Hotelier & Hospitality Design - May 2024

Hotelier & Hospitality Design

The Mermaid Garden Opens in Cowes, Isle of Wight for Summer 2024

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MAY 2024

10 POGO Charge Delivers First of New Ultra-Rapid Charging Habs for Kew Green Hotels at Holiday Inn Birmingham.

12 Lack Of Real Time Information Contributing To Poor Food And Beverages B2b Online Purchase Experience, New Report Finds

20 Sommet Education Unveils New Step In Strategic Digital Expansion With Online Executive Certificates

020 805 09659 hello@hotelierandhospitality.com

The QHotels Collection announces outstanding achievements and shining stars at third QYou Awards

The QHotels Collection, the group of 19 hotels and resorts across the UK, has announced the winners of its annual QYou Awards, which took place 27th March in a fun, 1980s-themed ceremony at the group’s Chesford Grange Hotel, Warwickshire.

The QYou Awards celebrate the brilliant achievements and success delivered by the shining stars across the business, and those who go the extra mile to demonstrate true passion for hospitality.

Richard Moore, Group Chief Executive of The QHotels Collection said: “We are proud to celebrate tonight’s winners and the fantastic achievements from 2023 recognising outstanding performance, innovation and dedication.

I am very proud of what we have achieved and what the future holds for The QHotels Collection, which simply couldn’t happen without our people. The awards give us a chance to shine a spotlight on individuals and teams who had been leading lights, curiosity seekers, and the best version of themselves in all they have achieved across The Collection.

As a business, a memorable experience for every single guest who chooses to stay with us is something we are all incredibly passionate about. We strive every day to build a strong, positive reputation with all who encounter us, our people, our guests, and those who we choose to partner with.”

L-R: Dan Riddington; Oulton Hall team; Jo Thornily; Callum Carter-Russel; Andrew Price; Lisa Brown; Richard Moore; Mike Stenson; Cathy Clough; Jemma Chalmers; Emily Poole; Lauren Belcher

With its collection of stunning hotels and resorts, from secluded rural hideaways to sophisticated city hotspots for couples, families, golfers, spa and business guests, the people behind The QHotels Collection share a passion for above-and-beyond service. As leaders in hospitality, the group is always striving to be an organisation its people are very much proud to be a part of, by making it a vibrant place to work, creating exciting opportunities for everyone, and carving out a future that flourishes.

The business has invested heavily in its portfolio, people and its operations and it continues to go from strength to strength. In 2023, The QHotels Collection achieved year end goals, as well as securing growth in its reputation scores, an area which continues to be a number one focus towards achieving ultimate success.

Winners of the QYou Awards were chosen by their colleagues, who were invited to nominate individuals in their teams for their greatest achievements, including game-changing successes, their connections with guests, their creative and curious minds and, the innovators and trailblazers that have made the difference.

The 11 awards included a new category this year; for Brand Excellence and Innovation, which was awarded to Emily Poole and Jemma Chalmers from the Marketing Team at Head Office. Fondly known as Jemily, the pair have worked with innovation and creativity over the last year to make the vision of Project Phoenix, the renovation and redesign of The QHotels Collection websites, a further important evolution of the brand.

Other key successes on the night included:

Manager of the Year, Joanne Thorniley. As Event & Group Sales Manager at Chesford Grange Hotel, Joanne has reformed the entire sales office, taking her team to new levels and going the extra mile, guaranteeing that customers leave happy and wishing to return.

Team Member of the Year (Front of House) Catherine Clough, an F&B Team Member at The Telford Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort. Cathy is caring and cheerful, a ‘Breakfast Queen’ striving to ensure that all guests have a great start to their day.

Operations Manager of the Year, Andrew Price, Oulton Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort. Since Andrew

joined Oulton Hall, he has established himself as an integral part of the leadership team and he exceeds guest expectations through his attention to detail.

Team Member of the Year (Behind the Scenes), Maintenance Team Member Raymond Dobbie is a vital member of the maintenance team at the DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Westerwood Spa & Golf Resort, dedicated to his role and a fountain of knowledge.

The Hotel of the Year was awarded to Oulton Hall, which has seen considerable growth and exponential improvement in guest experience, quality and reputation driven by the whole team.

THE AWARD WINNERS LIST IN FULL

Excellence & Innovation Award: Emily Poole and Jemma Chalmers – Marketing, Head Office

General Manager of the Year: Michael Stenson, General Manager at Forest Pines & Belton Woods

Hotel of the Year: Oulton Hall Hotel

Manager of the Year: Joanne Thorniley, Event & Group Sales Manager at Chesford Grange Hotel

Operations Manager of the Year: Andrew Price, Operations Manager at Oulton Hall hotel

Supervisor of the Year: Callum Carter Russell, Assistant Health Club and Spa Manager at Cambridge Belfry Hotel & Spa

Team Member of the Year - Behind the scenes: Raymond Dobbie, Maintenance Team Member at DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Westerwood

Team Member of the Year - Central Support: Daniel Riddington, Senior IT Engineer, Head Office

Team Member of the Year - Events Sales & Finance: Lisa Brown, Finance Manager at Belton Woods Hotel

Team Member of the Year – Front of House: Catherine Clough, F&B Team Member at Telford Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort

Team Member of the Year - Golf, Health Club & Spa: Lauren Belcher, Spa Manager at Delta by Marriott Nottingham

TOP OF THE TREE THE RISE AND ROSEMULLION

Rosemullion Distillery’s Iconic Dry Gin is voted ‘The Best in England’ (World Drinks Awards 2024). Outperforming big brands for 6 Years, 61 awards and counting.

AND RISE OF ROSEMULLION

Helford based, family run Artisan distillery, Rosemullion, are delighted to announce that they have again come out on top, winning the England title at the World Drinks Awards 2024 for their iconic Dry Gin. This prestigious accolade now brings their award tally to 61, making Rosemullion one of the most awarded distilleries in the country. This winning cycle, which began in 2019, is all the more remarkable for this small but dedicated distillery as it has consistently outperformed bigger or more long established brands in doing so well for so long.

The World Drinks Awards are highly respected by both consumers and traders alike and are crucial in recognizing, rewarding and promoting the world’s best spirits to all markets. The selection process is rigorous and includes blind tasting by a carefully chosen panel of International experts. Rosemullion’s winning Dry Gin is based on a traditional recipe made by the Bradbury family and their team – it ‘presents’ as a clean tasting, big-hearted drink which is based on a bold blend of juniper, citrus fruits and botanicals.

Rosemullion’s continuing success story owes a lot to the background of its founders Liz and Andy Bradbury –both are chemists with years of past experience in product development and improvement processes such as Kaizen, 6-sigma and TQM. Speaking today, Andy explains why, in his opinion, Rosemullion spirits have been so successful - “utilizing our experience, we make classic spirits, not sugar flavoured, additive laden spirits, so our Gins purely taste of gin, not ‘fruit shoots’. Similarly, we want our rums to taste of rum and not be hidden by sugars and vanilla etc. To achieve good gin, rum and whisky the foundation is in the fermentation, which provides a firm footing for creating great spirits. We also draw upon our unique surroundings to underscore our provenance – Helford rainwater is used in the fermentation and distillation process, complemented by local Cornish ingredients plus seasonal fruit from our own orchard and vines.

rosemulliondistillery.com

We only produce small batches to ensure optimum quality control. We aim always to be the protectors and perfecters of the distillery craft, constantly looking to improve even category winners”.

In addition to the previous factors, Rosemullion also strives to maintain ethical, responsible and sustainable practices. Rosemullion are registered with Cornwall Council’s ‘Made in Cornwall’ scheme – hence they are audited in terms of what they say they do, covering the fermentation, distilling and aging processes carried out on their site. In terms of minimizing their environmental impact they have a rainwater catchment system and minimize their water consumption by recycling their cooling water for use in the fermenters. They also minimize the use of plastic from suppliers and all their own plastic and cardboard waste is sent to recyclers. Finally they pay more for their distribution boxes so they can reuse them.

Special offer available for all trade orders until 31 August 2024; please use this code when ordering: EATDRINKSLEEP15%

Rosemullion Founders, Liz and Andy Bradbury

Rosemullion’s Dry Gin has been awarded Best Classic Gin in England at the World Gin Awards 2024.

It’s the classic gin category where the gin lovers are constantly seeking perfection.

LACK OF REAL-TIME INFORMATION FOOD AND BEVERAGES B2B ONLINE NEW REPORT FINDS

Hokodo, the B2B eCommerce Association, OroCommerce and Greenwood Consulting have released a joint report that explores the habits and e-commerce expectations of business buyers.

The report found that 93% of F&B B2B buyers surveyed make their purchases via online platforms. Of this, 69% make over half of all their purchases online and 98% said they will make more or the same number of purchases online in 2024 as they did last year, signifying the growing prevalence of e-commerce in F&B business trade.

However, respondents said that they often face a poor user experience with online checkouts; 50% of F&B B2B buyers said the biggest issue is not being able to see real-time product availability. Alongside this, many noted a poor UX (45%) and lack of a repeat order option (43%). With the majority of F&B B2B purchases taking place online, it’s essential that sellers perfect their user experience, or face being abandoned by potential customers in favour of tech-savvy sellers.

How they pay is important to F&B B2B buyers too, particularly when it comes to alternative payment methods. 48% of F&B respondents would prefer to use mobile payments, while 86% noted they will abandon a purchase if payment terms are not available. Other areas of improvement included more transparency around shipping costs and other fees (44%) and better customer support (43%). In the consumer segment, the report notes, shoppers are used to one-click checkouts, slick customer service and transparent pricing, suggesting that these issues should be solvable on a B2B platform, too.

Alongside original data points and analysis, the report makes a number of recommendations that F&B B2B sellers can implement in order to improve their checkout and user experience. With every F&B respondent agreeing that it’s important for B2B suppliers to sell online in 2024, the report helps sellers to navigate the expectations of buyers, and explains how B2B sellers can improve their e-commerce platforms in order to meet the standard of service expected in the consumer segment.

Louis Carbonnier, Co-founder and President of Hokodo said:

“The findings of this survey reinforce what we at Hokodo have always known: payment terms are a must-have for B2B e-commerce transactions. We’ve spent the past six years developing and refining solutions that address this critical need, empowering merchants to offer flexible payment terms, instantly, at the point of need, even on a customer’s first purchase.”

Christopher Gee, UK Chapter Lead of the B2B eCommerce Association said:

“Gone are the days when customers would put up with complex, manual, offline processes. Their experiences as consumers are simply too good for them to accept anything less at work – so it’s more important than ever that B2B sellers get the buyer experience right.”

Visit Hokodo to download the full report.

About Hokodo

Hokodo is the leading provider of flexible payment terms for European merchants and marketplaces. Bringing all the elements of trade credit management onto one platform, Hokodo enables business buyers to access payment terms even on their first purchase, while merchants get paid upfront and in full, and remain 100% protected from risk. Hokodo is driven by rich data and backed by Lloyd’s of London to insure payments and ensure peace of mind.

Transform your hotel or restaurant with the style and sophistication of a contemporary electric fire.

The DRU Virtuo Evolve transforms any hospitality setting, creating a beautiful focal point to make you feel at home.

It has realistic flames, authentic sound effects and remote or app controls, with multiple flame colours and patterns.

There are a choice of models and designs and the fires can be combined with media walls, false chimneys and other architectural features.

And with zero emissions and low energy consumption, the Virtuo Evolve combines luxury with sustainability.

Virtuo Evolve in hotel Wellness suite

Virtuo Evolve in traditional hotel lobby

Designed with safety in mind

With the Virtuo Evolve, you have no safety concerns. The fire is cool to touch, with a realistic, projected flame picture and an optional heating element.

Minimal maintenance and running costs

Unlike gas or wood burning fires, Virtuo Evolve requires no regular servicing or maintenance and the energy consumption is exceptionally low.

Timeless and updateable

Virtuo Evolve is an electric fire for life. It has four standard flame effects and a bed of glowing embers, all of which the user can adjust for brightness and intensity.

Totally realistic

Because the Virtuo Evolve has a projected flame picture, it is identical to an actual log fire, underpinned by authentic glowing embers. There is even the sound of crackling wood.

Totally sustainable.

Virtuo Evolve creates zero emissions, releases no greenhouse gases and only requires a standard domestic electricity supply.

Easy to install

Virtuo Evolve requires no chimney, flue or ventilation points. It can be installed in hotel lobbies, bedrooms, restaurants, wellness suites and many other hospitality settings.

For an expert consultation by one of our design team, email info@drufire.co.uk or visit www.drufire.com

Virtuo Evolve in hotel sea view bedroom

ALTO-SHAAM APPOINTS NEW CORPORATE EXECUTIVE CHEF FOR EUROPE, THE MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA (EMEA)

Further investing in its strategic growth plans across Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA), Alto-Shaam has promoted Walter Antunes De Campos Neto to the role of Corporate Executive Chef EMEA.

Walter joined Alto-Shaam as European Executive Chef in 2020, demonstrating the capabilities of Alto-Shaam’s complete equipment kitchen solutions through live cooking demos and product training. Prior to joining Alto-Shaam, Walter worked as a cooking teacher and chef de cuisine at the renowned Chefactory cooking academy in Florence, teaching Italian cuisine in four languages – Italian, English, Spanish and Portuguese.

In his new role, Walter will serve as an application specialist, working in close support of AltoShaam’s global culinary team in executing the business’ strategic plans and objectives across the EMEA region. He will also be responsible for leading culinary and product demonstrations, as well as training activities and menu consultations for key customers, partners and dealers across the region.

“Since joining the business in 2020, Walter has played a crucial role in the continued development and expansion of the business across EMEA”, says Francesca La Chiusa, AltoShaam European Sales Director.

“His wealth of experience and expertise working as a chef, and as an educator, has been invaluable to the business, he has embraced every challenge and always works to provide our customers and partners with the highest level of support and service”, Francesca continues. “I look forward to continue working closely with Walter as we continue our growth across EMEA.”

www.alto-shaam.com

Walter Antunes de Campos Neto

Network of branches located throughout the UK

Over 25,000 products

Leading brands & ranges

Outstanding customer service teams

Reliable delivery from our own eet of vehicles

ISO 9001 & ISO 14001 accreditation

CHARGE POINT OPERATOR BELIEV

OFFERING FOR BUSINESSES AT DRINK EXPO

Our zero-cost, endto-end solution means we can help retailers and the hospitality sector to facilitate more sustainable transport options, and reduce emissions... “ “

Electric Vehicle (EV) charge point operator (CPO) Believ, will be exhibiting at the 2024 Food and Drink Expo, from the 29 April to 1 May, to showcase how its zero-cost charge point installation solution supports businesses within the retail and hospitality sectors, and what commercial benefits EV infrastructure can deliver.

Believ’s end-to-end, fully funded solution supports retailers and eateries from identifying which charging speeds are required to best serve the needs of businesses’ visitors, employees and stakeholders, to planning and installation, and all the way through to ongoing maintenance.

Its ‘always-on’ business model relies on ensuring charge points are always operational and used as much as possible, and therefore inherently mitigates downtime, helping businesses to increase footfall and dwell time. It delivers a competitive host remuneration package, to enhance carpark revenues.

Senior Business Partnerships Manager, Kev Ledger, says EV infrastructure creates a better offering to visitors, while also delivering commercial and environmental benefits to businesses:

“We’re really excited to be at this year’s Food and Drink expo – it’s a fantastic opportunity for us to communicate the far-reaching benefits of installing charge points for businesses,” says Dan.

Senior Business Partnerships Manager, Kev Ledger

BELIEV SPOTLIGHTS ITS TASTY AT THE 2024 FOOD AND

“Our zero-cost, end-to-end solution means we can help retailers and the hospitality sector to facilitate more sustainable transport options, and reduce emissions – while also removing the capital expenditure and personnel resource challenges that we know many businesses in these industries face. Our offering means businesses not only ensure EV charging attracts customers, but that it also delivers them commercial benefits.”

You can find Believ in hall 19, stand V269.

SOMMET EDUCATION NEW STEP IN STRATEGIC EXPANSION WITH ONLINE EXECUTIVE CERTIFICATES

Sommet Education, an international in hospitality management education, unveiled a new step in its strategic expansion initiative.

Focused on elevating executive and lifelong learning, the group of innovative online executive certificates to meet professionals’ needs and enhance their expertise across diverse industries, which available through Glion Institute of Higher Education and Les next month.

The surge in digital education represents a transformative shift learning landscape, driven by advancements in technology and demands in the job market. As highlighted in 2023 research by and Markets, the sector is on a trajectory of explosive growth, market size projected to soar from USD 19.4 billion to USD 67.8 2028, reflecting an impressive compound annual growth rate expansion underlines the increasing preference among learners accessible, and skill-focused educational solutions that can be integrated into their professional lives.

In response, Sommet Education has launched a new vertical business focused on digital learning to leverage the expertise and capabilities each brand within the organisation in program development and The goal is for Sommet Education to establish itself as the leading in online hospitality education. So, in line with the establishment E-Academy in 2023, a cutting-edge platform dedicated to delivering quality education, Sommet Education has further enhanced its to providing specialised and impactful learning experiences for eager to advance their expertise.

Focusing on online executive certificates, Sommet Education and intensive learning opportunities tailored to meet the unique of today’s dynamic and fast-paced business environment. With led curriculum, the certificates underscore the dedication to promoting career advancement and lifelong learning in the digital age. This program accommodates professionals seeking to attain strategic and specialise in their field, facilitating a seamless integration with their professional commitments through a part-time digital

As a result, eight online executive certificates, available through Glion Institute of Higher Education and Les Roches, have been

UNVEILS

DIGITAL EXECUTIVE

CERTIFICATES

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...curated to address a broad spectrum of themes essential for professional growth and success. These certificates cater to individuals eager to enhance their skills in areas such as general management, luxury and hospitality. They span over a concise two-week duration with a commitment of 16-24 hours per week, and are tailored to seamlessly integrate into the hectic routines of working individuals.

Employing a fully online format, learners will enjoy unrestricted access to course materials and engaging interactive sessions. Participants will engage with faculty experts, gaining real-world insights. Peer interactions enrich the learning journey, exchanging ideas and best practices across diverse backgrounds, fostering networking and professional growth. Successful completion grants certificates from the prestigious institutions of Glion and Les Roches.

With multiple intakes scheduled throughout the year, and opportunities to enrol in May, June, October and November 2024, Sommet Education aims to democratise access to highquality education while addressing the increasing demand for short-term, skill-focused learning opportunities. The launch of these online executive certificates’ emphasises the group’s commitment to supporting career development and growth, particularly in the post-Covid era where flexible learning options are paramount.

Mike Lambert, CEO of Sommet Education Digital Learning, said: “Our new suite of online executive certificates addresses the modern demand for ongoing skills enhancement, enabling individuals to navigate the digital economy with proficiency. This initiative reinforces Sommet Education’s leadership within executive online learning.”

Christophe Julliard, Chief Revenue Officer, commented: “Sommet Education’s strategic digital expansion responds to the urgent need for continuous upskilling in today’s rapidly evolving landscape. Through innovative digital technologies and pedagogical methods, we empower professionals to excel in an increasingly competitive global environment.”

The newly-launched certificates are:

Glion

• Executive Online Course in Business Trends in Luxury

• Executive Online Course in Building the New Sustainable Luxury

• Executive Online Course in Experiential Economics

• Executive Online Course in Blockchain in the Luxury and Hospitality Business

Les Roches

• Executive Online Course in Sustainable Hospitality and Tourism Development

• Executive Online Course in Hospitality Revenue and Demand Management

• Executive Online Course in Hotel Valuation and Performance

• Executive Online Course in Hospitality Financial Analysis

Executive Online Course in Hospitality Financial Analysis

EYE CATCHING

TERRACE FURNITURE

Ash Armchair shown

NEW FOR 24! TERRACE FURNITURE

EDEN FURNITURE offer a wide range of outdoor patio, terrace and poolside furniture.

For 2024 we have launched a number of new ranges which are made from gas injected resin which is glass fiber reinforced for extra strength and durability.

Chairs, Armchairs, Stools and Lounge Sets in a range of colours.

FURNITURE SAVER BUNDLES

EDEN FURNITURE are delighted to launch their new Furniture Saver Bundles where you can save up to 40% off the list prices when purchasing a complete set of furniture.

We have started with our ever popular ranges of Amanda, Daisy and Della chairs paired with stocked Topalit Tabletops in Veneto and Maracaibo and our made-to-order Solid Ash Tabletops.

Ash

Spruce

Primrose Cedar

Alder Lounge Set

EXPLORING THE IMPACTFUL

In the hotel industry and broader hospitality sector, the spirit of exceptional service relies heavily on the engagement and enthusiasm of its employees. These individuals are at the frontline of your business, with the greatest level of contact with your customers. As such, they are perhaps the most powerful influencer on customer satisfaction.

Amid pressures of high staff turnover and the constant aim to excel, creating an atmosphere where employees feel appreciated, listened to and motivated is an ongoing challenge for HR managers and team leaders. In this article, award-winning employee recognition software experts Mo delve into the fundamentals of employee engagement and offer suggestions for inspiring a team that is as passionate about their jobs as they are about their visitors.

Understanding Employee Engagement

When we speak about “employee engagement”, it goes beyond just being happy in one’s work. Our understanding of this term has grown and we are aware, now more than ever, that it describes an employee’s passion and emotional commitment to their job and company’s success. Engaged employees aren’t just committed workers, but are brand ambassadors, playing a vital role in shaping customer experiences and driving reputation.

Employee engagement and happiness are of the utmost importance in the hospitality industry, as each encounter has the potential to shape guests’ impressions. Role variety, seasonality, and direct contact with guests from varied backgrounds and with varying expectations are just a few aspects that affect engagement, and unlike other industries, a hotel’s success is intricately linked to the performance and satisfaction of its staff. Thus, their engagement is an operational priority.

The challenges of maintaining a motivated and committed workforce are magnified in the hotel industry by the sheer variety of tasks employees perform, the roundthe-clock nature of operations, and the need

ROLE OF EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION

for teamwork in delivering seamless service. What’s more, feedback from guests, both good and bad, acts as an ongoing performance evaluation.

Understanding and fostering employee engagement in this context demands a nuanced approach that recognises the unique pressures and rewards of the hospitality sector. By understanding each employee’s role in the hotel ecosystem, strategies can be formed that not only boost engagement, but also enhance overall service quality and guest satisfaction.

The Role of Leadership

The leadership of an organisation greatly influences the culture and atmosphere around employee engagement. How hotel managers think and act has a significant effect on their employees’ dedication, enthusiasm, and morale. A successful leader in the hotel industry knows that they need to be more than just a manager; they must also be someone who can motivate their team members to give their all.

First and foremost: Visibility in leadership boosts engagement. Managers that are present, accessible, and involved in day-to-day operations show their staff they are part of the team. This, in turn, breaks down any potential “us versus them” mentality, forming a sense of unity and encouraging employees to take ownership of their roles and contribute their best.

Another essential is the expression of genuine appreciation. In an industry where hard work can go unnoticed, leaders who regularly acknowledge achievements create an environment where employees feel valued and respected. The key to success is being consistent and genuine, whether it’s a more informal “thank you” or a more official “employee of the month” programme.

What’s more, leaders that delegate responsibilities and allow autonomy build a powerful sense of trust. Giving workers more agency in their job and more opportunities to make a difference not only increases morale, but also encourages participation.

Recognition and Reward

Your ultimate aim should be to create a setting where employees continually feel valued for their perseverance and commitment; this is the true essence of a recognition culture, which extends beyond the occasional doling out of praise.

Both exceptional accomplishments and consistent efforts can be recognised through well-designed recognition programmes.The objective is to make employees feel seen and valued, whether it’s through official award ceremonies or informal shout-outs during team meetings.

An effective strategy could involve instituting peer-to-peer recognition programmes. These programmes incentivise employees to celebrate each other’s successes, building mutual friendships and shared respect. Since it comes from those who understand the job well, praise from peers can be very inspiring.

Avoid the pitfall of treating staff purely with monetary bonuses or gift vouchers, which can feel impersonal and disingenuous to some. Opportunities for personal and professional growth, such as training sessions, workshops, or promotions, can be equally, if not more rewarding. These opportunities signal to employees that their personal development and career progression are valued by the organisation.

At its core, a culture of recognition and reward bolters employee engagement by reinforcing positive behaviours and attitudes. When employees feel appreciated, they are more likely to go above and beyond in their roles. This will have a knock-on effect on the workplace that enhances the overall guest experience and drives reputation for excellence in an upward fashion.

Encouraging Open Communication and Feedback

It should go without saying that open communication and regular feedback are key to maintaining a vibrant and engaged workforce, helping to identify areas for improvement while also building trust and transparency.

Employees should feel encouraged to voice their ideas, concerns, and suggestions without fear of retribution. Regular team meetings, one-on-one sessions with managers, or digital platforms designed for anonymous feedback can all work to create a safe space where employees feel comfortable sharing their thoughts.

Feedback, both positive and negative, is a core component of this communication process. Positive feedback acknowledges and reinforces behaviours and achievements that contribute to the hotel’s success, while constructive criticism offers insight into how employees can grow and improve. When handled successfully, the result is a positive culture of continuous learning and development.

Finally, involving employees in decision-making processes can help to enhance their sense of ownership and commitment to the hotel’s goals. When employees see their suggestions being taken into account, it reinforces their importance to the organisation and motivates them to contribute their best.

Promoting Work-Life Balance and Wellness

Work-life balance and wellness are in the spotlight now more than ever –and rightly so. Success in these areas is essential for sustaining employee engagement and productivity, and recognising the importance of employees’ health and well-being not only reflects a hotel’s commitment to its staff but also enhances its service quality and customer satisfaction.

Initiatives supporting work-life balance can vary, from flexible scheduling that accommodates personal commitments to providing time off for rest and recuperation. Such measures acknowledge the demands placed on hotel staff and offer flexibility to manage their work and personal lives effectively.

Continue reading the full article here >

THE TASTE OF VICTORY How to Identify the Best

How do you find the best beers in the world and what makes an international beer competition truly global? Lotte Peplow, Brewers Association American Craft Beer Ambassador for Europe looks at the latest World Beer Cup®.

With a proliferation of international beer competitions around the globe today all purporting to find the best beers in the world how do you know which are truly the best and how do you identify what beers to stock?

The World Beer Cup, organised by the Brewers Association, the not-for-profit trade association representing small and independent American craft breweries which took place in April in Las Vegas, is one such competition that stands apart as a genuinely global contest. It is the biggest and therefore most prestigious beer competition in the world and is often referred to as ‘the Olympics of Beer’. Its goal is to identify up to three world class beers that best represent each beer style category according to the Brewers Association style guidelines.

Here are the facts….

• The World Beer Cup is the biggest and therefore the most competitive beer competition in the world attracting 9,300 entries from 2,060 breweries across 50 countries, 25% of which were international breweries in the 2024 iteration.

• There were 280 judges of whom 103 were from overseas spanning 37 countries.

• Awards were judged in 110 categories, covering 172 beer styles (including all sub-categories) with the total number of possible awards at 330.

• Judging took place over a period of seven days, four in the first phase in Colorado and three in the second phase in Las Vegas, with winners announced on the final night of the Craft Brewers Conference and Brew Expo America®.

• The World Beer Cup started in 1996 and took place biannually until 2022 when it became annualised.

In 2024, the most entered styles were:

• Juicy/Hazy India Pale Ale with 326 entries

• West-Coast Style India Pale Ale with 281 entries

• German-Style Pilsner with 221 entries

• American-Style India Pale Ale with 213 entries

• Wood & Barrel-Aged Strong Stout with 198 entries

“Each award represents not only exceptional quality but also innovation and creativity, driving the global craft beer industry forward,” said Chris Williams, World Beer Cup competition director. “This year’s winners exemplify the spirit of craftsmanship and ingenuity and showcase the diverse flavours and techniques that make beer an art form. Congratulations to this year’s winners for their outstanding achievements in brewing.”

For any brewery winning a medal at World Beer Cup is huge but for international entries from little known corners of the brewing world it is gargantuan. They may be competing with internationally or regionally focused styles and win success in unexpected categories. For example, in 2024 a brewery from Seoul, Korea won gold in the speciality saison category, a Brazilian brewery won gold in contemporary gose and old/ strong ale styles and Australia won in Gluten-Free beer.

Fortunately many US winning craft breweries export overseas so look out for medal-winning American craft beers in your market.

The UK remains an important export market for American craft beer with 7.3% of all exports, the second largest individual market behind Canada. In the UK, American craft beer is available from on-line retailers such as Athletic Brewing, Sierra Nevada shop, or selected national wholesalers.

Chefs and restauranteurs are invited to make use of the free resources available on www.brewersassociation.org or www.craftbeer.com

VICTORY Best Beers in the World

The Mermaid Garden Opens in Cowes, Isle of Wight for Summer 2024

“

We are really excited to partner with The Garden Cowes for the first time, to provide an unrivalled waterside venue for Islanders and visitors to Cowes from across the Solent. We will be serving our award winning Mermaid collection mixed in delicious cocktails and refreshing G&T's and look forward to seeing friends old and new

Xavier Baker, Co-Founder of the Isle of Wight Distillery

The Isle of Wight Distillery, producers of Mermaid Gin, Mermaid Salt Vodka and Mermaid Spiced Rum are delighted to announce their summer collaboration with The Garden Cowes to provide a new waterside venue for 2024 - The Mermaid Garden.

Opening in May, The Mermaid Garden has unrivalled views across the Solent and is ideally located in front of the Island Sailing Club, within the heart of the nautical sailing town of Cowes. Visitors will be able to enjoy live music, great food, Mermaid cocktails and Mermaid Gin & Tonics at the Isle of Wight’s most exciting new summer venue.

In addition, partnering with The Mermaid Garden, EML Charters Solent are offering an exclusive experience with journeys across the Solent via luxury boat charters and transfers, offering a stylish arrival into Cowes.

Xavier Baker, Co-Founder of the Isle of Wight Distillery says about The Mermaid Garden: “We are really excited to partner with The Garden Cowes for the first time, to provide an unrivalled waterside venue for Islanders and visitors to Cowes from across the Solent. We will be

serving our award-winning Mermaid collection mixed in delicious cocktails and refreshing G&T’s and look forward to seeing friends old and new.”

Jack Anslem and Miriam Simpson of The Garden Cowes, say: “The Isle of Wight Distillery is the perfect partner for our waterfront Summer Garden and we can’t wait to serve their delicious Island spirits to customers coming for drinks or a meal at The Mermaid Garden this summer.”

The Mermaid Garden opens officially with an exclusive launch party on 1st May and will be welcoming customers from 2nd May. The Mermaid Garden is located at 70 High St, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7RE.

Reservations: 01983 242400 and www.thegardencowes.com

About The Isle of Wight Distillery

Rooted in the natural landscape, The Isle of Wight Distillery is the island’s first and only distillery. The founders Xavier and Conrad and the small team distill spirits shaped by the stunning surroundings and the unique character of the island. Doing things differently, the Isle of Wight Distillery minimises waste, using ethically sourced and mainly local ingredients to craft a range of smooth, complex Mermaid spirits. The Mermaid range includes Mermaid Gin, Mermaid Pink Gin, Mermaid Zest Gin, Mermaid Spiced Rum and Mermaid Salt Vodka.

The Isle of Wight Distillery was awarded B Corp Status in November 2022. One of the key efforts recognised as part of their B Corp accreditation is the dedication of the distillery to reduce its impact on the environment by minimising waste and preserving resources. The Isle of Wight Distillery has engaged in a number of local and global initiatives that reinforce its commitment to sustainability including seagrass restoration working with the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust and tackling plastic pollution and protecting the UK’s coastline in partnership with Surfers Against Sewage.

Mermaid Gin RRP from £41 for 70cl. ABV 42% Available from: John Lewis, Master of Malt, The Whisky Exchange, Harvey Nichols, Fenwick, Tesco, M&S, Waitrose, Amazon and Isle of Wight Distillery

Mermaid Pink Gin RRP from £41 for 70cl. ABV: 38%. Available from John Lewis, Master of Malt, The Whisky Exchange, Harvey Nichols, Fenwick, Tesco, M&S, Waitrose, Amazon and Isle of Wight Distillery

Mermaid Zest Gin RRP from £41 for 70cl. ABV 40%. Available from John Lewis, Waitrose, Master of Malt, The Whisky Exchange and Isle of Wight Distillery

Mermaid Salt Vodka RRP from £41 for 70cl. ABV: 40%. Available from John Lewis, Harvey Nichols, Amazon, Master of Malt, The Whisky Exchange and Isle of Wight Distillery

Mermaid Spiced Rum RRP from £41 for 70cl. ABV 40%. Available from John Lewis, Master of Malt and Isle of Wight Distillery

About Mermaid Gin

Mermaid Gin is a small batch, beach to bottle London Dry Gin with a hint of sea air. Hand-crafted on the Isle of Wight, Mermaid Gin uses ten locally foraged and sustainably sourced botanicals which are multi-distilled to deliver a smooth, clean and fresh finish. Mermaid Gin botanicals include organic lemon zest, underpinned by peppery spicy notes of grains of paradise, with a hint of the sea from the locally foraged, fragrant rock samphire.

Beauty, we appreciate, is in the eye of the beholder.

Craftsmanship, we sense, is in the hand of the maker.

British pedigree in every detail – even to the choice of colour nish and trim. The fusion of style, technology &

Perfection, we experience, is in the Fracino bespoke studio.