experience in hospitality, will ensure the ongoing profitability and success of the hotel in line with Nobu brand standards.

Joining Nobu Hotel London Shoreditch from her role as General Manager at St Martins Lane London, where Hargan managed an 180-strong team. Previously she worked as Acting General Manager at Sanderson London which is a sister property to St Martins Lane Londonboth of which are now part of the Ennismore portfolio.

During her time at St Martins Lane London, she reopened the hotel twice following the global pandemic, achieving a higher profit turnover for the property in 2022 than pre-covid in 2019.

Other career milestones prior to her current appointment include tenures at Nadler Hotels, now Resident Hotels, where she assumed the role of Opening General Manager at the Victoria property. Following Nobu Hotel London Shoreditch’s recent award in The Caterer’s “Top 30 places to work in hospitality 2023”, she is keen to continue to build on the strong mental health

programme, bringing this to the forefront for all team members.

Natasha Hargan, General Manager at Nobu Hotel London Shoreditch, says: “I couldn’t be more thrilled to be part of the Nobu Hotel London Shoreditch team. Having watched the industry change drastically over the last three-years, I believe the preferences of travellers have also shifted, and as such, it’s important that we consistently consider how to unravel the wants and needs of the modern guest - this is something I think the Nobu brand does very well.”

Discover Iconic Brands and their Inspiring Founders

Luxurious amenities from iconic brands designed to elevate every step of your guest’s journey, including bathroom amenities, turndown and wellness, and VIP gifts.

THE BEDROOM

Image © Silentnight

TIME TO REFLECT

Why full-length mirrors in hotel rooms are an essential – as told by our Editor, Jade Evans.

For me, upon visiting a hotel, an absolute musthave in the bedroom is a full-length mirror. Ensuring your rooms have this all-important furnishing will ensure several practical and psychological purposes which contribute to the overall guest experience.

Some will see it as vain that this is a necessity on the checklist of some consumers when looking for a hotel stay, but in my opinion, there’s nothing worse than waiting weeks for an event and not being able to get the full picture of how you appear before leaving the hotel. Like me, travellers often want to ensure they look their best, whether it’s for business, a social event or to simply feel confident when exploring the city.

Having a full-length mirror in the hotel room is more convenient than relying on smaller mirrors in bathrooms or carrying a mirror from home. Along with mirrors providing an abundance of benefits to your visitors, they can also play a role in visually expanding the apparent size of a room, making it feel more spacious and open. This can have a positive impact on the guest’s overall perception of the room’s comfort and design.

In line with trends in this day and age and social media playing a prominent part in the lives of many consumers across the globe, many travellers like to document their trips and share photos with friends and followers. A fulllength mirror allows for full outfit photos and selfies, in turn, enhancing digital travel memories for your hotel’s visitors and making for a greater guest experience.

Convenience is key in making a good impression amongst your hotel guests so, be sure your hotel visitors know about the amenities your venue boasts. I’ve been there, five minutes before leaving for an event, stressing because I can’t see my outfit in the small bathroom mirror to then find the next morning that there’s a full-length mirror inside the wardrobe. There’s nothing to say your mirror offering can’t make up part of your venue’s marketing strategy, it could be the difference between a booking or not.

“Convenience is key in making a good impression.”

WE CREATE THE OPTIMAL CONDITIONS FOR YOUR SKIN TO FUNCTION +THRIVE. BIO-ADVANCED, CLINICALLY PROVEN FORMULAS WHICH WORK IN HARMONY WITH THE SKIN. OUR FACE + BODY TREATMENTS USE A COMBINATION OF ADVANCED TECHNIQUES FOR INSTANT SCULPTING + REJUVENATED RESULTS.

MAKING THE MOST OF IT

With help from experts, we look at how you can maximise your potential in the bedroom…

The importance of the bedroom in a hotel cannot be overstated, as it is one of the primary factors that influence a guest’s overall experience and satisfaction during their stay at your venue. With this being said, it is absolutely essential that you are maximising your potential based around this all-important room.

By focusing on providing exceptional guest experiences and creating a comfortable, welcoming, and memorable environment for visitors, you will no-doubt improve the feel of the bedroom, helping to create loyal, satisfied customers who are more likely to return and recommend the establishment to others.

In terms of shaping hotel experiences, sustainability

is playing a huge role in contributing to this. Driven by both consumer demands for eco-friendly options and the industry’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint, the bedroom is an area of utmost importance to recognise this trend and work in line with it.

Sustainability is a vital part of the approach at the Zedwell Hotels in terms of their unique interior design. Head of Interior Design at Criterion Hospitality, Darija Zivni Aziz, recognises that it not only benefits the environment but also contributes to the wellbeing and comfort of staying guests. In their cocoons, the materials used are either natural or recycled - contributing to the overall ambiance of calm and serenity and also reflecting our values and commitment to sustainability.

In terms of which amenities offer guests the best experience possible in a bedroom, at Zedwell they believe that for the optimum night’s sleep, a room should only contain the bare essentials – cultivating a sense of simplicity that’s free of distractions: “So, we’ve taken everything away that’s not necessary and in place we have the highest quality sleep essentials,” said Darija.

The essentials at Zedwell include a clutter-free environment, superior comfort beds with high-quality bedding, air-purifying filters, a well-designed lighting scheme that follows the circadian rhythm and noisereducing walls.

Darija explained how the absence of TVs and gadgets contribute to a restful experience: “this is what we focus on.

“It’s not about adding things to the room, but rather ensuring that all the senses are considered for the best night of rest and that the amenities provided are of the most premium quality.”

In the opinion of Darija, the number one essential for the perfect night’s sleep is the quality of the mattress and the material of the sheets: “You could create the best bedframe in the world, however if the mattress or sheets are uncomfortable, it results in a reduced quality night’s sleep.” At Zedwell, they use leading quality mattresses and top them with 100% Egyptian cotton sheets, known for conducting heat away from the body.

Marketing Lead at Silentnight Group, Martin Snelson, of course knows that comfort is paramount for guests when staying at a hotel and in his opinion, a comfortable mattress with appropriate firmness is key to offering a wide variety of guests with a restful night’s sleep.

“Mattresses with a zoned spring system that are highly breathable should be a key consideration for hoteliers.

“Durability is another vital factor. Hotel beds undergo consistent use, so selecting beds that can withstand the test of time is essential. Our hospitality mattresses have reinforced perimeters, as we know many guests use the

“It’s not about adding things to the room, but rather ensuring that all the senses are considered.”

Pg 16 – Hyatt Regency London

Pg 17 – Mollie’s Motel & Diner

edge of the bed for seating in addition to the primary use of sleeping. We also use Smartshield™ on our mattresses too, which eliminate bed bugs and dust mites to keep beds fresher for longer,” added Martin.

Martin also explained how collaborating with sleep experts presents an incredible opportunity for hoteliers to enhance their bedrooms. Sleep experts can provide valuable insights into the science of sleep and its impact on wellbeing for guests. Additionally, they can guide you in selecting not only the right beds, but also the right lighting, temperature control, and noise reduction measures to create an optimal sleep environment.

“The expertise of sleep professionals can lead to a wellexecuted bedroom that promotes a restful and rejuvenating guest experience, which is the best advocate for any hotel,” said Martin.

Ensuring your guests are excited about the bed as a whole is important in creating a lasting impression, and Martin agrees. He noted that creating excitement about hotel beds involves both the physical attributes of the bed and the guest’s overall experience. Martin recommends showcasing the bed as a centrepiece in the room through creative room layouts and attractive design.

“Utilise high-quality linens, comfortable pillows, and visually appealing bed frames to make the bed an inviting and alluring focal point.”

Engaging with guests through online platforms and marketing materials can build anticipation about the luxurious sleep experience your hotel provides. Highlight guest testimonials that rave about the exceptional sleep quality offered by your beds. Offering special packages that focus on relaxation and rejuvenation can further elevate the guest’s excitement about their stay, positioning the bed as a vital element in their memorable experience.

“Incorporating these strategies will not only make hotel beds a functional necessity but also a standout feature that contributes to the overall delight of your guests’ stay,” Martin finished.

Introducing personal touches to a bedroom are a relatively easy way to heighten the potential of the bedroom.

General Manager at Casa Baglioni in Milan, Lorenzo Soleri, explained that all bedrooms at Casa Baglioni offer personal touches to enhance guest experiences. Each room offers mid-century sofas and armchairs and books singing the praises of Milanese art and design that they encourage guests to read. Also decorative glass vases sit on bookshelves, which are designed to discreetly partition areas of the room.

The bathrooms also offer freestanding tubs and rainfall showers: “these are bathrooms that are designed to spend time in, not utilitarian spaces,” said Lorenzo.

Often personal touches come in the form of sweet treats positioned strategically in the bedroom and can work wonders in elevating a guest’s experience during their hotel visit.

Recent research from Border Biscuits shows that 96% people said they expect tea, coffee, and biscuits to be part of a complimentary package upon their stay. With this in mind, Stephanie Hickford, Brand Manager at Border Biscuits explained that she can firmly say there is a need for operators to strongly consider their in-room offering to

meet this expectation.

“With 60% of all biscuits consumed alongside a tea or coffee1, it’s key to include a range of hot beverages, as well as a kettle and a comprehensive biscuit selection in each room. At Border Biscuits, we know how special biscuit moments can be, which is why we provide a treat that is more than just an everyday biscuit. Our variety of flavours including Butterscotch Crunch, Divinely Chocolatey Cookies, Light & Buttery Viennese Whirl, Golden Oat Crunch, and Light & Buttery Shortbread Rings, means our biscuits are universally liked,” added Stephanie.

The positioning of sweet treats in a bedroom for a guest’s arrival is another area that should not be overlooked, meaning it must be done effectively.

Pg 18 – Mollie’s Motel & Diner

Border’s recent survey also revealed that biscuits are the number one preferred snack that guests want to find in a hotel room, and 62% of hotel guests would most like to see Border Biscuits in their room2.

“In line with this, offering a selection of Border Biscuits in direct line of sight from entry in-room, will not only help hoteliers elevate a guest’s experience, but it will also leave them with a long-lasting memory of their stay.

“Making sure the amenities are in full view or the cupboard is clearly labelled helps guests enjoy their stay and prevent frustration,” said Stephanie.

In terms of maximising potential in the bedroom, with the increasing demands and challenges in the hospitality industry, such as tight turnarounds and pressure on hotel staffing costs, it is even more important to ensure efficient room management, and Stephanie explained: “prepacked biscuits are a quick and efficient addition to the room during the turnover time and are easy to store in a compact and organised manner.”

Hanna Azzi, General Manager of Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai, also sees that sustainability is crucial in maximising potential within a hotel bedroom as it aligns with modern travelers’ preferences for eco-friendly options.

Implementing sustainable practices, such as using energy-efficient lighting, minimising single-use plastics, and sourcing locally-made furnishings, not only reduces the environmental impact but also enhances the overall

guest experience by showcasing the hotel’s commitment to responsible tourism. Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai has on top of that successfully implemented a water bottling plant in partnership with a Swiss-founded sustainable water system, BE WTR, aligning with the Dubai Can Initiative to eliminate single-use plastic bottles from rooms and restaurants. This initiative alone aims to reduce the usage of 700,000 plastic bottles annually.

Ambience is another factor which plays a huge role in the bedroom, with different elements able to be introduced to set a tone which will maximise potential.

At Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai, Hanna explained how they work with leading manufacturers to provide smart and energy-saving solutions to enhance their guests’ wellbeing and set the mood: “adjustable mood lighting provides a captivating atmosphere, and guests can change it to suit their needs in harmony with Circadian rhythms.”

What Hanna believes sets the venue truly apart is their choice of room scents, which adds to the overall sensory experience.

The bedroom is the heart of a hotel, and its quality directly impacts guest satisfaction, safety, and overall experience. By taking on the words of the experts above, whether it’s in-room biscuits or working with sleep experts, you’re bound to encourage guests to return for more.

1. Market Measures - Border Consumer research 2021

2. Vypr Survey 9th August 2022

Pg 20 – Virgin Hotels Edinburgh

SWEET GESTURES

Five reasons your in-room biscuit range is important to guests as told by Border Biscuits.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS THAT MATTER

Offering Border Biscuits in-room will help you elevate your guests’ experience and leave a lasting memory. The majority of guests (91%) say that complimentary items in their room make their stay much more memorable. Guests are looking for an enhanced experience when sleeping away from home, so it is important to go above and beyond when it comes to providing in-room refreshments. Border’s research shows that biscuits are the number one preferred hotel room snack guests are looking for and 62% of hotel guests would like to specifically see Border Biscuits .

AN AFTERNOON TREAT

Afternoon is the most popular time of day for eating biscuits . To cater to this, Border offers a range of chocolate coated biscuit bars in three flavours: Dark Chocolate Ginger Bar, Dark Chocolate Orange Bar, and Milk Chocolate Ginger Bar – there’s something for everyone. If you have an on-site café or lounge, you can upsell customers purchasing a hot drink with individually wrapped Border Biscuits available in a range of flavours.

ADDED VALUE IS KEY

Leaving complimentary snacks is viewed as a value-added service and can make guests feel cared for. Recent Border research shows that 96% of people said they expect tea, coffee, and biscuits to be part of a complimentary package during their stay. Therefore, there is a need to carefully consider your in-room offering to meet this expectation and add value to a stay. Offering Border Biscuits is one way that you can differentiate from competitors and build overall positive perceptions with guests. With Border’s premium offering and range of flavours, you can easily enhance your guests’ experience.

CONVENIENT SNACKING

Hotel guests can appreciate the convenience of having snacks readily available in their room. In-room snacks, such as individually wrapped Border Biscuits, allow guests to choose when it best suits them to enjoy a quick bite to eat or something to drink –whether that’s in their room or on the go. Border Biscuits features in 90 million occasions per year, and 40 million of those take place in OOH . Border Biscuits is a well-known brand that operators can trust to delight their guests.

A ‘HOME AWAY FROM HOME’ EXPERIENCE

It’s more important than ever for you to provide a warm welcome and pamper your guests. Stocking a trusted and well-known brand such as Border Biscuits can give guests that feeling of being at a home away from home. As more than half, 57%, of hotel goers would also enjoy complimentary refreshments upon arrival during the check-in process, stocking Border Biscuits is an easy way to create a warm welcome and help your hotel stand out.

border.co.uk

THE IMPORTANCE OF SLEEP

Adequate sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining your guest’s physical and mental health. The repercussions of insufficient sleep become apparent quite swiftly - a lack of energy, daytime drowsiness, reduced concentration, and even shifts in mood. Hannah Shore, Sleep Research Manager at Silentnight, outlines five key strategies which you could encourage in your guest’s routine during their stay to pave the way for a truly restful night’s sleep.

Sleep is a vital reset mechanism for both your body and mind. Upon waking, quality sleep leaves you rejuvenated, equipping you to confront whatever challenges the day presents. Beyond this, it safeguards your physical wellbeing, preserves mental health equilibrium, and plays a role in avoiding illnesses.

Neglecting adequate sleep adversely impacts cognitive functions, making it harder to focus, reason clearly, and

consolidate memories of their stay at your venue. Over prolonged periods, this neglect heightens the risk of certain medical conditions, including high blood pressure and diabetes.

The optimal goal is to attain 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Achieving this target promotes peak functioning, alertness, and overall health. Nevertheless, various factors can disrupt sleep quality, such as stress, medical conditions, lifestyle choices, and disturbances in your sleep environment.

Tackling these factors involves managing stress, adopting positive lifestyle changes, and adhering to a consistent sleep schedule. If your venue establishes the strategies below, you’ll help pave the way to a perfect night’s sleep, in turn, elevating the guest experience at your overnight stay venue.

Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule

Consistency in sleep timing is pivotal. Aligning your hotel’s operational schedule in line with the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep is a good way to reinforce your guest’s natural sleep-wake cycle, promoting a better quality sleep. You can do this by reducing noise and dimming lights around the hotel venue after evening dinner service. This will make way for some consistency, which in turn helps prime guests for their sleep cycle. Whilst you can’t dictate to your guests when they should sleep and how long for, making subtle changes to operational routines will help promote sleep, and hopefully align with guests’ own sleeping routines.

Guide Guest’s Diet and Hydration

Your guest’s dietary habits will significantly influence their sleep quality. For guests who are after a better night’s sleep, your food and beverage staff can promote lighter meals and no consumption of alcohol or caffeine before bed. These substances can impair sleep quality and lead to grogginess upon waking. Alcohol disrupts sleep patterns, rendering sleep less rejuvenating, while caffeine acts as a stimulant, hampering sleep initiation.

Regular Exercise

Engaging in regular, moderate exercise not only bolsters your guest’s physical and mental wellbeing but also aids in achieving restorative sleep. When timed appropriately, exercise promotes quicker sleep onset, extends sleep duration, and enhances sleep quality.

Tackling Worries

Confronting worries during the day can prevent their intrusion at bedtime. Offer guests a notepad by their bedside for any late-night epiphanies. Suggest jotting down their thoughts to address them the following day. Proactively managing stress through organisation, prioritisation, and task-sharing can foster a sense of calm and reduce night time anxiety, thus facilitating better sleep.

Relaxing Sleep Sounds

Whether it’s the gentle lull of ocean waves, the pitter-patter of rainfall, or calming white noise, soothing sounds offer a straightforward yet potent method for achieving restful sleep. Purposefully designed sleep sounds contribute to lower blood pressure, a slower heart rate, and diminished anxiety. By cultivating a relaxed mental state, you create a favourable environment for your guest’s perfect night sleep. www.silentnight.co.uk

TRENDS SHAPING THE MARKET

Sustainable Hospitality

Sustainability has become a focal point for the UK hotel market. Travellers are actively seeking eco-friendly accommodation options. From energy-efficient systems and waste reduction efforts to locally sourced amenities, hotels are investing in green initiatives to align with conscious consumer values. Products such as eco-friendly linens and energy-saving appliances found on platforms like HotelBuyer.co.uk are becoming essential tools.

Tech-Driven Personalisation

Technology is transforming the way hotels interact with guests. Personalised experiences are being enhanced through the use of AI-powered chatbots, allowing guests to make requests, inquire about amenities, and receive recommendations seamlessly. Hotels are also embracing smart room systems that adjust lighting, temperature, and entertainment preferences to suit individual tastes.

Wellness and Wellbeing

The pandemic has reinforced the importance of wellbeing and hotels are incorporating wellness offerings to cater to health-conscious travellers, from in-room fitness equipment to dedicated meditation spaces. The availability of wellness products on platforms like hotel-buyer.co.uk makes it convenient for hoteliers to curate spaces that prioritise wellbeing.

Contactless Services

From mobile check-ins and digital room keys to cashless transactions, hotels are minimising physical contact points while optimising convenience. Innovative products such as contactless payment systems and mobile check-in solutions streamline these processes.

Flexible Spaces

Hotels are incorporating multifunctional areas that can

adapt to various needs, from co-working spaces to private event venues. These versatile spaces cater to the demands of remote work, meetings, and gatherings, providing guests with adaptable environments.

Culinary Experiences

From farm-to-table dining experiences to interactive cooking classes, hotels are focusing on creating memorable gastronomic journeys for their guests. Access to high-quality kitchen equipment and dining supplies from platforms like Hotel-Buyer.co.uk empowers hotels to craft exceptional dining experiences.

In the dynamic landscape of the UK hotel market, these trends underscore the industry’s commitment to enhancing guest satisfaction, adapting to changing times, and embracing innovation. Hoteliers keen on staying ahead of the curve can leverage platforms like hotel-buyer. co.uk to discover a wide range of products and solutions that align with these emerging trends. By embracing sustainability, technology, wellness, flexibility, and culinary excellence, hotels are not only meeting the expectations of modern travellers but also shaping the future of the hospitality landscape.

www.hotel-buyer.co.uk

With changing traveller preferences, technological advancements, and the ongoing impact of global events, the UK hotel market is witnessing a range of trends that are reshaping guest experiences. From sustainability initiatives to tech integrations, here are some hotel trends taking centre stage, as told by Hotel Buyer.

DESIGNED FOR YOU

In an exclusive interview with Keri Blunden, Contract Sales Manager at Simba Sleep, we discover their latest mattress launch, designed specifically for hotels.

What is the Simba Contract Mattress?

Simba’s new contract mattress range features three designs: the Pro Contract, Luxe Contract and our most sustainable mattress, the Green Label Contract. Building on our reputation as the world’s most 5-star rated mattress brand, our aim is to transform the sleep of hotel guests with a range of designs that feature all our signature sleep technology and comfort, while meeting the needs of the hotel market.

By offering a choice of contract mattresses Simba offers clients award-winning comfort at different price points, as well as providing exceptional service - from on-site consultation and bespoke options, to convenient, rolled delivery and fully recyclable products.

What makes the Simba contract mattress different to others on the market?

Our mission has always been to improve sleep using innovation and engineering expertise. This unique approach has resulted in Simba’s patented Hybrid® technology, which combines layers of our patented titanium Aerocoil® micro springs with our cooling, graphite-infused Simbatex® foam; our mattresses also feature a knitted, anti-allergy sleep surface and our ‘No-roll off’ zoned Supportcore™ spring unit for 100% edge-to-edge support.

The overall result is cooler, cloud-like comfort that adjusts dynamically to the sleeper’s body, offering wholebody support and soothing pressure relief.

A hotel mattress must suit a variety of guests, how does the contract mattress address this?

Our exclusive technology means that Simba Hybrid mattresses are comfortable for everyone, whatever their shape or sleeping style. Key to this are Simba’s incredible upper comfort layers and supportive base layers: our patented Aerocoil® micro springs nestle unnoticed towards the top of the mattress, but each spring compresses gently in response to body weight giving a hugged, floating sensation. Meanwhile the base layers help maintain correct spinal alignment which is essential for comfort, while also providing gentler supportive zoned based layers and extra cushioning for the shoulders and back.

How do Simba address the issue of sustainability in their ethos?

We were very proud to become the UK’s first B Corporation™ certified sleep brand this year- a major milestone for the company’s ambitious net zero target of 2030. In addition, our mattresses are made in local factories to reduce transport emissions, from 100% recyclable materials with reduced or no foam content. All foam used is CertiPUR® verified however, meaning it’s free of environmental pollutants. To try the range and find out more, visit Simba at the Independent Hotel Show, stand 1230. Email: wholesale@simbasleep.com simbasleep.com

A COSMETIC JOURNEY

In

an exclusive editorial with the team at Gfl, the brand behind well-known names such as Geneva Guild, Anyah and Prija, they explain why they have been hoteliers’ chosen cosmetic provider for the last 15 years.

Our history

Gfl was established in 1995 and is now the largest, independently owned, manufacturer of hotel cosmetics in Europe. We represent the true essence of ‘Made in Italy’. We are a Swiss company, headquartered in Lugano, with a state-of-the-art, 42,000 square metre manufacturing plant located near Milan. We invest in technology and innovation, selecting talented and well recognised partners that can guarantee the highest standards and maximum efficiency.

Our range of products suit all venues and include dispensers in a pump and squeeze form, wipes, doypacks, sachet and solid soaps which are blended and extruded on site. With our in-house printing department, we offer flexible packaging and customised labels for your unique hotel branding.

With more than 28 years of experience, we know exactly how to design a unique guest journey. Gfl provides a wide collection of brands and scents for luxury venues to choose from fine perfumery brands, such as: Prija, Acca Kappa and

Galimard to fashion brands like Lanvin. Alternatively, our lifestyle brands include, Elemental Herbology and LAFCO New York. If your venue has a sustainable ethos, we offer green certified brands: The Rerum Natura, Osme, Anyah, Hopal and Geneva Green. Thanks to our experience and production capabilities, we have mastered the creation of innovative cosmetic collections and customised contract solution.

Our mission

We strive to enhance our leadership in the cosmetic industry by cultivating our distinctive strengths: producing high-quality products and using innovative solutions that have a positive impact on sustainability.

With every project, production starts from a principle of conservation and preservation and we are always looking for innovative ways to reduce waste and to pursue sustainability.

We apply contemporary concepts and select the highest

quality raw materials to create our formulations. From environmentally-friendly cosmetics with certifications including Cosmos organic, Nordic Ecolabel, Eu Ecolabel and RSPO certified mass balance to high-impact luxury collections with unforgettable scents.

We work collectively throughout the brand to achieve our premium status. We only work with certified suppliers to ensure that the materials adhere to the highest quality standards. Our cosmetic laboratory favours ingredients of natural origin, which are organic or eco-certified. Our chemists use advanced green technologies to create powerful and safe formulations and all our finished products are clinically tested.

Sustainability

We design our products with sustainability in mind, our eco-design pillars focus on plastic reduction, efficiency maximisation, and circular management of all resources involved in creating value for our customers.

At Gfl we apply green thinking to every action to benefit the environment and our customers and we are committed to making a positive impact on the environment by implementing effective green practices. For many years we have been moving from virgin to Post-Consumer recycled plastic, which reduces our CO2 impact and emissions and

all our Gfl products are mostly produced using (r)PET because of its excellent recycling capabilities.

We are continuously looking for innovative packaging to increase recyclability such as our “ECO” easy to-peel label, laser coding, or our soap packaging that can be recycled as paper and we favour the use of cosmetics with less impact on the aquatic ecosystem. Eu Ecolabel, Cosmos, Nordic Ecolabel are only some examples of our contribution to reduce the CVD-TOX.

Sustainably produced recyclable, single dose, sealed dispenser, and refillable dispenser products are all required in today’s hotel. Gfl are committed to creating high-quality cosmetics, available in packaging which best suits our customers’ requirements.

For further information about Gfl, our products or solutions please visit www.gflcosmetics.com or email uk@gflcosmetics.com

“With more than 28 years of experience, we know how to design a unique guest journey.”

EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS

It is not very often a brand can make waves in such an established industry, but that is exactly what GROWN ALCHEMIST has done. Meet the innovative new brand on the spa block, a biological beauty brand for the design conscious.

We create the optimal conditions for your skin to function and thrive. Bioadvanced, clinically proven formulas which work in harmony with the skin, delivered through our cleanse, renew, activate+ method. We believe HEALTH = FUNCTION = BEAUTY.

Over the past year we have launched into select spas across the UK and Ireland, including; Nobu Hotel London Portman Square, Goodwood Estate, The Lowry, The Montenotte Hotel and The Carlton Tower Jumeirah, to name but a few. We’re excited to continue building our spa portfolio nationwide, whilst also expanding further into Europe.

Our focus remains on working with partners that align well with our values and reflect the aesthetics of our brand. For example, Lifehouse Spa & Hotel, where you can experience the complete GROWN ALCHEMIST treatment menu and select treatments as part of their packages, is the perfect partner to hero our sustainability efforts.

Whereas with our flagship spa partner, the ever chic and minimalistic Nobu Hotel London Portman Square, there is an obvious synergy visually and we are also present in every room with amenities.

We are not your typical spa brand, our urban ‘lab chic’ look and feel allows spas to offer something very different to their guests. Not only does GROWN ALCHEMIST have a distinctive visual aesthetic, but we also use advanced facial techniques for instant sculpting and rejuvenated results, as opposed to being machine led.

Our mission is to increase awareness of GROWN ALCHEMIST within the spa industry and continue to provide and develop innovative treatments within our space. We will do this by focusing on our two trademark treatments; Regenerator Facial + Body Release Massage, which use a combination of signature techniques, including; neurolymphatic stimulation, an anti-pollution mist infusion, cryotherapy and cupping, working to address the impacts of busy, modern lifestyles.

We also understand the importance of education and

want to be market leaders within our field. Providing not only best-in-class initial treatment training but also ongoing support and refresher days to build therapist confidence whilst retaining excellent customer experience.

When it comes to sustainability, we continue to make improvements to our best-in-class packaging, using 100% recycled aluminum tubes and PET bottles, plus recyclable FSC cartons across the range. In terms of formulation, we create products using advanced green chemistry and >94% high quality natural ingredients. We have also been certified by Positive Luxury, indicated by the Butterfly Mark on our packaging, meaning that we deliver real changepositively impacting people and nature.

The new SKIN RENEWAL range features adaptogenpowered formulas that help skin adapt to find balance in the presence dermal dysfunction [stress] caused by climate, pollution and lifestyle. When the skin is less stressed, healthy skin functions break down less.

Enter Skin Renewal Serum. An antioxidant-rich nighttime serum powered by Ashwagandha, Niacinamide and Echinacea to hydrate, defend and support a revitalized skin barrier for improved texture and radiance.

It is clinically proven to strengthen the skin barrier by up to 27% in 12 hours* and 94% of users said this product leaves their skin soft and smooth**.

Here’s what our partners have to say.

‘From the very second we started chatting, we realised Grown Alchemist and Goodwood Wellbeing values align perfectly. The most exciting part is the collaboration and

creative journey we go on to deliver outstanding customer moments. Grown Alchemist are an incredible power team and a total delight to work with!’ - Jen Evans-Brewer, Head of Health and Wellbeing at Goodwood.

‘At Lifehouse we are really enjoying our new partnership with Grown Alchemist. Not only is it an exciting new brand to work with, but the whole team behind it and the support you receive are absolutely first class.’ - Sarah Tester, Finance and Operations Director at Lifehouse Spa & Hotel.

‘Grown Alchemist has been proudly stocked in all our guest bathrooms since the hotel’s £100 million refurbishment in 2021. Not only is Grown Alchemist a youthful and inventive skincare brand, their scientifically–innovative formulas are capable of influencing the way the body repairs and regenerates the skin, which is why we also offer our guests and visitors an array of carefully selected treatments at The Peak Fitness Club and Spa, located on the 2nd Floor. From hydrating facial serums and beautifully scented cleansers to that all important SPF cream, Grown Alchemist looks to the future to prevent ageing and protect the skin from modern daily life.” - Chiara Vierchwood, Hotel Manager at The Carlton Tower Jumeriah.

Contact Amy Roberts, Head of Retail + Spa at GROWN ALCHEMIST: amy.roberts@grownalchemist.com grownalchemist.com/uk/spa-partnerships

CATCHING Z’S

In an exclusive interview with David Lawrenson, Sales Director from Silentnight, we learn more about why they are the UK’s most trusted sleep brand and why their products are hotelier’s choice due to their commitment to staying ahead of the industry’s ever-changing trends and desires.

Why is Silentnight the UK’s most trusted sleep brand?

In the world of sleep, few names resonate as powerfully as Silentnight. For decades, our brand has held an unwavering commitment to revolutionising the way the world sleeps. This lasting trust is not solely built on a reputation; it’s rooted in a legacy of consistent quality, innovation, and a deep understanding of the art of sleep. We have earned our place as the UK’s most trusted sleep brand through a solid dedication to creating sleep solutions that truly make a difference in people’s lives. With a relentless focus on comfort, durability, sustainability, and innovation, Silentnight’s mission is to ensure every sleeper gets the quality rest they need, wherever they find themselves.

How has Silentnight developed throughout the years?

What started as a humble endeavour to provide superior beds has blossomed into an iconic brand that sets industry standards. Our brand’s commitment to staying ahead of

the curve is evident in the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies, high-quality sustainable materials, and innovative designs. Over the years, Silentnight has blended the principles of tradition with the advancements of modernity, offering a range of sleep solutions that cater to diverse needs and preferences of both sleepers as well as hoteliers.

How does Silentnight work in line with

sustainability?

Silentnight’s dedication to quality sleep extends beyond the confines of bedrooms. In a world where environmental consciousness is paramount, our brand has taken bold strides towards sustainability. From sourcing eco-friendly materials to implementing energy-efficient manufacturing processes, Silentnight actively minimises its ecological footprint. This commitment extends to our products, which are designed for durability, reducing the need for frequent replacements and subsequently lessening waste. Our brand believes in boldness and are the first sleep brand to commit to being net

zero by 2040, 10 years ahead of the Paris Agreement, making significant strides on our journey by reducing direct carbon emissions by -49% and transitioning delivery fleets to the use of 100% renewable energy.

How does Silentnight’s products ensure a good night’s sleep for a range of hotel guests?

Our brand’s range of sleep solutions caters to the diverse needs of hotel guests, ensuring that every stay is defined by impeccable rest. Our collection of mattresses are designed with the idea that there’s a different type of sleeper on it every night. With that, the approach is to consistently create mattresses that offer comfort, support, and durability for every sleeper. From highly breathable sleep surfaces,

supportive zoned pocket-springs to ultra-responsive nano springs, every guest is guaranteed to have a great night’s sleep, because after all a well-rested guest is the best advocate for any hotel. Our brand’s commitment to quality and innovation in this sector mirrors our dedication to individual consumers, allowing hoteliers to uphold their reputation for exceptional hospitality.

www.silentnight.co.uk

“The brand’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve is evident in the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies, high-quality sustainable materials, and innovative designs.”

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS

With an unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation, Siemlus offers a suite of services that span across various crucial aspects of the hospitality sector. In this exclusive editorial, Siemlus announce their latest partner integration that underscores why they should be your preferred hospitality technology supplier.

Siemlus is the leading technology consultancy for hospitality and has collaborated with leading global companies such as Onity and Hoteza, and the world’s most prominent hotel brands, including leading luxury independents such as Castlebridge Group, who regard them as a preferred supplier.

In an evolutionary step that is poised to transform the digital guest experience, Hoteza a Siemlus partner, and trailblazing leader in digital guest engagement and communication solutions, has forged a powerful alliance with another long-standing Siemlus partner Onity, a worldwide pioneer in hotel door locking solutions.

The Partnership

The strategic partnership heralds a new era of guest convenience and security, with the integration of Hoteza’s mobile key technology seamlessly into Onity’s hotel door locks. This collaboration not only represents a leap forward in technological innovation but also holds the promise of elevating the digital guest experience to new heights. All now supported by Siemlus as the official installer and support partner in UK.

Hoteza’s innovative Mobile Apps offer hotels the opportunity to engage with guests before, during, and after their stay. These apps can provide a range of functionalities, from mobile check-in and keyless room entry to real-time communication with the front desk.

Traditionally, key cards and room access have long been a focal point for hotels aiming to optimise guest convenience and security. With the advent of mobile key technology, guests are now granted the power to access their accommodations directly through their smartphones, eliminating the need for physical key cards and simplifying the check-in process.

“Siemlus are the dedicated UK hospitality partner

and distributor. Onity partnered with Siemlus for their unrivalled support across UK hotels when it comes to servicing existing and new clients.” Said Simon Walden, UK Sales Director, Onity UK.

The integration brings forth a plethora of benefits for hoteliers and guests:

Contactless Convenience

Guests can now effortlessly unlock their room doors using their smartphones, minimising the hassle of managing and safeguarding physical key cards. This touch less solution aligns perfectly with the evolving hygiene-conscious preferences of modern travellers.

Effortless Check-In

Bid farewell to the traditional check-in process. Hoteza’s mobile keys, now compatible with Onity’s locks, enable guests to check-in remotely and bypass the front desk entirely. This time-saving feature means more time for relaxation or business activities.

Enhanced Security

The amalgamation of Hoteza and Onity’s expertise in technology ensures robust security measures. Mobile keys are encrypted and authenticated, offering a secure access method that reduces the risk of unauthorised entry.

Personalised Guest Experience

Beyond just access, mobile keys can be combined with Hoteza’s guest engagement solutions to provide personalised services. Guests can receive real-time information, special offers, and tailored recommendations right on their mobile devices.

Seamless Travel

With mobile keys at their disposal, guests can seamlessly move between different locations within a hotel property, accessing various areas such as their room, gym, pool, and more with ease.

Remote Control

In an industry-first innovation, guests can even control room amenities using their smartphones, adjusting lighting, temperature, and more before even setting foot in their room.

The Future of Hospitality: Innovation in Every Key Tap

The collaboration not only raises the bar for guest convenience and security but also signals a shift toward a

more seamless, connected, and immersive guest journey. This amalgamation presents a future where a single tap of a smartphone unlocks a world of unparalleled experiences. With the Hoteza App, user-friendly interface, and a wide selection of content, including movies, shows, and information about the hotel’s amenities, guests can enjoy a personalised and immersive stay.

Hoteza offers a diverse range of products that cater to the ever-evolving needs of the hospitality industry. From their flagship offerings like cutting-edge interactive TV solutions, which transforms the in-room entertainment experience for guests, to comprehensive high-speed internet that ensures seamless connectivity for both guests and hotel operations.

With the increasing reliance on technology, fast and reliable Wi-Fi has become a critical factor in guest satisfaction. Hoteza’s internet solution includes features such as user authentication, bandwidth management, and the ability to create customised login pages, allowing hotels to tailor the online experience to their brand.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the integration of Hoteza and Onity mobile key technology represents a forward leap in the hospitality sector. By combining cutting-edge digital solutions with Siemlus installation and support, this integration sets a new standard for convenience, security, and guest-centric innovation.

Get in touch at Siemlus.com to find out more

WHERE CREATIVE JUICES FLOW

Located in Southbank, where art, culture and travel collide, Bankside Hotel London features as October’s Hotel of the Month. General Manager, Philip Steiner reveals how the art-focused venue has developed a competitive edge with its informal yet refined atmosphere and personal touches.

The inspiration behind Bankside Hotel lies in its connection to the vibrant Southbank neighbourhood. The narrative-driven design embodies the area’s history and artistic vibrancy, drawing significantly from the hotel’s close connections to publishing houses, theatres and globally acclaimed modern art.

Philip Steiner was appointed as General Manager in Autumn 2023, with an aim to blend his hospitality experience and passion for art and the London cultural scene to enhance the hotel’s strong links with the local community and artists – especially through its Artist

in Residence programme. Using this to push London Bankside’s success, Philip has driven Bankside into TripAdvisor’s London top 10, onto the pages of Vogue and Forbes all while revealing a 5.6% increase in staff satisfaction and nearly doubling the hotel’s Gross Operating Profits.

Art takes centre stage at Bankside Hotel, transcending mere decoration. Philip explained their commitment to arts is seen through its curated collection of diverse creative expressions throughout the venue, from the walls to the furniture, elevated by its Artist in Residence Programme.

“The Artist in Residence programme is an initiative where local emerging artists take up residency in the hotel’s Art Maker’s Studio, a permanent creative space with everchanging artworks,” said Philip .

The programme encourages guests to immerse themselves in the evolving artist scene, witnessing creative processes at work. The venue’s programme has also created a unique business platform for artists, with the sale of over 100 artworks with all commissions directly supporting the creator.

At London Bankside, a great customer experience is driven by personalised service and proactive guest satisfaction efforts. One notable effort is their latest launch, The Canine Concierge Service, presenting dogowning guests with the best dog-friendly attractions, restaurants and places to walk in London throughout their stay.

To create unforgettable experiences, the team proactively researched their passions and interests to create memorable surprises and leave special touches in their rooms. One family, for example, expressed their child’s love for Harry Potter and so staff decorated their room with a Harry Potter theme.

When asked about the venue’s interior design, Philip mentioned the influence of local craftsmanship: “Notable features include a first-floor library transitioning to an outdoor deck and a lobby with a white chimney sculpture and bespoke walnut table, embodying the ethos of local craftsmanship and the vibrant SE1 community.”

The interior design aims to create an inviting atmosphere that appeals to creative professionals and cultural enthusiasts, offering an airy-residential atmosphere that blurs the boundaries between work and play.

“It acts as a social hub for anyone with a passion for culture, art, food and drink” Philip added.

Bankside Hotel’s creative spirit extends to The Art Yard Bar and Kitchen, where menus are crafted to reflect artistry. In August, they launched a partnership between the Artist in Residence and chef, resulting in the ‘Kaced x Matsuyama’ collaboration. This fusion of art and food created a dish resembling traditional artist canvases, featuring Rump of Lamb on Smoked Aubergine Miso Purée. The lamb’s slices ingeniously recreated window shapes, adorned with edible flowers that echoed the lush plantings visible from the Art Studio.

Philip uses the exciting opportunities and notable challenges in the hospitality market to help direct the venue, he noted how guests are now actively seeking hotels that, “not only encapsulate the spirit of their surroundings but also cultivate a deep sense of community and engagement in the guest experience that they offer.” At Bankside, this principle resonates profoundly with the dynamic and artistic ambiance of the Southbank while maintaining its uniqueness through the ever-evolving art showcased within its walls.

The venue takes into account the industry’s demand for sustainable initiatives, at Bankside their commitment to achieving B Corp standards by 2025 is a testament to their proactive action to make a positive impact on the environment.

Philip emphasised the importance of venues taking into account the labour market and consequent pressure on wages, meaning that staff need to be supported to ensure positive wellbeing: “Bankside takes pride in creating an atmosphere where team members truly feel like they belong. Examples include the launch of ‘Toast to Thursday’ social events and ‘Bankside Breakfast’ sessions to foster staff unity and a sense of belonging.”

@banksidehotel

DON’T BOTTLE IT!

Please introduce us to the brand and where the idea came from?

In 2014, after seeing the devastating effects of plastic pollution in Thailand, our founders Josh, Ariel and Perry came together to imagine a better solution than plastic bottles of water.

Spotting a lot of brands they knew from home, bottled water seemed to be the biggest culprit. That got them thinking and after a lot of research, they discovered that aluminium recycles forever and is the most recycled drinks container on earth, according to global figures from the International Aluminium Institute (AI). They were blown away by the statistics and recognising the benefits of aluminium packaging, they introduced the UK’s first canned water brand to the market, starting a journey powered by purpose and fuelled by authenticity and passion.

How can Cano Water elevate the client experience within a hotel?

Combining a sustainable and convenient alternative to single use plastic, with an eye-catching design, Cano Water will offer your clients a luxurious addition to their visit and enhance their stay with you.

What makes Cano Water stand out from other refreshment options on the market?

Cano Water has never sold a plastic bottle and never will. With both resealable and ring pull options, packaged in sleek and minimalistic black and white cans, Cano Water stands out from the rest, offering a premium feel. Sourced and filled directly at the foothills of the Austrian Alps, our water is pure and tastes incredible. Sealed from light and air, our still and sparkling natural spring water cans stay cooler and fresher for longer, ensuring freshness with every sip.

How can our readers work with you?

If you would like to stock our range, we work with a variety of wholesalers and we sell our range through Amazon.

Leading the way for a more sustainable future, what started out as an eye-opening trip abroad for three friends became a mission to reduce single-use plastic. We caught up with the team at Cano Water as they reveal details on the brand and exactly how they made a better way to drink water, providing the perfect solution for your in-hotel hydration.

THE ART OF TASTE

Come with us behind the scenes to discover how Due Fratelli’s coffee blend, a firm favourite amongst luxury hotels, is created.

Hotel guests around the world can attest to the fact that there is something truly magical about that perfect cup of coffee. It’s not just about the caffeine kick; it’s the aromatic aroma, the rich flavour, and the smoothness that tantalize their taste buds and brighten their mornings with you.

Behind the scenes of this coffee experience lies a captivating process known as coffee blending, where the art of combining different beans takes place to create a harmonious symphony of flavours.

Master blenders meticulously select beans from various origins, each bringing its own distinctive characteristics, and carefully combine them to achieve a desired flavour profile. We believe that the foundation of a great blend lies in the exceptional quality of its individual components.

By starting with superior beans, we set the stage for a truly exceptional coffee experience. Each bean is handpicked, sourced from specific regions known for their unique flavour profiles, and subjected to rigorous quality control measures.

The artistry of coffee blending extends beyond simply mixing beans together. It involves a deep understanding of taste profiles and the ability to balance different elements. The goal is to achieve consistency, ensuring that every cup of coffee brewed from the blend delivers the same delightful flavours time and time again.

Blending also allows us to cater to your guest’s specific preferences or represent your venue’s regional tastes. Take our Milano blend, for instance. Inspired by the flavours of Northern Italy, it captures the essence of the region in every sip. It’s a testament to how blending can encapsulate the distinctiveness of a particular place and transport your taste buds to a whole new world.

Moreover, coffee blending opens up endless possibilities when it comes to compatibility with different water types or milk choices, both dairy and non-dairy. The interaction between coffee and water can profoundly influence the final taste. Blends are meticulously designed to work in harmony with various water profiles, ensuring that no matter where you are, you can enjoy a consistently delicious cup of coffee.

If you’re curious to explore the world of coffee blending, we invite you to visit our showroom. Our knowledgeable staff will guide you through an immersive experience, helping you discover the nuances of various blends and find the perfect cup of coffee that suits your preferences.

Coffee blending is an art form, and we’re excited to share it with you.

Give us a call and arrange a visit to our showroom, where the captivating world of coffee blending awaits. Prepare to embark on a sensory journey like no other, and unlock a realm of flavours that will redefine your coffee experience.

For more information see www.freshpac.co.uk / www.duefratellicoffee.co.uk

FIVE MINUTES WITH…

Technology hospitality expert, Ryan Haynes, who helps us get a grasp on the latest developments in tech and where it’s heading in the future.

Please tell us about your expertise in the hospitality industry.

I worked in numerous marketing and communications agencies, collaborating with the likes of Vrbo (HomeAway), Pegasus, IDeaS and eRevMax. Specialising in hospitality and travel technology, I set up Haynes MarComs in 2018, to help bridge the gap between hospitality companies and technology solution providers through creative B2B campaigns, content marketing, public relations, and more. We set up the podcast ‘Travel Market Life’ to explore technology decision making and digitalisation, including the ‘Hoteliers’ Voice’ series which is a deep dive into the minds of leading hoteliers.

You represent a variety of hospitality tech brands, in your opinion, what are the most exciting advances and how will these benefit hotels?

There have been great advancements in recent years, but hospitality is still trailing behind many sectors. This is often due to the complexity of operations and the number of stakeholders involved such as on-site staff, guests, and third party resellers and operators. As a consequence the sector deals with a myriad of legacy tech and new solutions. The biggest hurdle to overcome is integration; where there is a necessity to share data across systems.

Staff technology is going to be a big driver for business success - but more importantly for recruitment and retention, especially for the younger generations entering the workplace - how do you spark interest and provide tools that are fully integrated? We’re seeing the benefits in housekeeping and operations, as well as how to service guests more efficiently while improving revenue opportunities.

Automation is becoming more accessible, and with more use cases hoteliers understand the value it offers, so we should see hotels less pressured by administration and able to focus on the service element and strategic drivers.

Looking to the future, where do you see hospitality’s relationship with technology?

Hospitality is unique in the predominantly human service needed to provide tangible experiences. Because of this, it’s essential we don’t try to imitate every process and procedure digitally, because it can take away from the ‘art of hospitality’. Naturally, older systems are moving to the Cloud and in the coming years we’ll see much greater consolidation of the tech market. This will help reduce the number of system providers and contractors that businesses need in place. The industry as a whole needs to work harder at partnerships to deliver complete systems to hoteliers, rather than hoteliers having to piece it together. Such fragmentation causes the biggest delay in decision making and can limit the solutions available to hotels. Hospitality management will need the skills to manage both people and technology to ensure guests enjoy the best experience. It’s a balance that needs to be found - not over-relying on tech, but using it where it is most fitting.

www.haynesmarcoms.agency

REVOLUTIONISING MINERAL WATER

LUQEL: a mains-fed mineralised water dispenser with leading reverse osmosis filtration and hygiene. Dispensing 30 sommelier designed water tastes across a range of temperatures from 4 –95o C, plus carbonation. Comes with dispense payment options, volume tracking and remote diagnostics.

Removes micro-impurities such as bacteria, heavy-metals, and nano-plastics. Removes the need to buy mineral water and transport it around the world. Removes the storage, chilling, merchandising, and recycling of packaging within a business.

Help remove packaging waste from our planet.

luqel-water.com

sales.uk@luqel-water.com

The Bradley Hare - Image by Martin Morrell

MAKE YOUR MARK

With help from industry experts, we look at how to effectively reflect your ethos through your interior design, and the importance of this.

Interior design can offer an opportunity to serve as a visual representation of your hotel’s brand identity and values. When guests enter your venue, if the design elements immediately convey the hotel’s ethos, this can create a consistent and more memorable experience. This consistency, in turn, can build trust and enable guests to connect with your brand on a deeper level.

In order to showcase the personality of your brand through design, drawing inspiration from surroundings is a great place to start. Milan’s Casa Baglioni is located in the design district of Brera - an area known as the ‘artists’ district’, recognised for its timeless charm and considered the most beautiful in Milan.

Lorenzo Soleri, General Manager at Casa Baglioni in Milan, explained how they worked with local Milanese architects, Spagnulo & Partners, for the design, as the team wanted the hotel spaces to draw inspiration from the art and design world of 1960s Milan.

The hotel’s furnishings, crafted by Italian artisans, also echo the famous works of Milanese sculptors and artists –a large chandelier is reminiscent of Lucio Fontana’s neon artwork (on display at the nearby Museo del Novecento), while ceilings and floors feature colours and geometric shapes once favoured by Gio Ponti.

Lorenzo explained: “Precisely, as the name suggests, Casa Baglioni reflects a new concept of hospitality, where the settings – thanks to a refined combination of colours,

materials and textures – are like those of an elegant home in the Brera zone: sophisticated, welcoming and precious at the same time.

“Our common spaces, such as the lobby and the second common living area, ‘salotto’, offer an in-house bar corner for guests to sit and relax, to reinforce a ‘feel at home’ concept as soon as they walk through the doors.”

A venue’s layout and spatial organisation can have a drastic effect in reinforcing a brand’s message, and it’s Casa Baglioni’s subtle combination of textures and colours that add fluidity to the space.

“For example, decorative glass vases, that sit on bookshelves in the bedrooms, have been designed to discreetly partition areas of the room. Our larger rooms are cleverly zoned using chrome dividers, curved walls and distinctly high ceilings to maximise space and views,” said Lorenzo.

Also noticing the importance of spatial organisation and design in emphasising a venue’s ethos is Kajsa Krause, Principal and Director of Strategy at Champalimaud Design, who sees how the layout and spatial planning of a hotel directly influences how guests will experience and interact with the different spaces.

“Flow, furniture placement and the points of connection between the discrete spaces all have an impact. Sensory management is a key component of a guest’s journey, and the best designs are attuned to appeal to all of a visitor’s senses. To provide a complete ambiance, from lighting and

textures to sounds, scents and tastings, throughout the journey is the key to creating the most memorable and transformative spaces,” said Kajsa.

In Kajsa and her team’s design for the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, they layered cut-outs based on Arabic geometric patterns for door signage, backlit for added ambiance, which seamlessly integrated into the design, while providing functional direction for guests.

Kajsa sees that every great hotel begins with a strong concept, rooted in all that makes the property unique: identity, history and location: “This involves a deep understanding of the ethos that the hotel represents, and the emotions that it hopes to evoke in guests. Consider elements that tell a story and resonate with the hotel’s brand message. At the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, we drew inspiration from the destination’s ancient history, ultimately designing our interiors around a theme of ‘The Land where the Ocean meets the Desert’.”

Both furniture and décor play a huge role in communicating a hotel’s values to consumers, as they collectively work to represent these through their choice of materials, craftsmanship and design.

Kajsa explained how high-quality, sustainably sourced furniture echoes a commitment to environmental responsibility, while unique, handcrafted pieces can showcase support for local artisans.

With the demand for technology in hospitality continuing to grow, modern venues which pride themselves on keeping up-to-date with tendencies must now consider the role that tech integration can play in reflecting a hotel’s ethos.

Technology can be integrated into a hotel’s interior design to enhance guest experience and reflect its ethos— whether that be wellness, personalisation or service. Smart lighting, climate control and room access can provide convenience and customisation, while advanced audiovisual equipment can elevate entertainment options.

Kajsa believes that technology should add value to the overall guest experience, while remaining entirely unobtrusive: “This is especially important for hotels that aim to build a harmony between modernity and tradition.”

To ensure your venue doesn’t fall behind or become outdated, certifying that your interior design evolves to reflect changes in your ethos, or brand identity, over time is essential. In order to do this, you should stay sharply attuned to guests’ changing lifestyles and needs. Kajsa recommends regularly reviewing and refreshing your interior design to reflect any shifts in the hotel’s ethos or brand identity: “Collaborate with interior designers who can incorporate new elements, while preserving the hotel’s unique character and heritage. Consider repurposing existing furniture or décor, updating colour schemes or

Pg 48 left – Hotel Amano

Pg 48 right – Lime Wood Hotel – Image by Jake Eastham

Pg 49 - Hotel Amano

“Sensory management is a key component of a guest’s journey.”

incorporating new technology to keep the interiors current and appealing,” finished Kajsa.

Vassilis Iosifidis, Founder and Owner of Aristi Mountain Resort and Villas, sees that, while flexibility is important in order to stay relevant, it’s also a good idea to maintain some core design elements that are timeless and representative of your brand’s essence: “This provides a sense of continuity and familiarity, even as you make updates.”

Hanna Azzi, General Manager of Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai, also sees that maintaining the brand throughout the entire resort is undoubtedly important. However, in an ever-evolving hotel industry, she recognises how it is crucial to stay relevant in a saturated market: “This means that our interior design should continuously evolve, while staying true to our ethics and brand identity.

“By regularly assessing guest feedback, and keeping up with market trends, we can identify areas for improvement, and implement necessary updates to keep our design fresh, contemporary, and in line with our progressive brand.”

The eco-minded spirit of Aristi Mountain Resort is an integral and defining aspect of its ethos, with every effort made to minimise its environmental footprint, while supporting the local natural and cultural heritage. For this reason, creating interior choices that harmoniously reflect Aristi Mountain Resort’s sustainable ethos was a must. Vassilis explained how this involved a comprehensive approach, offering guests an immersive and environmentally conscious experience during their stay.

“Indeed, colour schemes and lighting go beyond aesthetics, communicating the hotel’s identity to guests.

“Earthy tones like greens and browns, were used to signify a connection to nature and sustainability, while muted shades promote relaxation. The chosen colours reflect the local environment and landscape, further integrating the hotel with its surroundings, mimicking the outdoor scenery.

“Lighting intensity, creating ambience, was a crucial interior element. Soft, warm lighting sets a cosy atmosphere, blurring the lines between artificial and

“Collaborate with interior designers who can incorporate new elements while preserving the hotel’s unique character and heritage.”

Pg 50 (both) – Tribe Hotel

natural light. Opting for energy-efficient lighting solutions, such as LED bulbs, reinforces the resort’s commitment to sustainability,” said Vassilis.

Ensuring your hotel’s overall aesthetics works in line with your core values can contribute to a unique marketing strategy, but incorporating the element of sustainability within your marketing technique must be paid attention to in order to be effective.

When it comes to eco-consciousness and sustainability, a marketing strategy must be intricately woven to resonate with, and uphold, the core values and ethos of a hotel or resort. Vassilis said: “Building a robust marketing strategy, that authentically conveys its core values, and fostering a strong emotional connection with audiences, is the key to success. Maintaining a consistent visual theme across all marketing materials, telling a compelling story aligned with the core values, and being authentic are the most crucial factors for building trust with guests.”

In order to ensure its interior matches its ethos, the team at Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai strive to embody their core message of “Celebration of Life” throughout every aspect of the property. Hanna Azzi, explained how this includes paying careful attention to the interior design to ensure it aligns with our ethos and creates a memorable guest experience.

“We focus on incorporating elements that reflect our brand values, such as luxury, relaxation and sophistication. This is achieved using materials, textures and design elements that evoke a sense of elegance and tranquillity. Our signature combination of white finishes with light ethnic and untreated wood, along with rough seamless flooring, inspired by the beach, sea and skies, creates a spacious and airy atmosphere filled with natural light.

“The aesthetics of our rooms directly interpret the Nikki Beach brand, with a clear emphasis on beach, vacation and entertainment themes. Our furnishings are simple, light and comfortable, complemented by subtle lighting features to enhance the overall ambiance.”

Marine & Lawn Hotels and Resorts is built of

extraordinary and unconventional properties – intertwined in the hospitality experience and design. Krissy Melendez, Head of Design at AJ Capital Partners for Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts, explained that, when it comes to interiors, hers and the team’s goal is place making: “We want our hotels to resemble their surroundings. No detail is too small as we aim to bring the outdoors inside.

“Additionally, it’s important to us for the interiors to reflect the hospitable service the guests will experience from the moment they step through our front doors. For this reason, furnishings are plush and comfortable, to promote the engaging atmosphere built for memory making.”

Noting the role furniture and décor plays in communicating a hotel’s values to its visitors, the primary mission of the team at Marine & Lawn Hotels and Resorts is to gather the research on traditions, legends and folklore, so that they can tell those stories by weaving them into the design.

Krissy added: “This is at the very core of who we are as developers. Every detail is thoughtfully considered and is a direct reference to something special to that location. Whether it be through custom lamps in the shape of a familiar trophy, or nightstands meant to resemble tee boxes from iconic holes on the local course, the approach of customising each piece evokes an experience unlike any other.”

A clear ethos, reflected in the interior design, can also influence your employees’ engagement and satisfaction. When employees understand, and feel connected to, the values of your hotel, they are more likely to deliver exceptional customer service and contribute positively to the overall guest experience.

A hotel’s interior design is a powerful tool for conveying its ethos and values. When done effectively, it creates a harmonious and authentic environment that enhances guest experiences, fosters loyalty and can set you apart in a competitive industry.

Pg 52 left – Tribe Hotel

Pg 52 right – Marriott Bonvoy – St. Regis Bar

EMBRACING THE FUTURE

How technology is revolutionising hotel design as told by Managing Director at LSM Design, Holly Hallam.

In an age where technological advancements are redefining every facet of our lives, the world of hospitality stands as a canvas where innovation and design converge to craft unparalleled experiences. The unity between design, customer service and technology is vital in reshaping the guest experience and the operational strategy of hotels. It’s crucial to understand the wider brand communication strategy and how technology plays a part in this with the varying guest types, the desired customer journey (both online and offline), overall experience and the commercial objectives. Technology should be viewed through the lens as a supportive tool for deeper guest engagement/ personalisation or to create efficiencies for the hotel’s team.

Contactless technology is one of the leading digital offerings that have been aggressively adopted by most major players, as guests seek convenience. Digital key cards, mobile check-ins, voice-activated controls for in-room amenities, have gained enormous popularity, reducing human contact and favoring efficiency.

The ‘Internet of Things (IoT)’ has brought a new dimension to the hotel bedroom; smart rooms equipped with IoT technology allows guests to control lighting, temperature, and entertainment systems using their smartphones or voice commands, offering a tailored experience to suit the individual’s needs for a perfect night’s stay.

While the IoT takes centre stage, other technological advancements are also driving this exciting evolution.

The integration of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) is reimagining guest engagement. With AR, travellers can use their smartphones to explore interactive elements within the hotel, like historical information about the property, décor, art pieces or location, adding an educational layer to their stay that connects guests with their surroundings. VR, on the other hand, allows prospective guests to take virtual tours of rooms and amenities, offering a glimpse of the venue before arrival.

Moreover, the integration of sustainable technology is becoming increasingly relevant. Hotels are incorporating smart energy management systems that adjust lighting and climate based on occupancy, significantly reducing energy waste. Additionally, the use of sustainable materials, made possible through technological advances, aligns design aesthetics with environmental consciousness.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is also making its mark by tailoring guest experiences. Chatbots powered by AI

can provide real-time assistance to guests, offering recommendations for dining and entertainment, or even suggesting room settings based on guest preferences. The integration of smart mirrors presents a creative approach to merging technology and design. These innovative creations can display real-time information such as weather forecasts, news updates, and even allow guests to request services. Beyond functionality, they contribute to the aesthetics of the space.

As we embrace the potential of technology-integrated design, it’s imperative for businesses to still preserve the human touch. Amidst the algorithms and automation, the heart of hospitality remains the personal connection that transcends screens and sensors. Design isn’t just about visual appeal; it’s about evoking emotions, telling stories, and crafting experiences that resonate with today’s discerning travellers.

LEVELLING UP

In line with the industry’s demand for eco-conscious practices, technological solutions provider, Zennio, share how you can use technology to enhance your hotel’s sustainability initiatives.

The last few years have been one of the hardest periods, if not the hardest, for the hospitality industry across the globe. Faced with lockdowns, staffing issues, war on the European Continent and unprecedented energy costs, all putting pressure on the sector.

When looking at reducing operating costs in a hotel, optimisation comes to mind; optimise labour, optimise training, optimise energy and optimise maintenance. But many times, we fail to address the way to achieve this “optimisation”.

As with everything in life, information is the starting point to approach the problems we aim to solve, so gathering information about what is going on in your hotel becomes essential to optimise the way your hotel works. Once the information is collected, you have to control those variables to be able to change them, and this is where

technology can really make a difference.

Starting with the rooms, utilise sharing information between the hotel PMS. For example, look at whether the room is booked for that day or if the guest has already checked-in, and the HVAC control system, for example the room occupancy. By knowing this information and using technology to only have the AC on when the room is occupied and the guest is checked-in, you’ll be able to keep energy waste to a minimum. This can be applied to all of the room controls, including the lighting, sockets and TV but also to common areas throughout the hotel. Energy accounts to an average of three to six percent of a hotels running costs, therefore, eliminating energy waste can really make a difference.

As for the hotel staff, housekeeping is often overlooked, with teams left to wander through the hotel, searching for rooms to clean. By monitoring well-known signals, such as

‘Make Up Room’ and ‘Do Not Disturb’ through a centralised system, you can help to increase the overall efficiency of your team by assigning tasks to parts of the hotel that require immediate attention.

Combining this information with room occupancy and access controls, you offer the opportunity to enhance guest privacy and provide deeper knowledge of how your hotel works, for example giving information on how much time it takes to clean each room.

Cost centre control systems also help drastically in reducing maintenance, as these solutions allow the use of predictive and preventive policies. By sorting issues before they become fatal or before they even appear, you are decreasing the amount spent replacing broken units, and also minimising the risk of requested refunds from guests if systems aren’t working, or units such as the AC are broken.

A robust and long-lasting control system, combined with a Building Management System (BMS) that integrates a

hotel’s PMS, is vital to get to know how a building operates to optimise all those little things that end up adding up and costing several thousand every year.

These are just a few of the solutions that Zennio develops and delivers in over 100 countries. Helping hotels all around the world to become more efficient and sustainable; supporting local and remote projects and making sure that everything works, every day.

Zennio’s history

Zennio was founded in 2004 with a vision to make the world “smarter” by providing innovative solutions to the control automation industry, what is often referred to as smart buildings. Along their journey in the hospitality industry, it became increasingly evident that many hotels were missing out on the benefits of those solutions, so Zennio committed itself to provide them.

www.zennio.com

A SOFT SOLUTION

The simple answer is yes. In this exclusive editorial with the experts at LUQEL, we discover the opportunity to elevate your food offering with carefully selected, high-quality water.

Is water impacting the taste of your food?

We know from both research, and interviews with industry professionals that the quality of our water directly affects not only the flavour of the food we cook, but also the texture and the success of certain processes like boiling, proving, and steaming. Some Italian restaurants import mineral water directly from Italy, as the water in London impacts both the taste and rise of their pizzas.

So, how does water impact taste and texture?

Mains water contains a variety of mineral salts, dependent on where you live in the UK. These mineral salts will make your water hard or soft. Hard water contains high levels of dissolved mineral salts, such as calcium, magnesium and potassium. Soft water has fewer dissolved minerals, so impacts the taste less.

When cooking vegetables in hard water, the minerals can leave a metallic aftertaste. According to a study in the Journal of Food Science and Technology, hard water impacts the taste of carrots, green beans and broccoli, giving these sweet vegetables a tougher texture and harsher taste. Even spinach and other leafy greens were shown to be more bitter, and darker when cooked in hard water. The same tough texture was also noted when cooking pasta, rice and grains.

Hard water can also reduce the rise in your bread-

making. The calcium and magnesium can interfere with the action of the yeast in the dough, which leads to a weaker rise. It may even reduce the volume of bread by up to 50%, compared to bread made with soft water. It may also affect cakes and pastries by interfering with the leavening agents. The solution is simple, filter the water to remove the hardness, but you could also look at the LUQEL water dispenser that not only removes all the salts and microimpurities, but can produce waters that are specifically used for cooking pasta, bread making, and for pairing with food and wine.

LUQEL specific waters that can enhance food and beverage recipes.

For vegetables cook in MINIMALIST Water, which is an ultrasoft water, with a tiny trace of Magnesium. This will keep them sweet. Once cooked, pair the final dish with VEGGIE Water which, has a stronger mineralisation which enhances their taste.

Pasta should be cooked in PASTA BASTA which is a strongly salted water. To serve, use sparkling BON APPETIT, which has higher levels of magnesium and sulphate, which sweetens the water.

For bread making, I would suggest our softest water, MINIMALIST which will ensure you get the best rise.

www.luqel-water.com

sales.uk@luqel-water.com

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE:

MERCHANT SERVICES

Cash Solutions

FOR THE MODERN HOTELIER

CASH, CARD AND ONLINE PAYMENT SOLUTIONS

MOBILE PAYMENT

CASH FLOW SOLUTIONS & SECURE SAFES

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CASH PROCESSING

CASH DELIVERY

SECURE TRANSPORTATION

INDEPENDENT HOTEL SHOW

CELEBRATING BOUTIQUE HOTELS

The Independent Hotel Show, in partnership with James Hallam, welcomes hoteliers back to Olympia London on 16-17 October for two days of networking, learning and product sourcing.

Each year the show brings together a carefully curated selection of suppliers to the independent hotel sector, providing the ultimate opportunity for hoteliers to refine their business and elevate their customer experience. Design is at the heart of the Independent Hotel Show, which aims to go above and beyond in emulating the high level of service and design provided by hotels that visit the event.

This year the show has partnered with a record number of design agencies and suppliers to elevate the visitor experience, including Cocoon & Bauer, Design Command, New Heritage Design, Studio Clementine, Moritz Waldemeyer, Rosendale Design, Wellbrook Hospitality and sofa.com to create a truly immersive and unique trade show experience.

The event will also feature an exciting partnership with LEVEN Hotels to showcase the LEVENverse, a ‘visually fantastical’ virtual hotel in the metaverse, where people from around the world can network.

Timothy Griffin, Co-Founder of LEVEN Hotels, commented: “We’re delighted to be partnering with the

Independent Hotel Show this year and showcasing the possibilities of the metaverse for the hotel sector.”

The event will also be partnering with sustainability consultant Sarah Duncan to launch the ESG Hub, where hoteliers can meet with experts from organisations including mission: net zero, PlanetMark and Green Key for bespoke, practical advice and guidance on all aspects of corporate sustainability.

Plus, returning for a second year, the Business Solutions Bar presented by HOSPA & HMA will have consultants across a number of specialisms on hand to answer questions and provide advice to hoteliers at this year’s event.

Loved by independent and boutique hoteliers

The Independent Hotel Show attracts the who’s who of the UK independent hotel community, with everyone from owners and managing directors to rising hospitality stars, descending on the show to network and make lasting industry connections.

In addition to working closely with organisations including HOSPA, AA Media Group, the Institute of

Hospitality, VisitEngland, The Master Innholders, PoB Hotels, Preferred Hotels and many more, the show is also delighted to have the support of leading hoteliers across the UK and Ireland.

Sue Williams, General Manager at Whatley Manor, commented: “In these rapidly changing times, attending the Independent Hotel Show is a great opportunity to find out about the industry’s innovations all under one roof. It is a well laid out event with a great variety of suppliers, all reflecting what’s new in the hospitality landscape. Not to mention the great number of quality speakers that you can listen to discussing the key topics concerning us all today.”

Josh Chadwick, General Manager at The Tawny Hotel added: “The Independent Hotel Show is the must visit exhibition each year. From the informative panels where the latest information can be learnt, to building relationships with new and current suppliers. The quality of exhibitors and choice is always brilliant, there is a supplier for every area in a hotel!”

Stephen Fearnley, General Manager at Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa, concluded: “The Independent Hotel Show is an incredibly valuable opportunity to hear and see the latest

trends in the hotel sector, network with industry peers and meet with a wide range of new and existing suppliers. It’s a must-attend event for me and I’d recommend the show to any hoteliers looking to grow their business and make lasting industry connections.”

The Innovation Stage, in partnership with eviivo and designed by New Heritage Design

The Innovation Stage at this year’s show is a must-attend for hoteliers looking to hear about the latest innovations in design, guest experience, technology and much more.

Day One of the show will kick off with sessions from VisitEngland’s Head

of Business Support Transformation

Janet Uttley and UKHospitality CEO Kate Nicholls OBE, who will be providing updates on the latest legislation, support and initiatives relevant to the independent hotel sector.

Plus, the stage will feature a session on eliminating the ‘first night effect’ and ensuring guests return time and time again. Panellist Stuart Godwin, Managing Director of Lamington Group, commented: “Hotels have a couple of must deliver points. A good night’s sleep is one. Forget the

rest of the customer journey if guests don’t have a good night’s sleep, we will be out of business!”

The stage will also see a session on ‘sensory-centric creation’, examining how appealing to all the senses can create the ultimate customer experience.

Panellist Ryan Thompson, General Manager of FortySeven, commented: “In a hotel setting, the guest journey covers a huge array of touchpoints and many standalone hospitality experiences in one, at times we need guests to relax while at others we need guests to be excited to purchase more, both needing the senses to subconsciously work in different ways to help the commercials of the hotel and overall guest satisfaction and experience.

“Designing and opening Forty-Seven this year we have worked tirelessly to carefully consider how all of the senses influence our commercial strategy.”

The Independent Hotel Show has partnered with New Heritage Design to bring the look of the Innovation Stage to life, with something truly unique planned to delight and intrigue visitors to the event.

As hoteliers descend on the Independent Hotel Show from around the country, the design will reflect this diversity of locale by moving throughout the day across themes of countryside, coastal and city.

The day will conclude with the Independent Hotel Show Awards presentation set against a cosmopolitan night time cityscape, utilising a sustainable cork wallpaper and a city scene illustration by Drew Millward of The Monkey Puzzle Tree.

New Heritage Design champions’ sustainability through the revitalisation and reuse of classic vintage pieces, demonstrating that vintage can still mean luxurious.

Creative Director, Hannah Lohan, commented: “At New Heritage Design we work on many different projects, from boutique hotels, to pubs, restaurants and spas. We love to weave vintage furniture into our design schemes as a

sustainable solution to create unique interiors, which not only look beautiful but add character and an interesting narrative to a property.

“Our design ethos will be reflected in the spaces we have been invited to design at this year’s Independent Hotel Show.”

The Hotel Business Stage, in partnership with HotelPartner and designed by Design Command

The Hotel Business Stage at this year’s event will be a hub of practical advice and actionable insights for visitors to the show. Building authentic brands, delivering world class service, mastering hospitality recruitment, refinancing, outsourcing F&B and the potential applications of AI for hotels, these are just some of the topics up for discussion on this busy stage.

Design Command has returned to the Independent Hotel Show for a second year as a design partner, this year transforming the Hotel Business Stage into a striking space inspired by formalism, a stylised form of filmmaking.

Using a colour palette of greens, pinks and oranges, Design Command will be playing with warm and cool colours and using light to create a sense of depth, perspective and contrast. This resulting design will be visually stunning, and the use of colour will create a vibrant and eye-catching space, stimulating insightful discussion and debate.

Founder, Clare McDonald, commented: “Design Command is thrilled to partner with the Independent Hotel Show to design the Hotel Business Stage for 2023. This is a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase our skills and expertise in creating spaces for the hospitality industry.

“We believe that this stage will be a vibrant and inspiring space for speakers and attendees to gather and exchange ideas.”

Quality suppliers to the independent hotel sector

This year’s edition of the show is packed with unique suppliers showcasing their latest exciting products and innovative services. Visitors can meet with the likes of luxury linen and bedding supplier AURA DEMI, who source only the finest fibres and collaborate with professionals to craft luxurious, comfortable, and bespoke bed linens and bedding products.

Also at the show are SWYFT, the furniture brand that believes in great design that’s thoughtful, comfortable and that will last a lifetime. For hotels looking to revitalise their spa offering, SPA CREATORS, comprises a leading team of designers and procurement specialists who have created award-winning spas in the luxury and boutique hotel sector in the UK and around the world. The business also offers a modular spa concept – SPAshell TM – which offers a brilliant solution for hotels wanting to add a spa and wellness business.

For visitors interested in sourcing amenities, Branche d’Olive offer home fragrances, curated lifestyle accessories and naturally derived bath & body products, with a commitment to less waste and products packaged in 97% recycled and 100% recyclable plastic.

GAIA Skincare will also be on hand with their skincare range made from natural ingredients, made with certified organic plant extracts, many of which are fair trade and sourced from small farms and producers. Their formulations have been created using traditional artisan methods, blending the finest ingredients, plant actives, and essential oils, to produce a range of products with intention and integrity.

Celebrating excellence in the independent hotel sector

The Independent Hotel Show Awards, in partnership with

Preferred Hotels & Resorts, now in their 11th year, celebrate pioneering hospitality businesses and hotel professionals in the UK & Ireland.

The Independent Hotel of the Year Award recognises a truly special establishment embodying an independent spirit and demonstrating excellence and innovation in creating exceptional guest experiences. These are hotels that are committed to the development of their team and the wider success and betterment of the independent hotel sector.

The winner of Independent Hotel of the Year, along with the winner of GM of the Future, in partnership with The Master Innholders, will be unveiled on the evening of 16 October at the Independent Hotel Show in an exclusive event, open to senior hoteliers and hospitality professionals.

The Independent Hotel Show returns to Olympia London on 16-7 October for the boutique and independent hotel community.

To find out more about everything happening at this year’s edition, and to register for your complimentary trade ticket, visit independenthotelshow.co.uk

Shortlist for The Independent Hotel of the Year Award is:

• The Atlantic Hotel, Jersey

• Aviator Hotel, Hampshire

• The Cottage In The Wood, Malvern

• The Fish Hotel, Broadway, Cotswolds

• The Grand, York

• Grove of Narberth, Pembrokeshire

• The Headland, Newquay

• Ness Walk, Inverness

WHAT A LINE UP!

As we gear up once again for the only industry event dedicated entirely to the needs of luxury and boutique hoteliers, we are excited to share profiles of some of the brands at The Independent Hotel Show 2023.

T

he goal of Girbau is to create maximum value for its customers, supporting them in their professional growth. The Girbau community supplies simple, dependable solutions that offer its clients profitability, innovation and sustainability.

Stand 1749

T: 01462 427780 E: sales.uk@girbau.com

Girbau Lovibond EXHIBITOR PROFILES

With more than 60 years of experience as a manufacturer of washing and drying equipment, Girbau provides the most comprehensive offering of commercial, industrial, and vended laundry solutions in the world to meet productivity and efficiency needs.S

pecialising in providing innovative water analysis solutions, we enable quick and accurate testing for both pool and spa water. Our cutting-edge instruments deliver precise measurements, safeguarding the health and enjoyment of swimmers. Lovibond continues to be a go-to partner for leisure facilities worldwide. Committed to creating safe and enjoyable swimming experiences, we blend tradition and technology to set the gold standard in water testing within the leisure industry.

Stand 1321W: support@lovibond.uk T: 01980 664800

L

ove Cocoa creates exceptional chocolate in an exceptional way. They drive positive change, craft ethically and only use the world’s finest cacao. Founder James Cadbury, the great-great-great grandson of John Cadbury, blends his heritage and expertise of great-tasting, Great British chocolate with modern standards of sustainability and ethics. As a B Corp certified company, Love Cocoa is committed to protecting nature, by planting trees and avoiding plastic, farming fairly and crafting their chocolate with pride and care.

Stand 931E: aimie@lovecocoa.com T: 07923135844

It is our mission, through the TET-Synergy, to maximise rooms-revenue and reduce costs of hotels, hotel groups and similar accommodation providers. Thus, ensuring the best possible solution for revenue management and distribution.

It is our vision, to ensure a sustainable growth for accommodation providers by optimising their profitability and partnering with them into a successful and secure future.

Clockwork Marketing

Clockwork Marketing specialises in hospitality and hotel marketing. Our services are specific to the hospitality industry, our strategies have been maximising results and fuelling wanderlust since 1992. As a specialist hospitality and hotel marketing agency, we take the stress and weight of marketing from your shoulders and enable confidence in the direction you’re headed. Our mission is to give you presence, through original creativity, positioning your hospitality business as part of a travel fantasy. No matter the size of your business or the scope of your goals, we know what it is: that x-factor which captures the imagination of new guests and boost bookings.

Stand 1238

W: www.clock-work.co.uk/ E: hello@clock-work.co.uk

T: 01803 872999

Maestro PMS

Maestro is the preferred cloud hosted or on-premise All-In-One Web PMS solution for independent hotels, luxury resorts, conference centers, vacation rentals, and multi-property groups. Maestro’s PCI certified and EMV ready enterprise system offers 20+ integrated modules on a single database including touchless and mobile apps to increase engagement, drive direct bookings, centralize operations; all while enabling a unified & seamless guest journey from booking to checkout and everything in between. For over 45 years Maestro’s Diamond Plus Service has provided unparalleled 24/7 support and education services to keep hospitality groups thriving.

Stand 1530

T: 905-940-1923 ext.291 E: mlorenzini@maestropms.com

Simba Sleep

Simba’s mission is to bring great sleep to the globe, using innovative, technological expertise to design problem-solving but sustainable sleep products. We’re proud to have won 60+ industry awards and over 260,000 5-star reviews, making Simba the world’s most 5-star rated mattress brand. We’re equally proud to be the first UK sleep brand awarded B Corp certification; our key achievements include 100% recyclable, reducedfoam mattresses, a not-for-profit mattress removal/ recycling service, and a mattress refurbishment programme. Our new range of contract mattresses aims to revolutionise this traditional sector, underpinned by our advances in sustainable technology and our target of NetZero by 2030.

Stand 1230

E: wholesale@simbasleep.com

Hospitality beds from the world’s most trusted sleep brands

At Silentnight Group,

UK’s most trusted

We’re proud that Silentnight is the UK’s most trusted bed brand as voted for by the British public and a Superbrand for the 15th year running. This is a huge achievement and we’ll continue investing, innovating and producing quality products to make sure we continue leading the way.

First class customer service

Our knowledge and expertise can guide clients every step of the way, whether that’s helping with a full consultation process or simply dropping off your beds! Just let us know and we’ll be here to help.

For more information visit Silentnight.co.uk/hospitality

Committed to sustainability

We’re dedicated to having a positive impact on the planet and know how important this is to our hospitality customers and their guests. We will always ensure our products and service are created and delivered in a responsible and ethical way.

Backed by science

We understand the science of sleep and the importance of getting a good night’s rest. Our in-house sleep scientists are continually researching and innovating to make sure your guests get the sleep they need to start the day right.

Handmade in the UK

As a group we product over 800,000 mattresses per year and have 100 years of heritage behind us. We’re extremely proud that all our products are made in the heart of the UK.

we are on a mission to help everyone get a great night’s sleep in the world of hospitality.

VANITY GROUP EXHIBITOR PROFILES

ome to the world’s most progressive brands, VANITY GROUP is a designer playground of hotel guest amenities. The luxury guest cosmetics provider’s client roster includes Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts, The Waldorf Hilton, The BoTree, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Hyatt Hotels, Tribe Hotels, Sofitel Hotels & Resorts and many more. Meanwhile the Australian founded business boasts a brand portfolio that includes KARL LAGERFELD, Jo Loves by Jo Malone CBE, TEMPLESPA, Urban Apothecary, Percy & Reed London, The Organic Pharmacy, Antipodes, among others. Ready to join the beauty parade? Visit: vanitygroup.com

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Stand 1118E: Info@vanitygroup.com T: 07771 883458

E

Stand 2120E: rho@hotelpartner-ym.com

B

ook4Time is the leading cloud-based spa, wellness, and leisure activity management software for the world’s top hotels and resorts, used by more Forbes 5-Star resorts than any other vendor. Book4Time manages the end-to-end guest experience for international hotels, resorts, casinos, golf, and private member clubs operating in over 100 countries worldwide and is the preferred solution for some of the world’s largest and most prestigious brands. We aim to give our clients the support they need to elevate the guest experience. The only way we can provide exceptional service and great products to our clients.

Stand 2275 E:

HotelPartner

S

SHR Group EXHIBITOR

HR Group is the leading provider of innovative and intelligent technology solutions for the hospitality industry. Allora.ai, the world’s leading intelligent and integrated hospitality platform, is the flagship product of SHR Group. Allora.ai helps hotels stay always ahead as it leverages the power of AI, with a dynamic suite of hotel management software tools. Alongside allora.ai, we also have SHR Group Hotel Services which focuses on empowering the hospitality industry with award-winning website design and marketing services, and unmatched AI-powered hotel acquisition management and retention solutions.

Stand 2251 and 2120E: info@shrgroup.com T: +353 (0)61 335 680

PROFILES

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Stand 1610W: www.silentnight.co.uk/hospitality

E: contracts@silentnight.co.uk T: 01282811795

Pelican Group Purchasing

t Pelican, we understand the value of your time and resources. As your dedicated Procurement partner, we will collaborate with you to enhance your hotel’s profitability, streamline your operations, and achieve your sustainability goals. With our team of experts, specialised services and cutting-edge eProcurement system, you can concentrate on what truly matters – enhancing your guest experiences and growing your business. Our services are flexible, leaving you in complete control of any decision-making. Simply put, we work for you, helping you achieve your objectives. To explore how we can support you in achieving your hotel goals, contact our team today.

A

Stand 1138E: hello@pelicanprocurement.co.uk T: 01252 705 214

Zennio EXHIBITOR PROFILES

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ennio is a private company founded in 2005 by three partners. We have over 17 years committed to design and manufacturing of KNX smart building products, and solutions for the hospitality industry.

Stand 1838

W: www.zennio.com

E: info@zennio.co.uk

A

Zennio is a leading manufacturer of KNX Guest Room Management Systems, comprising cuttingedge automation hardware and software solutions for occupancy management, lighting, HVAC, shading, access control, multimedia, and room service communication. Zennio GRMS systems are installed in over 90,000 rooms worldwide, in hotels of every size and category including the most prestigious hotel brands such Melia, IHG, Hilton and many more.eetingPackage is an omni-channel sales automation software for Meeting and Event bookings. Our objective is to improve the process for both meeting planners and event venues, including hotels, conference centres, and serviced offices. The company integrates with venues’ existing PMS, S&C, and back-office solutions while delivering products to all customer-facing channels. Products include a Venue Sales Management platform, an online Booking Engine, Group Booking functionality, and a Meetings & Events specific Channel Manager. The software features twelve different language versions and is used by thousands of hotel customers.

M

Stand 2326W. www.meetingpackage.com

E . matti.rautanen@meetingpackage.com

ADA Cosmetics

DA Cosmetics has been developing and producing high-end cosmetics and dispensing systems for hotels, cruise ships, and airlines for over four decades. The company serves more than 30,000 customers worldwide with its own manufacturing facilities in Europe and APAC. ADA Cosmetics offers bespoke cosmetics solutions and more than twenty brands, from luxury, boutique-style, and international designer names, to certified natural cosmetics lines. In addition, ADA Cosmetics is an innovator and market leader in hygienic dispenser systems. The entire value chain of the company is geared towards eco-friendly, sustainable business practices. ADA Cosmetics is the only Cradle to Cradle Silver certified amenities manufacturer globally.

Stand 1710E: sales.uk@ada-cosmetics.com

Optimise efficiency with administrative automation

Boost direct bookings with no added booking fees

Connect to 100+ OTA Channels

Provide trustworthy payment solutions

Increase revenue with automated upselling

Siemlus EXHIBITOR PROFILES

iemlus, is a unique Service Integration & Management (SIAM) enterprise, founded by a collective of engineering and technology experts. Their mission: to guide clients in envisioning, designing, and executing futureready technology delivery for today’s hospitality market. As a frontrunner in hospitality technology consultation, Siemlus has forged impactful partnerships with global leaders like Onity and Hoteza, earning industry recognition as the preferred supplier for prestigious hotel brands including IHG and luxury independents like Castlebridge Group. With a reputation for excellence, Siemlus is reshaping the landscape of hospitality technology, setting the benchmark for innovation and integration. Making the impossible feel Siemlus.

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Stand 2271E: hello@siemlus.com T: +44(0)330 016 1920

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eet RoomRaccoon, the leading hotel management system for independent hotels. RoomRaccoon’s all-in-one platform empowers hoteliers with all the tools they need to maximise revenue, streamline operations and delight guests at the click of a button. With RoomRaccoon, hotels can say goodbye to complex integrations and access a property management system, channel manager, booking engine and payment platform – all in one place! RoomRaccoon knows that each property is one-of-a-kind, and with an extensive application marketplace, hotels can easily integrate with their favourite tools to create a truly tailored hotel management system that works for them.

Stand 1318W: roomraccoon.co.uk E: uk@roomraccoon.com

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otelRunner is a data-driven SaaS-enabled unified sales, operations, and distribution management platform and B2B network for accommodations, travel agencies, and payment providers. HotelRunner has thousands of accommodation and travel agency partners globally. HotelRunner is a Booking.com Premier Connectivity Partner and Best Overall Performing Partner, Expedia Elite Connectivity Partner, Airbnb Software Partner, Agoda Innovative Supplier, Oracle, Hotelbeds, trivago and Google Hotel Ads strategic partner. Today, HotelRunner works with 60,000+ accommodation partners of all types and 150+ travel agencies and hospitality industry partners from 193 countries, revolutionising travel technologies.

Stand 1631E: kerem@hotelrunner.com

HotelRunner

BC Softwear EXHIBITOR PROFILES

s a leading supplier of towels, bathrobes, slippers and spa linen, BC SoftWear is well placed to help hotels really make their mark in guests’ memories. In the last year, BC SoftWear has seen a marked increase in demand for customised and bespoke robes, towels and slippers – a sign of true luxury as well as a powerful driver of secondary spend. In response, BC SoftWear has created intricately stitched motifs and piping, plus custom-embroidered labels and entirely new designs, as well as truly sustainable bedroom slippers and flip flops – responding to hoteliers’ commitment to going a step above.

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Stand 1340W: www.bcsoftwear.co.uk/ www.bcsoftwear-corporate.co.uk

T: +44 (0)845 210 4000 E: enquiries@bcsoftwear.co.uk

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or over two decades, Buzz has designed memorable products that travellers love. Our iconic brand collaborations for worldleading hotels deliver products that enhance the journey for travellers. Inspired by design and innovation, our collaborations focus on giving back positively to the planet and communities. Explore our collection of iconic brands created by visionary founders and discover the stories that set them apart.

Stand 1205

W: www.buzzproducts.com

T: +61 403 204 684

E: kate.wilson@buzzproducts.com

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ews is the leading platform for the new era of hospitality. Powering over 3,500 properties across more than 80 countries, Mews Hospitality Cloud is designed to streamline operations for modern hoteliers, transform the guest experience and create more profitable businesses. Customers include Accor, Generator-Freehand, Nordic Choice Hotels, The Social Hub, Life House and Airelles. Mews has been named the World’s Best Independent Hotel PMS Provider by World Travel Tech Awards (2022) and Best Place to Work in Hotel Tech (2021, 2022) by Hotel Tech Report. The company has offices in Europe, the United States and Australia.

Stand 1542W: www.mews.com

Buzz Products 78 www.thehotelmagazine.co.uk

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DRIVING CHANGE

Hotels

have a responsibility to adopt sustainable initiatives, as consumers are making far more conscious purchasing decisions based on the matter. In this exclusive editorial with Andrew Parsons MIH, Head of Sales at Pelican Group Purchasing, we talk about making greener procurement choices in your hotel operations.

Hoteliers are now considering multiple solutions for their procurement, weighing up a combination of factors, including delivery options, prices, products, and their environmental impact. It’s about finding what fits their business best in the long run.

Andrew Parsons guides us, sharing the latest trends adopted by hotel and hospitality operators.

Supply Chain Consolidation

We now see many hoteliers leading the way in sustainable procurement by consolidating their supply chain and making direct changes to their purchasing where they can. This reduces delivery drops, generating fewer road miles and reducing their carbon footprint.

We have recently helped one of our clients that runs several leisure venues. They previously used multiple suppliers, but we worked with them to identify a supplier that could provide a diverse range of products – and

even expand their line items to accommodate them. By consolidating, they now receive just one efficient truck delivery reducing their carbon emissions.

Business Differentiation

Similarly, another client that runs an exclusive wedding venue, located in a forest, has made sustainability a central theme. They amalgamated their purchasing basket and opted for local and regional supply solutions. While national suppliers offered cost savings, the venue prioritised local suppliers to minimise their ecological impact, in line with its eco-ethos.

Removal of Single-use Plastic

We are working with a hotel client looking to replace inroom plastic water bottles with a filtered water tap fitted in a communal corridor. Guests can then fill a carafe with filtered water when needed. For the 246-bedroom hotel, they would switch from providing around 8,000 bottles a year over five

years, with time seeing that the installed system saves them around £20,000 if they rented it or £33,000 if purchased outright.

In addition, many hotels are moving away from singleuse plastics by replacing small toiletry bottles with fixed dispensers for refillable options. Though high-end hotels may continue providing bespoke amenities, many embrace eco-friendly alternatives.

From a catering perspective, using biodegradable straws, recyclable tetra packs, and compostable take-out trays is becoming a necessity. With new legislation coming into effect from 1st October 2023, there will be bans on singleuse plastic plates, bowls, containers, cutlery trays and balloon sticks.

Greener Room Service

We are noticing hotels re-evaluate their room servicing practices, offering guests the choice of whether they want their rooms serviced every day or not. This reduces unnecessary water, cleaning chemicals and energy usage, while maintaining guest comfort.

Eco-Friendly Food Service

To further measure eco-impact, some hotels are adding carbon footprint information with their food. This encourages chefs and customers to make more environmental purchasing decisions, helping hotels reach their sustainability goals.

Furthermore, some hotels are also looking more closely at waste management to reduce food waste as well as costs. We are currently working with customers to conduct waste audits, to find solutions and recycle more effectively, leading to accreditations that hotels can proudly promote to their environmentally conscious guests.

Energy-Eficient Solutions

Energy efficiency is a critical aspect of sustainability. Standard practices now include switching to more energyefficient lighting, implementing timer switches, and managing occupancy to reduce energy consumption.

Some hotels even invest in renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, which may have a higher initial cost but provide long-term sustainable benefits and help demonstrate their commitment to sustainability.

What’s Next?

As consumers become more environmentally-conscious, hotels implementing genuine sustainable measures will stand out. Guests now actively seek information on a hotel’s ecofriendly practices before booking. As attitudes continue to evolve and innovations arise, the hospitality industry has a bright future in creating a greener, more sustainable world.

About Pelican Group Purchasing

At Pelican, we understand the value of your time and resources. As your dedicated partner, we will collaborate with you to enhance your hotel’s profitability, streamline your operations, and achieve your sustainability goals.

With our team of experts, specialised group purchasing services, and a cutting-edge eProcurement system, you can concentrate on what truly matters – enhancing your guest experiences and growing your business. Our services are flexible, leaving you in complete control of any decisionmaking. Put simply, we work for you, helping you achieve your objectives.

To reduce your carbon footprint and explore how we can support you in achieving your hotel’s goals, contact our team at hello@pelicanprocurement.co.uk today.

If you’re attending the Independent Hotel Show this year, come and see us at stand 1138!

THE NEW FACE OF HOSPITALITY

In the ever-evolving landscape of hospitality, staying ahead of the competition is essential. That’s where SHR Group and allora.ai step in – to be your strategic partners in navigating the complexities of the industry. Our suite of tools is designed not only to meet the challenges of modern hospitality but to exceed guest expectations while increasing revenue and driving profitability, ensuring you stay Always Ahead.

Empowering Hoteliers Through Innovation

Hospitality is no longer just about providing a place to stay; it’s about crafting memorable experiences. SHR Group and allora.ai empowers hoteliers to elevate these experiences to new heights. From CRS, IBE, RMS, website design, digital marketing and more, our enhanced suite of tools reflects our commitment to innovation in every way.

Every aspect of our enhanced suite of tools has been meticulously designed to cater to the evolving needs of the hospitality industry. From anticipating trends to optimising operations, every feature reflects our dedication to pushing boundaries and setting new industry standards.

Whether it be a first-time visitor or repeat customer, SHR Group and allora.ai serves the most relevant and persuasive messages along the entire path to purchase with

our IBE tool. This level of control enables you to optimise your pricing strategy, maximise occupancy, tailor your offerings to meet the specific needs of your target audience and increase committed bookings by 25%.

By using SHR Group and allora.ai’s CRM system you have the ability to proactively understand your guests and provide a truly personalised service that exceeds their expectations, fosters loyalty, and elevates your reputation in the industry as you offer uniquely tailored solutions.

In essence, SHR Group and allora.ai empowers hoteliers by providing comprehensive distribution solutions to optimise their online presence and reach a wider audience, ultimately driving bookings and revenue growth.

Together, we’re redefining the essence of hospitality by putting the guest experience at the forefront. Through

the integration of SHR Group and allora.ai’s advanced CRS system, our partnership enhances the hotelier’s revenue generation, optimisation, and profitability while also elevating the guest experience through operational efficiency. This blend of technology and personalised service equips hoteliers with the means to transform each guest stay into a distinct and memorable narrative.

Unveiling the Power of allora.ai

At the core of our offering lies allora.ai, a groundbreaking suite of tools, powered by AI. Leveraging the latest advancements in artificial intelligence and data analytics, allora.ai addresses the pressing challenges that hoteliers face daily, revolutionising how hospitality businesses function:

1. Demand Forecasting

Accurate demand forecasting is the cornerstone of effective revenue management. Allora.ai’s CRS tool harnesses predictive analytics to anticipate demand trends, allowing you to optimise room rates, inventory, and staffing levels.

2. Personalised Guest Experiences

In today’s hospitality landscape, personalisation is paramount. Allora.ai’s AI-driven insights with the IBE tool enables you to tailor guest experiences based on their preferences and behaviors, with every guest feeling nurtured and seen, increasing customer retention and acquisition.

3. Dynamic Pricing Strategies

Staying competitive requires flexibility in pricing strategies. With allora.ai’s RMS tool you have access to dynamic pricing capabilities, meaning you can respond swiftly to market fluctuations, special events, and competitor rates, empowering you to stay competitive in the market, with flexibility and scalability.

4. Operational Efficiency

Streamlining operations is key to freeing up resources for what truly matters: guest satisfaction. Allora.ai automates

tasks such as check-ins, reservations, and room assignments with its RPA tool, allowing your staff to focus on delivering exceptional service.

5. Integrated Analytics

Data is the cornerstone of strategic decision-making. Allora. ai offers comprehensive analytics and reporting, providing valuable Insights into your hotel’s performance, ensuring that every decision is data-driven.

Shaping the Future of Hospitality

Within our ecosystem, we offer a comprehensive set of tools designed to cater to every aspect of hotel management, truly serving as a one-stop shop for hoteliers. While each of these tools can be purchased individually to address specific needs, the full spectrum of benefits emerge when they are secured together. By integrating these tools, hoteliers unlock a powerful and cohesive solution that maximises the potential for success in the hospitality industry.

But the transformational journey offered by SHR Group and allora.ai is not just about tools; it’s about reshaping the very essence of hospitality. As we embark on this journey of innovation, our promise to hoteliers is clear: what SHR Group and allora.ai offers isn’t just about staying relevant; it’s about becoming pioneers. It’s about staying true to the essence of hospitality while leveraging the cutting-edge solutions that redefine what’s possible.

To delve deeper into the capabilities of allora.ai’s suite of tools and to witness firsthand how SHR Group can revolutionise your hotel operations, we invite you to schedule a personalised demo with our team. Together, we can unlock unprecedented levels of efficiency, guest satisfaction, and revenue potential.

Contact us today to schedule your personalised demo. The future of hospitality starts here with SHR Group and allora.ai.

THE EVERCHANGING MARKET

In an exclusive interview with Robert Holland FIH, Managing Director UK & Ireland at HotelPartner, we learn about his experience in the hospitality market and his standpoint on the current industry trends using the knowledge of the brand’s partners across Europe.

Please introduce yourself and tell us about your expertise in the hospitality market.

I’ve been the Managing Director for HotelPartner in the English-Speaking markets since 2017, but my career in hospitality started long before that. In 1989, I got my first job at the Hilton International in Strasbourg, my training then took me across Europe with summer stints at Cornell University in upstate New York. Hotels, Contract Catering and Restaurants were some of the hospitality roles that followed. Prior to joining HotelPartner, I was responsible for a small cluster of hotels in central London. During this time, I developed a deep understanding of the unique demands and intricacies of independent hotels. As part of a small team, we needed to identify market trends, create innovative marketing strategies, and optimise our operational efficiency.

What

are the current challenges presented to hoteliers in terms of revenue management and distribution?

Like in many other areas of hospitality, a key challenge is clearly recruitment of qualified talents. At my own hotel, when my Revenue Manager of seven years gave her notice, I struggled to recruit a replacement and when I did, it took her a while to understand our market and position. The world of distribution is constantly changing, with OTA’s offering countless promotions to consider, new routes to market focussing on different audiences and fluctuating commissions. In an independent hotel, the revenue manager often has the responsibility of taking reservations and calls, perhaps carrying out the occasional duty management shift and also the requirement to train their team, as

well as attending hotel management meetings. Revenue management in a busy environment and needs constant monitoring and cannot be dipped in and out of and that’s why I believe that managed automation is essential. But with so many pricing and revenue management systems available, the choice can be overwhelming for hoteliers with many factors to consider, such as how often they update the prices, if the suggested restrictions make sense or if the systems can be managed by channel, to avoid unnecessary commissions. Adding to all that, is learning how to work with and keeping up to date with these systems, all of which is a rather time-consuming task!

With over 500 partners across Europe, creating invaluable knowledge on the market, what changing trends have you noticed?

Notably, we’ve observed a surge in personalised guest experiences driven by advanced technologies, reflecting guests’ desire for tailored stays. The shift towards sustainable practices is also prominent, with guests showing increased preference for eco-friendly accommodations and services. The rise of online platforms and social media has transformed how to approach distribution and marketing strategies, emphasising visual storytelling and user-generated content.

Since the pandemic, we have noticed an increase in last-minute travellers, with the average booking time moving more and more towards the month of the arrival. Therefore, flexible booking options have gained

traction, providing guests with greater control over their reservations. These trends underscore the necessity for hotels to remain adaptable, technologically adept, and environmentally conscious to meet the evolving preferences of today’s travellers.

What shifts do you predict to see in the hospitality industry in the coming years, and how can HotelPartner help hoteliers navigate this?

As the hospitality industry evolves, revenue management is becoming more integrated with other disciplines, including marketing, sales, and distribution. It is becoming essential that revenue managers work more closely with marketing teams to develop pricing strategies that align with the hotel’s overall marketing goals. They may also collaborate with sales teams to develop targeted promotions and discounts. Without a deep comprehension of sales and marketing, the marketing funnel, the scale up and down of advertising, this partnership will never flourish. Many hoteliers that share this view of revenue management are transitioning the role to that of a commercial manager with responsibility for revenue, sales and marketing, recognising that these disciplines must work together to be most effective. Within this framework, specialists can look after individual areas and third parties such as HotelPartner can be left to manage daily pricing and distribution changes.

hotelpartner-ym.com

TRIUMPH WITH TECH

The hospitality industry is in the midst of a digital revolution and staying up-to-speed with the latest technology is key to reach the full potential of your business. Sal Capizzi, Head of Marketing at Book4Time, shares the benefits that cloud-based revenue management can present to your overnight stay venue.

Please introduce our readers to Book4Time.

Book4Time is the leading cloud-based spa and ancillary revenue management software for the world’s top hotels and resorts, used by more Forbes 5-Star resorts than any other vendor. Book4Time manages the end-to-end guest experience for hotels, resorts and clubs in over 100 countries worldwide and is the preferred solution for some of the world’s largest and most prestigious hospitality brands including Marriott, Accor, Hilton, Hyatt and Four Seasons.

How can Book4Time elevate a hotel business?

Book4Time helps elevate a hotel business by letting Spa Directors, Revenue Managers and General Managers focus on what is important: maximising revenue and enhancing the overall guest experience. We do this in a number of ways including out of the box features such as Yield Management, Customisable Online Booking Sites, Commission and Payroll Management, Inventory Management, and so much more. Features like online booking have allowed some of our clients to generate over 1 million dollars alone in online booked revenue.

We go beyond the spa. Many hotels and resorts have a lot of offerings such as classes, activities, cabana reservations and retail boutiques. Book4Time is able to streamline the operations for all of these ancillary areas. The best part is, our built in point of sale lets you collect payment for all of these services, all in one place.

This year, we won the International Spa Association’s Innovate Award for our advanced yield management and dynamic pricing capabilities. This feature has allowed our clients to maximise revenue within their spa and wellness departments and has given sales and marketing teams the ability to create exclusive offerings and campaigns, and never using the term “discount” again to fill treatment rooms again!

What makes Book4Time stand out from other similar systems on the market?

Book4Time goes above and beyond other software vendors on the market when it comes to features and support. Innovation is in our DNA and helps to create the best solutions possible for the hospitality and wellness industries. Our platform integrates with over 60+ technology solutions allowing for seamless operations between departments. PMS integrations allow for custom itineraries to be created, charges to be posted to rooms, and reservation look-ups. We are a feature packed software with a dedicated Customer Success team and 24/7 support. From onboarding and implementation, to go-live, our customers are always in good hands and our Hotel Tech Report customer service certification says it all.

How can our readers start working with you?

Readers can start working with us by visiting our website and requesting a personalised demo, by contacting sales@ book4time.com and mentioning Hotel Magazine UK or by meeting up with us at the Independent Hotel Show London!

The world's most innovative spa software, chosen by more Forbes Travel Guide 4 and 5-Star properties than any other brand.

MEET US AT THE INDEPENDENT HOTEL SHOW LONDON

OCT 16 & 17 - BOOTH 2275

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Working in a 5-Star property quite often means that guests wish to book outside our opening hours. The main thing that we were looking for in a software solution is a fully cloud based system, which therapists and spa team members can access from anywhere.”

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Laura Brown Spa Director, Bamford Spa at the Berkeley Hotel London

TACKLING SUSTAINABILITY

BC SoftWear is working to make slippers more sustainable, without compromising on the high-end quality five-star guests expect. In this exclusive editorial, we join them on their journey of tackling sustainability, one pair of slippers at a time.

British-based, family-run and celebrating 21 years in business this year, BC SoftWear supplies high-end towels, bathrobes and footwear to luxury hotels and spas worldwide.

“Our top hotel clients are increasingly asking us for more sustainable options, especially when it comes to the bedroom slipper,” said BC SoftWear’s founder and CEO, Barbara Cooke. “We have been creating environmentally friendly ways to meet luxury towelling and robe needs, without compromising on quality, for many years. Our SupremeSoft robes, towels and spa linens use up to 70% less energy compared with a traditional towel, 10% less water and require 31% less drying time. But hoteliers are now turning their attention to the problem of making bedroom slippers more ecological.

“Slippers are a luxury hotel bedroom staple; guests expect a quality slipper in their room, but they remain hugely unsustainable. Guests wear them once and leave them behind, resulting in a ‘slipper mountain’ as they’re almost impossible to recycle. “BC SoftWear has offered biodegradable slippers for many years and, while some customers have gone down that road, for many they don’t feel luxurious enough, and as they still need time to biodegrade, it’s not a perfect solution.”

An achievable answer

Last year, BC SoftWear began working alongside Reskinned, specialists in recycling end-of-life textiles and footwear, to repurpose spa flip flops by turning them into the surfaces used for children’s playgrounds. Despite extensive research, Reskinned is unable to apply the same principle to bedroom slippers, as the process of deconstructing the slipper sole and cotton upper is too costly to be viable.

“We’ve worked with Sue Williams, General Manager at Whatley Manor, to create a solution that maintains the level of quality guests expect while supporting the circular economy,” said Barbara. “Whatley Manor has replaced

slippers with a bespoke, intricately designed flip flop in guest bedrooms, with a paper wrap saying: ‘please take me home’. We’re enticing guests to re-use them and if they don’t, they can be recycled. It’s a more sustainable, highend alternative to the bedroom slipper.”

BC SoftWear is now working to introduce other hotel partners to this option, offering a simple and achievable solution to the serious issue that is slipper wastage within hotels. www.bcsoftwear.co.uk

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A NEW ERA OF CHOCOLATE

In this exclusive editorial, we discover Love Cocoa, The Modern Chocolatier, whose flavoursome, expertly crafted and sustainably sourced range offers a luxurious and tasty experience for your guests.

About the Brand

Founded by James Cadbury, the great-great-great grandson of John Cadbury, Love Cocoa creates exceptional chocolate in an exceptional way. The brand drives positive change, craft ethically and only use the world’s finest cacao.

By blending heritage and expertise of great-tasting Great British chocolate with modern standards of sustainability and ethics, Love Cocoa is making chocolate history. Again. The team are committed to creating luxury, sustainable chocolate - made from only the finest, fairest ingredientscarefully crafted in Great Britain.

Love Cocoa was built upon three pillars: People. They source all their cocoa ethically from growers who farm fairly and pay their workers properly. There’s no great chocolate without great people behind it. Planet. They protect nature, using no unnecessary plastic, no palm oil and no cruelty. By pledging 1% of their annual sales to reforestation projects, Love Cocoa is combatting the deforestation and environmental damage caused by unsustainable cocoa farming by planting trees in West Africa. They’ve already planted over 1,600,000 trees in areas that have been badly affected by unsustainable farming practices.

Passion. All Love Cocoa’s chocolate has been crafted with pride and care, using the world’s finest cacao. Their flavours are diligently designed to enhance the natural aromas of the cocoa they use, and they are dedicated to discovering new, exciting and delicious flavour combinations.

Chocolate for Change

The mainstream chocolate industry is far from delicious: it’s rife with unfair farming, corporate takeovers, shrinking rainforests and compromised ingredients. Inspired by the ethos of James’ great-great-great grandfather, Love Cocoa is on a mission to break the pattern by making chocolate that is indulgent, ingenious and genuine. This is a new era

of chocolate from one of the oldest names in the game. It’s everything you love about luxury chocolate, just better. As a B Corp certified company, Love Cocoa is dedicated to balancing profit and purpose, using business as a force for good and giving back to the earth from which we take our resources.

This is luxury chocolate made with love, by The Modern Chocolatier. lovecocoa.com

ALL-IN-ONE TECH

The appeal of all-in-one platforms in technology is hard to deny – they save time, money and boost efficiency. These versatile platforms offer both individuals and businesses the chance to make substantial strides in a short timeframe with minimal effort. But what exactly do these all-inone platforms bring to the hospitality industry and why are they in such high demand among various hospitality businesses worldwide?

Running a hospitality business means creating a living space, managing its day-to-day operations, and then distributing this space’s availability by listing, promoting, and advertising. Just as in our lives, the hospitality industry embraces the newest technological advances to adapt and grow in the market. Travel technologies develop while the providers specialise to be the best in their fields. This specialisation causes an important challenge for businesses since it creates too many options for too few fields. In other words, hospitality technologies become fragmented with the advance of technology.

The lack of centralisation corrodes the efficiency that is promised with technology. As the monumental transformation driven by technologies like AI and automation undergoes different products and solutions, the need for an all-in-one platform draws the logical path to be successful. All-in-one, fully integrated platforms, and automation tools enable hoteliers to streamline operations, optimise staff allocation, boost revenue, and enhance guest experiences.

HotelRunner’s centralised platform bridges the gap

between different technologies and tools, offering integration and coherence for seamless hospitality management. Functioning as a Swiss Army knife of running a hospitality business, HotelRunner’s essential core features and advanced products are consolidated under an all-inone platform so that hoteliers can utilise the capabilities of AI and automation to their maximum extent and witness their transformative effects on their business. Whether it be performing daily tasks with the powerful Property Management System or managing online reputation with an AI-powered centralised review centre, HotelRunner’s all-in-one platform offers a SaaS-enabled unified sales, operations, distribution, and revenue management products, AI-driven solutions, and a worldwide market network. This platform converges the fragmented travel technologies under a single umbrella.

In contrast to independent solutions, which render each product and service into disconnected vertical silos HotelRunner’s approach offers a unified, fullyintegrated and connected platform to access various features such as PMS, channel manager, booking engine, metasearch integrations, guest relationship management, business intelligence, rate shopping and intelligence, and automations.

In conclusion, by unifying core functionalities, all-in-one platforms attract businesses to up their game by unlocking multiple paths for development with minimum time and source leading to higher revenue growth.

hotelrunner.com

In this piece, we’ll delve into the reasons behind the fondness for all-in-one platforms and how HotelRunner’s cutting-edge technology consolidates multiple functions under a single roof.

TESTING THE WATERS

Renowned for their testing equipment that offers unsurpassed accuracy, ease of use and value for money, Lovibond has become a staple for overnight venues. However, with Lovibond there is more to it than just supplying the equipment, they also offer technical advice, customer support and free training both online and face to face if needed.

Water testing within your facility is becoming more important than ever, whether this is testing leisure facilities or making sure you are complying with L8 requirements. It is essential that the water is tested regularly to make sure it is safe and comfortable and that there is sufficient treatment to ensure you are complying with relevant standards. Most importantly, you need to make sure the water is sanitised and free from harmful bacteria and other pathogens.

Swimming pools should be tested for disinfectant and pH levels at least three times a day. Pools should be run in accordance with the PWTAG (Pool Water Treatment Advisory Group) Code of Practice, and you should have a robust testing and treatment regime.

Hot tubs are covered by the HSE Guidance HSG282, which aims to reduce the risk of legionella and other waterborne infections. This makes the testing and treatment of hot tubs stricter than swimming pools and the dangers of ignoring the requirements more dangerous. This guideline states the levels of chlorine or bromine, the pH and how frequently the water should be tested. It also guides you should things go wrong.

PWTAG and HSG282 state that testing kits should be professional and that test strips should not be used! This is where Lovibond can help you. We have several test kits suitable for pool and hot tub water testing. These kits can either be digital or visual, depending on your requirements.

If you are offering leisure facilities in your hotel, good water quality is essential. One poor review can lead to

loss of confidence, loss of reputation and loss of future bookings, and one serious incident could be devastating. We can also supply kits to help you comply with the requirements of ACoP (Approved Code of Practice) L8, these contain everything for weekly and monthly monitoring. Additionally, if you feel you have a problem, we supply rapid legionella test kits for instant testing and peace of mind.

Our aim is to offer you the best:

• Equipment and reagents at competitive pricing.

• Advice and training to ensure you are following relevant guidelines.

• Customer and after-sales service for continued peace of mind.

For full details see us at the Independent Hotel Show in October or contact us at support@lovibond.uk

With 75 years of experience, the Lovibond Tintometer offers the best system for testing all types of water, and in this exclusive editorial, we learn how there is more to Lovibond than simply supplying firstclass equipment.

A CELEBRATION OF CHARM

In an exclusive interview with Sophie Tanner, Director of Sales and Marketing for Historic Sussex Hotels, we delve into the growth of the brand and how capitalising on trends has contributed to its success.

Please introduce Historic Sussex Hotels and what the collection strives to achieve

Historic Sussex Hotels is a collection of three privately owned hotels set in some of the most beautiful parts of West Sussex. Our three hotels: Bailiffscourt, Ockenden Manor and The Spread Eagle, offer guests a true switch off whether it be by the sea, deep in the countryside or in an historic town. Each hotel shines in their own distinct way: Ockenden Manor is easy escape from London and the Spa is a must. Bailiffscourt is on the beach with plenty of space to unwind and explore and The Spread Eagle, one of the oldest coaching inn’s in England, is filled with history, with plenty of cosy corners and open fires for all British weather.

The collection is a business firmly rooted in family starting in 1957 when Hugh Taylor, the grandfather of Miranda, one of our current Joint Managing Directors acquired The Spread Eagle Hotel in Midhurst. Our current joint Managing Directors, Pontus & Miranda Carminger, are supported by both their family and a close management team providing a winning combination of skills, experience, diversity and enthusiasm for hospitality.

As a team, we are passionate about delighting our guests when they visit us with fabulous four-posters, dreamy

spas and pools, delicious food, amazing treatments, space to explore and time to relax, all served with enthusiastic, friendly and professional service.

Sophie, tell us about your role with the Historic Sussex Hotels and what it entails

My role is Director of Sales and Marketing and I’ve been working closely with the team for nearly 10 years now! There is always something new to embrace or explore and we are continually developing strategies to promote each hotel’s individual allure. I take time to listen to ideas and feedback from everyone: from the chefs, to reception teams, to spa managers and housekeeping and Sussex suppliers, to find inspiration for interesting, considered packages and to find ways to improve, change or tweak our offering so that every stay is special. I love hearing from our guests and taking time to find out what brings them to us.

Can you detail the marketing strategies of the three venues, how they differ and how you ensure there is cohesion?

Our marketing strategies aim to celebrate the distinct and individual charm and strength of each hotel, while grounding

them firmly in Sussex.

We recognise that different guests are drawn to each of the hotels for different reasons. Be it for escape, indulgence or good old fashioned fun, and it might be with the whole family, the four-legged friends or just for two. Equally, their visit might be for a management meeting, product launch or a brain-storming session.

We try to find ways to provide current reasons for the visit, for example our Cycle Electric Sussex package connects our three hotels by e-bike – a growing trend in the UK. Or our Full Moon & Fabulous retreats at Ockenden Manor lead with nature and wellbeing. Our latest Step into Sussex concept simply embraces people’s desire to walk and explore, be it for a ‘walk and work’ meeting to get the creative juices flowing or for a wander with a friend.

I passionately believe that Sussex is on its way to becoming the next Cotswolds as the default destination out of London, for both domestic and international visitors, which is very exciting. Our three hotels are in the only county in the UK with so much sparkle: sparkling wine (138+ award-winning vineyards), sparkling stars (The South Downs National Park in Sussex is one of just six Dark Sky Reserves in England - one of only 21 worldwide, and the sparkling sea (you’ll find some of the best coastline and beaches, and the mildest climate in the country), making Sussex the ideal county to dip your toes in English waters.

What trends have you noticed post-pandemic and how has the collection capitalised on them?

Travel has become more meaningful; guests seek more than a good hotel and want to feel purpose behind their

travels whether that is to switch off, to explore the local area, to reconnect with family and friends, to indulge – they want their travel experiences to make a mark and create a memory. This has always been something we strive to achieve and a trend, certainly working in our favour, is that staycations are still the informed travel choice for many. Not just an older generation who don’t want to travel further, but anyone who wants a genuine escape and to avoid the expense, hassle and sustainable dilemma of flying. We have not had to change to embrace this and continue to offer a quiet reassurance of a wonderful stay, that keep guests coming back.

What are the plans for the future with Historic Sussex Hotels and how do you plan on successfully nailing these?

We plan to work hard as a team to continue doing what we are doing! We are opening a pub, local to Bailiffscourt in Spring 2024, so that’s quite a learning curve at the moment.

I would love to grow our US customer-base and am keen to work with more luxury tour operators from UK, Europe and the US to our hotels. The local vineyards and gardens are proving very attractive on this front, and I think this combined with our authenticity makes us appealing option for both the tour operators and MICE bookers.

We will continue to develop thoughtful collaborations, partnerships and experiences with brands and local businesses that align with HSH, including local vineyards or Sussex-born lifestyle brands. Sussex is special and we are proud to celebrate that.

www.hshotels.co.uk

“I take time to listen to ideas and feedback from everyone: from the chefs, to reception teams.”

ARE YOU BEING SHORTCHANGED?

Cash shrinkage refers to the loss of cash within a business, either through theft, errors, or other forms of mismanagement. It is a significant concern for businesses of all sizes and is common in the hospitality industry, often reducing profits by 15% to 20%. In this article, we will explore the causes of cash shrinkage, its consequences, and strategies to prevent it.

One of the primary causes of cash shrinkage is employee theft. Unfortunately, at times employees may take advantage of their positions to steal cash from the business. This can occur through various means, such as pocketing cash from sales transactions, manipulating records, or skimming money from the cash register. Employee theft can be challenging to detect, especially if the business lacks proper internal controls and monitoring systems.

Another cause of cash shrinkage is external theft. Businesses that deal with cash transactions are vulnerable to robberies and burglaries. Criminals may target businesses with lax security measures or those located in

high-crime areas. These incidents can result in significant cash losses and may also lead to physical harm to employees or customers.

Errors and mistakes can also contribute to cash shrinkage. Inaccurate cash handling, such as giving incorrect change or miscounting cash, can result in immediate losses. Additionally, errors in recording transactions or reconciling cash registers can lead to discrepancies between the actual cash on hand and the recorded amount. These discrepancies can go unnoticed for extended periods, resulting in substantial cash shrinkage over time.

The consequences of cash shrinkage can be severe for businesses. Financially, it directly impacts the bottom

line, reducing profits and potentially leading to cash flow problems. To prevent cash shrinkage, businesses must implement robust internal controls and security measures.

Here are some strategies that can help mitigate the risk:

Implement strict cash handling procedures: Establish clear guidelines for employees on how to handle cash transactions. This includes procedures for counting cash, giving change, and reconciling cash registers. Regular training and reinforcement of these procedures are essential to ensure compliance.

Separate cash handling duties: Divide cash handling responsibilities among multiple employees to create a system of checks and balances. For example, one employee can handle cash transactions, while another is responsible for reconciling the cash register at the end of each shift.

Install surveillance systems:

Install security cameras in strategic locations, such as cash registers and entrances. Visible surveillance systems act as a deterrent to potential thieves and can provide valuable evidence in case of theft or robbery.

Conduct regular cash audits:

Regularly audit cash registers and compare the recorded amounts with the actual cash on hand. This helps identify discrepancies and potential issues early on. Additionally, surprise audits can discourage employees from engaging in theft or fraudulent activities.

Implement cash control software:

Utilise cash control software that tracks cash transactions and provides real-time reporting. This software can help identify irregularities and suspicious activities, allowing businesses to take immediate action.

Foster a culture of integrity:

Promote a culture of honesty and integrity within the organisation. Encourage employees to report any suspicious activities or concerns they may have. Implement a whistleblower policy that protects employees who come forward with information about theft or fraud.

In conclusion, cash shrinkage is a significant concern for businesses, as it can lead to financial losses, damage reputation, and erode customer trust. By implementing robust internal controls, security measures, and fostering a culture of integrity, businesses can mitigate the risk of cash shrinkage. Regular monitoring, training, and audits are essential to ensure compliance and detect any potential issues early on. By taking proactive measures, businesses can protect their cash assets and maintain a healthy financial position.

G4S Cash Solutions UK Ltd are leading experts in helping companies solve this growing problem, with a range of technology solutions that include features designed to combat a range of cash handling challenges including shrinkage.

Why not put the pounds back in your till and spend your time focusing on your business. We would be happy to discuss how we can help you - call G4S Cash Solutions UK Ltd on 0845 644 1239 option 1 and quote code FY23_Hotel

BOUNCING BACK WITH BABYBEL

As

Growing Pains

The growth in inbound visitors post-pandemic, forecasted to be 18% higher this year than last2, marks a positive uplift for the sector. However, as hospitality staff are increasingly overstretched, it also presents new challenges. With 67% of venues lacking non-head chefs and 36% lacking kitchen porters3, the increase in the number of meals served is further adding to the pressure on workers. This makes the need for convenient, easy-serve options a must to support sector staff. Babybel, the No.1 snacking cheese brand4, is serving up a solution.

Banish the Block

Unlike block cheeses, where timely processes are required to prepare products for serving, Babybel, a globally recognised brand that’s sure to be loved by international and British guests alike, is ready to serve with no preparation required. Not just a convenient, nutritious5, and delicious option for travelers, Babybel’s easy-to-serve format also minimises labour for overstretched hotel works and caterers.

Providing a quick and convenient solution to replenishing the buffet when food runs out, the easy-serve format can optimise staff response time, minimising chances of a reduction in quality customer service for guests. With 48% of hotel guests likely to write a review after a negative experience6, as 81% of travellers read reviews before booking accommodation7, promoting a positive experience across all areas of service is key.

Say Farewell to Food Waste

Babybel’s individually wrapped format also provides a convenient solution to another issue facing the industry, food waste. Food waste generated by Britain’s hospitality sector amounts to a staggering 920,000 tonnes each year8. Babybel’s sealed and hygienic format helps minimise this issue, as it is able to be served again the following day if not

tourism bounces back following the pandemic, labour shortages mean hospitality staff are busier than ever. Serving individually wrapped food options such as Babybel, the UK’s No.1 snacking cheese1 can provide a convenient solution, satisfying both guests and staff.

consumed, unlike traditional hotel buffet choices, such as cooked food, bread, and pastries, which need to be thrown out following service. With 58% of people wanting to stay in accommodation with environmentally friendly practices9, food service options resulting in less wastage not only deliver clear sustainability kudos, but also money saving benefits to the operator.

Post-Covid Credentials

Whilst insights show the sector is in recovery post-pandemic, hotel guests are still seeking comfort and reassurance, and this goes beyond simple accommodation cleanliness, extending to food and drink options too. With three in four diners citing health and safety concerns as the biggest deterrent to dining out following Covid-1910, health and hygiene remain firmly on the consumer agenda, meaning visibly ‘safe’ buffet options are sure to appeal in a post-covid travelscape. Individually wrapped, Babybel offers a simple solution to serving up a buffet staple for hotel guests, with health11 and hygiene provisions in place with minimal input from staff.

The New Eat-conomy

The challenging economic market has seen consumers become increasingly mindful of how and where they spend their money, and with insights highlighting how modernising breakfast and lunch menus by adding flexible and convenient options such as picnic lunches will help entice guests to add meals to their room rates, rather than eat elsewhere12, Babybel’s individually wrapped format offers the perfect option to meet this consumer appetite.

A must-stock for hotels looking to entice guests to boost their internal spend during their stay, Babybel is loved by adults and kids alike, with with one-in-four households buying into the brand13. As a fun, portion controlled, real cheese, Babybel Original is a great source of protein and calcium. Vegetarian friendly and lactose free, with a 20g serving containing 34% less fat than cheddar and 59 calories, it also adheres to Public Health England’s recommended calorie cap for children’s snacks14, giving it broad family appeal.

For more information on Babybel’s full foodservice range including stockists please visit www.belfoodservice.co.uk/product-range

PRIORITISING PROFIT

In an exclusive interview with Louis King, Founder and Director of Simplypay, we explore the benefits their payment platform presents to a modern hotel business.

Please introduce us to the brand.

I’ve worked in the hospitality industry for over seven years, with multiple providers. Simplypay was designed to do exactly what it says on the tin: Card Payments, Simplified. We provide Modern Electronic Point of Sale, combined with enterprise-grade payment solutions, to SME and Mid-Market businesses. Our EPOS product has been on the market for nearly ten years, with Simplypay joining the partnership around a year ago. We also provide standalone card terminals, virtual terminals and E-Commerce, as well as Dynamic Currency Conversion (which can allow hoteliers to offset their card processing bill).

What makes Simplypay stand out from other payment providers on the market?

For us, we are very much a low volume, high service provider – the polar opposite of the majority of payment companies whose goal is to board as many customers as possible, struggling to keep up with service demands.

Tell us about the SimplyPOS solutions and the benefits this presents to a hotel business.

We provide business in your hands. With full hospitality EPOS, tabs, kitchen printers, reservations, liquid management, centralised stock, pricing and reporting. SimplyPOS is not just about executing payment, managing inventory and keeping records. It’s about business management and providing a point of customer service.

SimplyPOS is an innovative, cost-effective and modern EPOS solution combined with enterprise class support.

Designed for simplicity, the Plus edition of SimplyPOS provides enhanced functionality to the hospitality market such as automated text reminders, table management, and a full CRM system, which allows you to interact with a customer encouraging repeat business. SimplyPOS provides operational efficiency to maximise covers, make reservations and reduce no-shows. It allows small to medium-sized hospitality businesses to harness enterprise efficiencies at an affordable price point.

How can our readers work with you?

Firstly, we’ll meet with you either virtually or in-person to discuss your hotel’s current set up and pain points you’re experiencing. At this meeting, if we feel our businesses are a good fit for each other, we’ll survey the premises and submit a proposal for your consideration. Should you wish to go ahead, we’ve got a few set up options depending on your chosen package – either a full engineer install (by our own engineering team), or a remote install where we can essentially have an out of the box solution. Regarding payment, we are accredited to offer finance from various finance houses simplypay.uk

UNDERCOVER AL FRESCO

Designing a welcoming outdoor space entices guests in warmer months and opens up opportunities for holding larger events, as well as being able to cater for more people. Finding outdoor shelters to suit your space is now easier than ever, with Woodberry’s bespoke range and we have all the details.

Would a covered patio area have made a difference this summer? Would you consider getting something installed for next summer?

And not just for summer, how is your outdoors working for you now as we head into autumn and winter? Could you make a cosy feature of al fresco?

Bespoke outdoor shelters are easier to plan and have installed than you may think and can be an all-year-round benefit and feature for your outdoor hospitality.

Woodberry, expert suppliers of commercial furniture and gazebos, now offers a large range of bespoke outdoor shelters measured and built to your requirements.

Where to start?

Woodberry’s expert advice is to think carefully about what you will use a covered area for, what space you have, the accessibility of that space and what structure will suit your venue aesthetically.

Don’t be put off by a challenging location

Our expert installation team like a challenge, recently they have built gazebos at the side of a lake and on a floating pontoon at a marina.

We try to cater for any requirements, so don’t be put off by the challenges of your venue because we certainly aren’t.

Bespoke Wooden Gazebos

If your venue has a rustic location, a wooden gazebo might be best. Built to your specific dimensions, these wooden shelters are available with three different roof styles (pyramid, flat or apex), you can choose the colour of your timber treatment and the felt roof colour. There are side panel options, lights and heaters to choose from too.

Bespoke Metal Gazebos

Made from toughened aluminum, these gazebos are created to your specific measurements. With the option to choose from a range of roof styles in glass or polycarbonate, you can also select different sides and doors, and even choose the colour of the metal powder coating.

Clients have used these to cover terrace’s adjoining buildings, creating covered walkways, as free-standing shelters on patios and lawns.

Bespoke Luxury Gazebos

With electronic remote operated louvered roofs, these luxury bespoke gazebos are great in any weather. Open the roof for light and shade, close it for a fully waterproof roof. These metal shelters can be built to specific measurements with a choice of metal colour, side panel options, integrated LED spotlights and heaters.

Talk to the Woodberry Team

Contact our expert team on 01926 889922. Email mail@woodberry.co.uk www.woodberry.co.uk

STAYING ON TARGET

UKHospitality has been working hard to ensure members, including hotels, have the tools to deliver government environmental objectives, and to build businesses whose day-to-day operations consider the environment.

We’re delighted, then, to invite you to UKHospitality’s Sustainability Seminar on Wednesday 11 October, at Six Park Place, London. The event runs from 10am-1pm, with registration from 9.30am. And how about this as an incentive to attend? Tickets for operator members are free.

The seminar will prompt debate and highlight some of the remarkable work being done in the sector, as it strives to become more sustainable, with leading industry speakers and special guests addressing delegates and answering your questions.

Among those involved will be hotel expert Serena von der Heyde and Celia Gaze of The Wellbeing Farm, who’ll look at cultural shifts in organisations that promote sustainability; while operators including Burger King UK’s Tim Doubleday, the Zero Carbon Forum’s Mark Chapman, and Jerome Baddley of Centre Parcs will discuss initiatives implemented by major players in the race to net zero.

There’ll also be panels looking at how operators and suppliers are working together to reduce emissions, and what the future of packaging looks like for the sector as it continues to decarbonise.

It promises to be a valuable morning for those hospitality businesses determined to help the sector achieve its sustainability goals, but, as I’ve already mentioned, there’s lots more that UKHospitality is already doing to support the industry.

For example, we’ve launched our Environmental Sustainability Guide https://www.ukhospitality.org.uk/ work/sustainability-guide/ for the industry’s SMEs,

offering them ways to achieve net zero, including reviewing menus to incorporate more locally produced goods and plant dishes.

Then there’s our partnership with Sky Zero and the Zero Carbon Forum, offering operators a carbon calculator that provides a clear understanding of their emissions and what they can do to reduce them. You can sign-up to the calculator here.

UKHospitality has also teamed-up with food waste charity WRAP and its hospitality-specific Guardians of Grub campaign to reduce food waste, and we have an entire hub of advice and resources on how to reduce your food waste to help you on the journey.

Lots going on, then, and with sustainability so important for our sector, I hope you’ll look more closely at some of the initiatives we’re involved with and, of course, that you’ll be at the seminar, on 11 October. For full details and to book your place, please go here.

Kate Nicholls Chief Executive UKHospitality

Hospitality has been a leading industry when it comes to taking up and running with sustainable practices, but the sector is entering a crucial phase in dealing with climate change, which makes environmental sustainability vitally important if we’re to achieve our 2040 net-zero targets. Kate Nicholls, Chief Executive at UKHospitality reveals all.

ENHANCING GUEST EXPERIENCES

To bridge the gap between traditional methods and modern travellers, Kayana has developed a revolutionary QR Code Room Service. We find out all about this innovative technology in this exclusive editorial, focusing on how it enables hotels to provide guests with a seamless and sophisticated way to access services while simultaneously streamlining operations through an easy-to-use platform.

The Collaborative Beta Test:

Collaborating closely with Tonk Park Hotel, Kayana embarked on an intensive beta testing phase to validate the effectiveness and viability of their QR Code Room Service. The hotel outfitted selected guest rooms with distinct QR codes, providing guests with access to a bespoke digital platform tailored to their distinctive needs. Be it room service requests or housekeeping requisitions, all amenities were conveniently available at the swipe of a smartphone screen.

Effortless Access and Tailored Experiences:

Guests enjoyed effortless access to in-room services by simply scanning a QR code with their smartphones. This intuitive digital approach effectively replaced the traditional process of phoning reception or liaising with staff. Through direct interaction with a QR code, guests could explore the comprehensive menu, make their selections, and effortlessly place orders, bypassing the need to queue or navigate intricate phone menus.

Precision through Digital Connectivity:

This digital process seamlessly channelled exclusive details, including room numbers, preferences, and timings, directly to the hotel’s kitchen. This empowered the culinary team to fulfil orders meticulously and with unwavering precision, ensuring each guest’s culinary desires were met to perfection.

Staying Informed and Engaged:

The Kayana QR Code experience extended beyond the point of order placement. Guests received real-time updates on their orders through SMS, ensuring they remained informed about their order’s status. Additionally, the avenue for

feedback was open. Through Kayana’s intuitive survey, guests could share their insights, adding depth to the hotel’s service delivery.

The beta trial underscored the transformative potential of Kayana’s innovative solution.

Enhancing Guest Experiences, One QR Code at a Time

The streamlined process significantly reduced the time and resources required to manage guest requests. Staff could allocate their time more strategically, focusing on delivering personalised experiences rather than administrative tasks.

By adopting innovative technology, Tonk Park Hotel projected an image of modernity and responsiveness, aligning with the preferences of today’s travellers. This positive perception attracts a broader customer base and has helped the business foster guest loyalty.

Find out more about KAYANA’s QR Code iNNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY

www.kayana.co.uk/qr-code-ordering/

To talk to an expert, head to www.kayana.co.uk

ELEVATING GUEST EXPERIENCES

In this exclusive editorial, we discover branded amenity collaborations from Buzz and learn about the opportunities the range presents to hotels in order to elevate the overall guest experience.

Branded amenities are a thoughtful touch that can create a premium spa-like experience. Guests can feel reassured by brands they know and covet, and this can evoke a sense of indulgence that leaves a lasting impression.

The sensory experience of using luxurious products contributes to the overall ambience of the hotel stay. The scents, textures, and aesthetics of these products create a multisensory journey that engages hotel guests.

Incorporating branded bathroom amenities crafts an immersive and memorable stay for guests, it’s a testament to the hotels dedication to providing a superior, holistic experience that lingers in the minds and hearts of guests long after they’ve checked out.

Buzz Creating Iconic Brand Partnerships

For over two decades Buzz has created iconic brand collaborations for leading airlines and hotels that deliver memorable experiences for travellers. Buzz travel collaborations are inspired by design and innovation, with a focus on giving back positively to the planet and communities.

Buzz has partnered with iconic brands including TUMI, Tom Dixon, and Verso to deliver a luxurious selection of amenities designed to elevate a guest’s stay.

Tom Dixon Collection at Jackalope

Australia’s most awarded hotel, Jackalope, recently launched Tom Dixon bathroom amenities for their guests. Created by Buzz, the Tom Dixon Collection at Jackalope includes shampoo, conditioner, body wash, body lotion, and soap bars.

The Buzz Luxury Hotel Range provides a warm welcome for guests and includes bathroom amenities, sustainable dry amentities, turndown service items, sleep and wellness, loungewear, bedding and textiles, VIP gifting, and kids’ activity products.

The collection includes a complete range of dry amenity products such as mending kits, grooming kits, shave kits, and bath salts.

With a commitment to innovation, sustainability and honest ingredients, the Tom Dixon amenity collection is specifically designed for distinction and to elevate the senses.

The amenity range features the Tom Dixon Underground fragrance, an evocative blend of ginger, cardamon and vetiver, and nourishing botanical ingredients.

Buzz currently partners with Marriot, Hilton, IHG, Belmond, Capella, and Niccolo hotels worldwide. For more information on the Buzz Hotel collection, visit buzzproducts.com

VIEW FROM THE MARKET

Philip Johnston MRICS, Director of Guildprop, Hotel and Leisure Property Consultants based in Central London, gives an insight to the current state of the hospitality market.

As the summer break draws to a close the market was even quieter than usual and not aided by further interest rate rises and stubbornly high inflation in the UK.

The Bank of England increased bank rates up to 5.25% and yet only 20 months ago this was 0.1%. This combined with utilities and rates worries a year ago, has severely stalled the hotel property sector. The cost of borrowing has meant equity investors have the ascendency, but are looking for bargains, whilst sellers are reluctant to reduce prices too much, whilst generally trading well.

However, there were transactions in the first half of the year, mainly under £25m, and there is an underlying sentiment that the final quarter is starting to show signs of more convergence, supported by a levelling off in the cost of debt, with movement from a “wait and see” attitude towards more active decision making from both buyers and sellers. This will be encouraged by a clearer positive view on full-year 2023 trading, and confidence in the hotel market, especially compared with some other asset classes.

Transactions have been fuelled by owner-operators and the private markets, with deals below £25M accounting for 80% of transactions in H1. Volumes have been supported by office conversions, with hotels being viable in the right locations.

For the coming 12 months, we anticipate increased lender pressure rather than outright distress in sales, whilst yields remain untested, with evidence on failed marketing processes rather than actual trades. Market sentiment is holding steady, although yields have moved out by 75150 bps but a scarcity of trades has resulted in a lack of transactional evidence.

As of June 2023, the last twelve-months ADR stood at £115, 22% ahead of 2019 levels (+2.3% real growth). Occupancy sits 100 bps behind at 76.7%, but this is forecast to be on par with 2019 by year-end 2023. The difference between RevPAR and GOPPAR growth has widened since pre-COVID, because of upward pressure on the cost base.

However, recently this has seen this cost base remain

relatively stable, suggesting that market forces are beginning to come into effect. It is difficult to calculate real room supply due to the alternative usage of some hotels for displaced individuals via ‘Humanitarian Contracts’.

The UK’s ability to absorb growing supply has been effective in the past. Overnights in hotels are expected to be on par with 2019 levels.

As we’re going to press Huw Pill, Bank of England’s top economist says UK interest rates may not rise further. Let’s hope that is correct as that may then signal a perceived shift in market sentiment.

guildprop.com

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