Hospitality – News Anyway https://www.newsanyway.com The latest news and views from around the world Fri, 31 Oct 2025 18:45:06 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 https://www.newsanyway.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/cropped-favicon-32x32.png Hospitality – News Anyway https://www.newsanyway.com 32 32 EEA Opens Consultation on Global Hotel Sustainability Standards https://www.newsanyway.com/2025/10/31/eea-develops-esg-standards/ Fri, 31 Oct 2025 18:45:06 +0000 https://www.newsanyway.com/?p=141802 The hospitality sector is taking a major step toward transparency and accountability with the launch of a global consultation on sustainability accounting standards. The initiative is spearheaded by the Energy & Environment Alliance (EEA), a coalition representing over 50,000 hotels and £360 billion in hospitality and real estate assets.

In partnership with King’s Business School, the EEA Taskforce on Hotels & Lodging Sustainability Accounting Standards is developing uniform, audit-ready metrics that hotels and lodging operators can adopt. The goal is to provide investors, lenders, and asset managers with reliable, comparable data to assess environmental impact, operational performance, and long-term value.

This effort marks the first attempt to create financially material sustainability standards tailored to the hotel industry, aiming to drive better decision-making and responsible investment across the global hospitality sector.

“Sustainability performance now directly affects how assets are financed, insured and valued,” said Ufi Ibrahim, Founder and Chief Executive of the EEA. “The question for our industry is no longer whether we disclose, but how we do so in a way that is commercially intelligent, credible and comparable across markets. This consultation is shaping the way the future is being built.”

The new financial infrastructure for hospitality

The proposed standards are grounded in IFRS S1 and S2 – the new global baseline for sustainability accounting, adopted by, or under consideration in, more than 30 major economies, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, the EU, India, Japan, Singapore, South Africa and the UK.

These frameworks require companies to disclose sustainability-related information with the same rigour and assurance as financial data, covering emissions, resilience, transition plans and other factors that materially influence cash flows, cost of capital and long-term value.

For the hospitality sector, one of the world’s most capital-intensive and climate-exposed asset classes, this shift is decisive. Transparent, comparable data is increasingly influencing how projects are financed, how insurance is priced and how investors assess risk.

Professor Marc Lepere, Head of ESG and Sustainability at King’s Business School, added: “Our research shows that the absence of clear, sector-specific metrics is leaving investors unable to price sustainability risk with confidence. The proposed standards translate global reporting rules into a financial language that the capital markets understand, connecting sustainability performance directly to enterprise value.”

Laura Lee Blake, President & CEO, Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) commented: “The hospitality industry across the United States stands at a pivotal juncture, where investor expectations and guest demands are changing faster than ever. By engaging in this global consultation with the EEA Taskforce, we are helping ensure hotel owners can access capital, meet transparency demands, and compete on a truly global footing. I’m proud to support this initiative, which empowers our members to future-proof their assets and deliver better outcomes for guests and investors alike.”

“For all segments of the hotel industry, sustainability has become a central business consideration. Our members are implementing efforts to reduce their carbon footprint, saving millions of gallons of water annually, and keeping millions of pounds of plastics and food waste out of landfills each year,” said Rosanna Maietta, President & CEO of the American Hotel & Lodging Association. “We’re pleased to partner with EEA on this new initiative. The EEA Task Force’s consultation is a significant milestone for our industry. It provides us with the opportunity to help shape the benchmark by which sustainability will be measured, and to ensure that reporting frameworks reflect the realities of global hospitality operations.”

Camilla Barretto, CEO, Brazilian Luxury Travel Association (BLTA), concluded: “Brazil’s hospitality and travel sector is intrinsically linked to our natural and cultural wealth—assets that are both precious and fragile. By participating in this global consultation, our industry is making sure that emerging markets such as ours have a seat at the table in setting the standards that will guide sustainable investment and growth for decades to come. I believe this effort will help ensure that the voice of Latin America is heard in the evolving agenda of global hospitality sustainability and reporting.”

A call to drive the standards that will shape the market

The consultation invites hotel investors, owners, asset managers, operators, lenders, developers and insurers worldwide to provide feedback on the proposed framework. Participants will help refine the metrics and disclosures that will form the basis of the final standards to be submitted to the International Financial Reporting Standards Foundation (IFRS) in 2026.

Why participate?
The EEA, AAHOA, AH&LA and BLTA encourage all stakeholders in the hospitality sector to participate because these standards will influence how their business and their capital are assessed. Engaging in the consultation allows them to:

  • Ensure the standards are practical, credible and aligned with commercial reality
  • Influence how sustainability affects financing terms, valuations and insurance
  • Demonstrate leadership in shaping the industry’s transition to climate-ready, audit-grade, investor-ready reporting.

Next steps

The consultation remains open until 28 February 2026.

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OpenTable Introduces Unified Marketplace for Private and Group Dining in the UK https://www.newsanyway.com/2025/09/23/opentable-introduces-unified-marketplace-for-private-and-group-dining-in-the-uk/ Tue, 23 Sep 2025 16:05:47 +0000 https://www.newsanyway.com/?p=141379
  • UK diners spend an average of 15.6 hours searching for and securing the ideal private or group dining venue.
  • Almost half of diners in the UK have abandoned private or group dining plans due to booking difficulties.
  • 76% of UK diners would arrange more private or group meals if the booking process were simpler.
  • New research commissioned by OpenTable, the global leader in restaurant technology, has highlighted the obstacles UK diners encounter when arranging private and group dining. In response, OpenTable has launched its new all-in-one marketplace designed specifically for these occasions. The platform brings together what were once fragmented searches, phone calls, and email exchanges into one seamless hub—streamlining the experience for diners and enabling restaurants to boost revenue more efficiently.

    On average, hosts spend 15 hours and 36 minutes trying to identify and book the right venue for a group or private meal. The process is far from straightforward, with 59% of UK diners admitting that finding suitable options is a real challenge, and millennials struggling the most (64%). Almost half (49%) confess to abandoning plans entirely when faced with unclear or complex booking information.

    Despite these challenges, appetite for such experiences remains strong. In fact, 76% of Brits say they would arrange more gatherings if the booking process were easier, while 72% would be more likely to go ahead if less research was required beforehand.

    Offering an intuitive city discovery page, diners can browse and compare private dining rooms, semi-private spaces, and large group tables, along with transparent pricing, menus, ambiance details, capacity and imagery. In a first for reservation platforms, a growing selection of venues within the marketplace will offer instant booking, enabling diners to view real-time availability and secure their booking in seconds. For restaurants, the marketplace will generate incremental large booking leads through an easy set up, helping to generate more revenue.

    “We’re alleviating the challenges of private and group dining for both diners and restaurants. Right now, diners spend hours trying to get it right, and nearly half give up on the booking altogether,” said Sasha Shaker, Senior Director of UK & Ireland at OpenTable. “Our new marketplace cuts out that hassle so diners can seamlessly discover and secure a spot and restaurants can tap into new growth. We’re bringing private and group dining into the spotlight, presenting a massive opportunity for the industry, and we’re ready to support them in seizing it.”

    OpenTable’s consumer research underscores the demand behind the launch. Birthdays, family gatherings, and corporate events – including company celebrations, client meetings and team bonding – were identified as the most common drivers of private dining reservations. 40% of respondents said they would rather host a group dinner party at a private event space in a restaurant than at home, and 66% reported they are willing to spend more per person on a private or group dining venue than a la carte at a restaurant. Together, these findings point to a shift in how consumers want to celebrate and gather, with private dining becoming increasingly mainstream.

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    How to handle mergers in your hotel business https://www.newsanyway.com/2025/09/22/how-to-handle-mergers-in-your-hotel-business/ Mon, 22 Sep 2025 06:41:06 +0000 https://www.newsanyway.com/?p=141310 Merging hotel businesses can be a great idea, but it does bring some additional challenges. Whether you’re acquiring another hotel or merging with an existing brand, your merger needs to be approached with careful planning and consideration.

    If you’re trying to navigate your hotel merger, keep reading our short guide.

    Navigating UK merger control and regulatory requirements

    One of the first things you should be aware of is that mergers in the UK hospitality sector may be subject to the new Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 (DMCCA). Under these new regulations, certain mergers are subject to mandatory notification to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA).

    While you can always submit for review voluntarily, you might want to consult with specialist hospitality lawyers to see if it’s needed or not. Failing to comply with merger control rules can result in significant penalties or fines, so it’s best to seek advice as soon as possible.

    Operational, financial, and ESG considerations

    Due diligence is critical when managing your hotel merger, especially with regard to your operational, financial, and ESG departments. Before finalising the merger, assess whether there are any outstanding maintenance or health & safety issues, as these could affect guest experience and the overall valuation of the business.

    You also want to ensure that the financial aspects have been thoroughly reviewed, as assets, liabilities, and revenue streams will play a core part in ensuring long-term financial stability. We also suggest that you conduct site inspections and review brand alignment, since this can reveal opportunities for improvement.

    Cultural integration and stakeholder communications

    Perhaps one of the most challenging aspects of any merger is the integration of culture. Every hotel operates differently, and to ensure that services align across sites, there may need to be some significant changes.

    To ensure as seamless a transition as possible, you can set up a ‘joint task force’. This team would include members from both sites, and by facilitating the exchange of information and operational techniques, should allow for a smooth guest experience.

    Post-merger structure, management agreements, and legal considerations

    After the merger, it may be essential to review and renegotiate existing hotel management agreements, including lease terms, franchise contracts, and staff contracts, to reflect the new ownership structure.

    Your legal considerations should not be overlooked, as contracts will likely need to be adjusted to align with the new operational goals. By thoroughly reviewing the legal structure, you can ensure your newly merged hotel entity operates efficiently.

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    Mykonos’ Mileo Luxury Boutique Hotel Unites Sustainability with Luxury https://www.newsanyway.com/2025/09/19/mykonos-mileo-luxury-boutique-hotel-unites-sustainability-with-luxury/ Fri, 19 Sep 2025 17:54:07 +0000 https://www.newsanyway.com/?p=141303 Mileo Luxury Boutique Hotel has redefined the luxury offering on Mykonos, creating a model where sustainability strengthens, rather than diminishes, the guest experience.

    Overlooking Kalo Livadi beach, the boutique property’s 25 suites provide visitors with a sanctuary that reflects both refined comfort and environmental consciousness.

    By integrating eco-principles into every aspect of its operations, the hotel has achieved remarkable results, reflected in two years of glowing guest satisfaction scores.

    “We haven’t simply built a hotel; we’ve created a living space that elevates our guests’ environmental awareness whilst offering them a meaningful and memorable escape,” reflects Yaşam Ayavefe, founder of Mileo Luxury Boutique Hotel.

    Design Respects Cycladic Heritage

    Mileo’s architectural philosophy honours traditional Cycladic design through contemporary eco-friendly practices. Five independent buildings use natural stone and timber materials – an environmentally conscious approach that enhances rather than limits luxury hospitality.

    The property incorporates energy-efficient solutions, natural ventilation systems, and innovative water management practices. These systems reduce carbon footprint by 40% compared to conventional hotels of similar size, according to independent environmental assessments.

    “Success Means Collective Prosperity” – Yaşam Ayavefe

    Mileo functions as more than accommodation – it catalyses local economic development. The hotel sources 85% of wines, cheeses, and artisanal food products from local producers, preserving regional culture and supporting the island’s economy.

    “Mileo’s success story isn’t about individual growth, it’s about collective prosperity,” notes Yasam Ayavefe. “Our achievements are measured not only by guest satisfaction but by the positive impact we create for local communities and the environment.”

    Local partnerships have enabled three cheese producers to expand operations by an average of 30%, and two wineries have developed exclusive blends specifically for the property.

    Exceptional guest experiences in exclusive suites

    Each suite includes sea-view balconies, private pools or jacuzzis, and floor-to-ceiling windows that maximise natural light. High-speed Wi-Fi and smart controls integrate discreetly to preserve tranquil atmosphere. Minibars feature curated Greek wines and local delicacies.

    The infinity pool offers panoramic views across the Aegean Sea. Spa therapies and aromatherapy treatments can be delivered directly to guest suites for complete privacy and convenience.

    All 25 suites maintain occupancy rates of 89% during peak season (June-September), with 67% of bookings from repeat guests or referrals.

    Culinary excellence celebrating local flavours

    Mileo’s dining programme showcases the finest Mediterranean cuisine with champagne breakfast presentations featuring fresh bakery items and artisanal cheeses. Evening dining experiences include candlelit seafood dinners and comprehensive vegan menus, all emphasising locally-sourced ingredients and traditional Greek culinary techniques.

    Outstanding guest satisfaction scores

    Mileo Luxury Boutique Hotel achieved a 9.9-point rating on Booking.com for two consecutive years, ranking among Mykonos’s most recommended properties. Guest reviews consistently praise design excellence, service standards, atmosphere, and cleanliness.

    Guest satisfaction surveys show 94% would recommend the property to friends and family, with comfort levels, service quality, and atmosphere receiving the highest scores.

    We measure success not merely through financial metrics, but through our guests’ satisfaction, our employees’ wellbeing, local community development, and environmental conservation,” concludes Ayavefe. “Mileo represents the realisation of these values in a living, breathing hospitality environment.”

    The hotel’s responsible tourism model shows how luxury hospitality can contribute positively to local communities and deliver exceptional guest experiences that meet sophisticated international travellers’ expectations.

    About Mileo Luxury Boutique Hotel

    Established in 2023, Mileo Luxury Boutique Hotel operates as a next-generation hospitality property combining environmental principles with luxury accommodation standards. Based in Mykonos, Greece, the hotel focuses on supporting local economic development, enhancing energy efficiency, and delivering distinctive relaxation experiences for discerning guests.

    Website: www.mileomykonos.com

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    Different Jobs You May Enjoy In The Hospitality Industry https://www.newsanyway.com/2025/08/27/different-jobs-you-may-enjoy-in-the-hospitality-industry/ Wed, 27 Aug 2025 17:51:06 +0000 https://www.newsanyway.com/?p=141002 If you are the type of person who loves socialising and meeting new people, the hospitality industry could be the perfect sector for you to work in. Hospitality encompasses various businesses, including:

    ● Accommodation: Hotels, Motels, Resorts
    ● Food & Beverage: Restaurants, Bars, Cafes
    ● Leisure & Entertainment: Theme Parks, Cruise Ships, Event Planning

    There are other sectors as well, such as tourism and numerous customer service and relationship companies spread throughout the UK. If you are looking for a change of career and want to put your people skills to work, there are many roles in the hospitality sector that you are suitable for that could give you the job of your dreams. Below are a few options to help you get started and explore the various roles available in the hospitality industry.

    Working In Pubs & Clubs

    Working in a pub might be the ideal work environment for you, as it is busy and changes daily, with plenty of socialising. When you search pub company jobs, you will see many roles available, including front of house and ones working behind the scenes in supply chain or management. There are full and part-time jobs available, with something to suit most people and a wide and varied selection of roles. If you love music, consider working in a club that features DJs or live music. You could find your ideal role where it no longer feels hard to get up and go to work every day.

    Working In Hotels

    Another excellent option in the hospitality sector is working in a hotel, which offers a variety of roles, including those behind the bar. There are many front-of-house positions to consider, as well as numerous roles behind the scenes, including administration, staff management, and supply and logistics. New guests are coming every day, so no two days are the same, and you get to help ensure they feel welcome and enjoy their stay while they are there. However, as hotels operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, you can work shifts depending on your role, and there may be unsociable hours you need to work. However, seeing lots of happy guests leave who thoroughly enjoyed their stay makes it a rewarding and satisfying role.

    Event Planning

    Event Planning also falls under the hospitality umbrella, and it can be a highly varied career that is both rewarding and lots of fun. The events can be anything from weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, retirements, corporate Christmas parties, or a marketing event. The only limitations are the venue you work for and the space available, as most locations are not suitable for every type of event. You will need to organise everything, from decorations and seating arrangements to entertainment and menu, so there is a lot to do. However, the feeling you get after planning a successful event where everyone has a great time is second to none, so it makes the hard work worthwhile.

    Working In Travel

    If you love to travel and help people have a fantastic time when they go away, working in the travel industry is another option to consider, which falls under the hospitality sector. Whether you want to go abroad and become a travel rep, working onsite to help guests enjoy the duration of their stay, or working as a travel agent and helping book the itinerary for the trip of their dreams, there are plenty of options available. Working as a tour representative can be long hours and stressful when something goes wrong, but the positive feedback you receive from guests makes it a highly rewarding job in the hospitality sector.

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    Speakspots Unveils AI Agent to Automate Hotel Guest Communication https://www.newsanyway.com/2025/06/13/speakspots-com-launches-ai-concierge/ Fri, 13 Jun 2025 15:20:29 +0000 https://www.newsanyway.com/?p=140253 Travel tech innovator Speakspots.com has launched a white-label AI agent for hotels, revolutionizing guest communication and unlocking new revenue streams. Combining LLMs, real-time personalization, and WhatsApp integration, the platform offers hotels—especially rural properties—an intelligent, scalable B2B solution. Features include AI-powered restaurant/activity booking via phone, helping overcome language barriers and roaming charges. Following a successful pilot at 5-star ARTIEM Asturias, the tool is now expanding to ARTIEM Carlos in Menorca.

    “In rural areas and secondary cities, hotels are still very much seen as the entry-point to a destination – guests look to them for advice and guidance about what to see and do during their stay,” said Andres Martinez Artal, CEO and founder of Speakspots.com. “We’re giving hoteliers the tools they need to seamlessly deliver a 5-star guest experience both in and around the hotel, all while increasing their revenue per guest and championing local businesses and SMEs.”

    How It Works

    Speakspots.com’s AI agents integrate both internal hotel content (website, apps, documents) and external data (local partner sites, hotel staff knowledge) to provide guests with personalised and curated recommendations—ranging from on-site services to off-property experiences like restaurants and cultural attractions. Guests do not need to install any app–instead the solution works via WhatsApp to reach guests directly, with voice assistant integration planned for the near future. Similarly, the set-up is easy for the hotel, requiring no PMS or CRM integration to get going.

    Speakspots.com’s solution also includes a ‘robot making calls’, or an AI-powered reservation agent. Guests can ask the AI agent to make a restaurant or activity booking on their behalf and the AI will make the call, speaking to business owners in their local language, to secure a table reservation, tour or activity booking. In rural areas where many SMEs (small, medium enterprises) have limited digital presence or only speak their own language, this solution helps to overcome two key challenges: language barriers and roaming fees for making calls.

    “There’s a paradox in travel right now; digital native travellers want authentic, local experiences, but the small businesses in destinations who are most able to offer that authenticity can’t keep up with fast-moving advances in technology and AI”, explains Andres Martinez Artal, founder and CEO of Speakspots.com. “What we need is a technological bridge, that means SMEs can benefit from GenAI for next to nothing and with very little effort, and digital travellers can find what they’re looking for via their everyday technology. We are building that bridge.”

    Results That Matter

    Unlike traditional guest messaging tools or PMS/CRM plugins, Speakspots.com’s white label solution focuses on personalization to both improve the guest experience and drive incremental revenue. The pilot programme at ARTIEM Asturias saw measurable increases in guest spending and satisfaction in the first two months—with just 20% of the additional sales generated covering the cost of running the platform.

    “We’re not just offering another SaaS solution. We’re offering a smart, revenue-generating concierge that guests access through the technology theyr’e already using every day,” said Martinez Artal. “The solution drives direct, trackable revenue uplift. And it enhances guest loyalty in a way big tech cannot.”

    Designed for a Sector That Needs It

    Speakspots is targeting high-end hotels, predominantly in rural destinations—often overlooked by mainstream platforms yet deeply dependent on strong guest experience and local integration.

    “We’re starting with a niche where the value is obvious and immediate, turning the hotel into the engine of the local community and connecting travellers with the authentic experiences they want, all while dispersing valuable tourism revenue”, continues Martinez Artal. “Down the line, we can see this solution rolling out to other SMEs in hospitality and supporting social sustainability in rural and secondary travel destinations.”

    The platform is scalable across regions, languages, and property sizes, but initial growth is focused on Spain and Western Europe. The launch follows Speakspots.com’s rapid B2C growth across Europe, where its traveller itinerary generator continues to grow month-on-month in user numbers and itinerary creation volume.

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    The Beaumont Appoints Lisa Goodwin-Allen to Lead Culinary Vision https://www.newsanyway.com/the-beaumont-welcomes-lisa-goodwin-allen/ Thu, 15 May 2025 12:43:32 +0000 https://www.newsanyway.com/?p=139964 The Beaumont Mayfair has appointed acclaimed chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen as its new Culinary Director. Lisa will collaborate closely with CEO Stuart Procter and Executive Chef Brendan Fyldes to shape the food offering throughout the luxury Mayfair hotel, including at ROSI—its forthcoming flagship restaurant set to open this autumn.

    This appointment marks a reunion for the Lancashire-born trio, whose careers have intersected over the years at prestigious establishments such as Northcote and The Stafford London. Their shared roots and combined expertise are expected to bring a distinctive and elevated culinary experience to The Beaumont.

    Stuart Procter, CEO of The Beaumont Mayfair, commented:

    “We are thrilled to have Lisa joining us at The Beaumont. She is an exceptional chef and having known and worked with her for many years, I have no doubt that her passion and expertise will elevate our food offering to even higher standards. Lisa is joining the team at a very exciting time. Working alongside Brendan Fyldes, she will play an integral role in the launch of our new restaurant, as well as other exciting projects we have coming up.”

    Lisa is one of the most innovative and successful chefs in the UK today, having held a Michelin Star at Northcote in Lancashire for the past 23 years, and run the world-renowned Northcote: Obsession Food Festival. She is known for developing creative dishes where the flavours of seasonal British ingredients shine through. Alongside this dedication to her craft, Lisa is a true champion of the hospitality industry. She works tirelessly to support organisations such as Hospitality Action, and inspires the next generation of chefs through mentoring, training and in her role as Chair of Judges for Craft Guild of Chefs Young National Chef of the Year. Lisa’s impressive career has also landed her regular TV appearances, such as James Martin’s Saturday Morning and judging on renowned programmes including MasterChef and Great British Menu.

    On joining The Beaumont Mayfair, Lisa Goodwin-Allen commented:

    “I am delighted to be joining the team at The Beaumont Mayfair and to be working with Stuart again in this next chapter of my career. With the launch of ROSI in the autumn and other exciting projects in the pipeline, I look forward to working with Brendan and the kitchen brigade to create menus that embrace seasonality and showcase the very best British ingredients, as well as collaborating on the overall F&B direction of the hotel. Together I know we will deliver exceptional dining experiences to our guests.”

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    Reuben Brothers set to finish Palm Beach hotel development in 2025 https://www.newsanyway.com/2025/04/10/reuben-brothers-set-to-finish-palm-beach-hotel-development-in-2025/ Thu, 10 Apr 2025 10:27:14 +0000 https://www.newsanyway.com/?p=139688 Individuals planning a deluxe trip to Balm Beach may want to put their plans on hold if they’re hoping to include a stay in Oetker Collection’s first US hotel – The Vineta Hotel.

    In partnership with the owners, Reuben Brothers, the hotel is currently undergoing extensive construction work to replace the former Chesterfield Hotel in Palm Beach, previously operated by Red Carnation Hotels.

    Prior to construction delays, Reuben Brothers hoped to launch the redesigned hotel late in 2024, but had to push back their plans for an early 2025 opening. 

    According to Palm Beach Daily News and the relevant documents, the original building permit for property works was granted in May 2023 by the town council and a further six-month extension was issued in August 2024.

    Speaking to Palm Beach Daily News, Wayne Bergman, the town’s planning, zoning and building director, explained that this delay was due to Mouw Associates Inc, the project’s Delray Beach-based general contractor, requiring more time to complete the construction work.

    As per the Oetker Collection website, the Vineta Hotel in Palm Beach is still “slated for a 2025 opening”, but this source suggests the public will have to wait just a little while longer to see the redesigned Vineta Hotel, with its early 2025 debut having been delayed well into 2025.

    This follows a predicted second extension request by Melisa Perez, project manager for Mouw Associates, at the council’s February development review meeting. If approved by the council, the extension would permit works until September, 2025. 

    After construction work has finished, the hotel will boast four storeys, 41 rooms, an intimate courtyard for alfresco dining, and feature interiors designed by Tino Zervudachi – an internationally acclaimed decorator well-known for his eclectic aesthetic.

    As published on the Oetker Collection site, Timo Gruenert, the company’s CEO, added:

     “This is a monumental moment in the brand’s history as we announce our first Masterpiece Hotel in the United States.

    “Many of our existing guests have long visited or are residents of Palm Beach, and we therefore look forward to extending Oetker Collection’s unique hospitality ethos based on our values of family spirit, elegance and genuine kindness, to this wonderful town with The Vineta Hotel.”

    Spearheaded by the firm’s principal, Jamie Reuben, Reuben Brothers acquired the site in 2022 for $42m. Regarding the project, Jamie Reuben said in a statement:

    “We are incredibly excited to be working with Oetker Collection on The Vineta Hotel in Palm Beach – a place very close to my and my family’s heart.

    “With Oetker Collection’s renowned and refined approach to luxury hospitality, I am confident that the hotel will become a staple in Palm Beach for generations to come.”

    As reported by Observer, Reuben Brothers’ Palm Beach hotel development is just one part of Jamie Reuben’s ambitious luxury hospitality plans for the company that span across the globe.

    Since joining the family real estate investment and development firm, Jamie has worked on a wide range of products including The Twenty Two hotel on Grosvenor Square and the Piccadilly Estate in Mayfair, London, alongside the New York private members’ club, Maxime’s, and the W South Beach hotel in Miami, Florida.

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    Jesmond Dene House Expanded into the Lake District as The Kronen Collection Acquired Historic Borrowdale Gates Hotel https://www.newsanyway.com/2025/02/06/jesmond-dene-house-owners-acquire-lake-district-hotel/ Thu, 06 Feb 2025 18:50:26 +0000 https://www.newsanyway.com/?p=139108 The owners of Jesmond Dene House, part of the esteemed Kronen Collection, announced the acquisition of Borrowdale Gates Hotel, a historic country retreat in the heart of the Lake District. This acquisition strengthened The Kronen Collection’s position as a growing boutique hotel group, adding to its expanding portfolio, which includes Jesmond Dene House in Newcastle, The Crown Hotel in Wetheral, and The Kilbirnie in Newquay.

    Nestled at the gateway to the picturesque Borrowdale Valley, Borrowdale Gates Hotel had long been cherished for its timeless charm and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding fells. Originally established as a country retreat, the hotel became known for its warm hospitality, fine dining, and tranquil atmosphere—qualities that aligned seamlessly with The Kronen Collection’s ethos of “boutique luxury and warmth with personal service.”

    This news marks an exciting development for the North of England-based owners of Jesmond Dene House, who have seen their flagship hotel in Newcastle become an award-winning destination for discerning guests from across the UK. Adding Borrowdale Gates to The Kronen Collection aims to offer travellers the opportunity to enjoy an authentic Lake District experience, complemented by the same exceptional service found at Jesmond Dene House and other properties within the group.

    “We’ve always been passionate about expanding our portfolio with unique properties that offer both charm and exceptional location,” says a spokesman from The Kronen Collection. “Borrowdale Gates is an outstanding addition due to its rich history, stunning location in the Lake District, and the potential to provide guests with a truly authentic experience in one of the UK’s most picturesque regions.”

    In keeping with The Kronen Collection’s commitment to individuality, Borrowdale Gates will retain its distinct character, ensuring that the local heritage and welcoming atmosphere remain at the core of guests’ experiences.

    “We remain dedicated to building on the success of Borrowdale Gates, which has been shaped by the expertise and commitment of its custodians,” confirms a Spokesman. “As we introduce new initiatives, there will be opportunities for growth and development, further strengthening our reputation for excellence.”

    Borrowdale Gates exemplifies The Kronen Collection’s hallmark blend of personal service, luxurious comfort, and a setting that celebrates the local environment—mirroring the ethos at Jesmond Dene House in Newcastle, The Crown Hotel, and The Kilbirnie.

    “Borrowdale Gates encapsulates everything we stand for at The Kronen Collection,” says Christina Stephenson, Group Sales & Marketing Manager. “It’s a charming, intimate hotel set against one of the UK’s most stunning landscapes. Our ethos revolves around offering guests a truly bespoke experience, and Borrowdale Gates’ warm, homely atmosphere allows us to deliver that beautifully.”

    The Kronen Collection looks forward to welcoming travellers to Borrowdale Gates under its ownership. Plans are already underway to introduce new experiences highlighting the area’s exceptional natural beauty, cementing Borrowdale Gates as a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Lake District.

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    The Social Hub Expands in Florence With Stunning New Hybrid Hospitality Space https://www.newsanyway.com/2025/02/04/the-social-hub-opens-e150m-florence-property/ Tue, 04 Feb 2025 09:57:09 +0000 https://www.newsanyway.com/?p=139037 The Social Hub opened its latest €150 million property in Florence on Saturday, February 1. The new location, The Social Hub Belfiore, featured the city’s largest rooftop garden and an Olympic-length swimming pool, offering a unique experience for both business and leisure travelers.

    Located in the San Jacopino district near Florence’s historic center, the 80,000 m² property became The Social Hub’s second location in the city, following its Lavagnini property. This expansion underscored the company’s long-term commitment to Italy and its role in Florence’s urban and economic development.

    The Social Hub Belfiore attracted international visitors, providing a 550-room, four-star hotel, a 7,000 m² rooftop garden, and Tuscany’s largest coworking space with room for 500 professionals. The hub also offered state-of-the-art conference facilities for over 300 guests, a gym, a shopping boulevard, and additional public spaces, creating a dynamic and inclusive environment for both locals and travelers.

    Design

    The Social Hub Belfiore has been six years in the making, developed by an in-house real estate team in partnership with Florence’s Studio Natalini. The modern design takes inspiration from Florence’s Renaissance heritage, creating a vibrant and functional setting. Interiors by Rizoma Architetture incorporate bright colours and green spaces, fostering an environment where people can work, stay and socialise.

    The landscape, designed by Antonio Perazzi, includes Florence’s largest rooftop garden, with over 3,500 perennial plants, 500 shrubs and 55 trees, further enhancing the neighbourhood’s green public spaces.

    Dining

    The Social Hub Belfiore also aims to be a culinary destination, with a partnership led by renowned Florentine restaurateur Aldo Settembrini. The main restaurant, Ammodino, serves a modern take on Italian family-style dining, featuring handmade pasta and a wine list of more than 100 labels.

    The hub also includes an outpost of Panificio Menchetti, a bakery established in 1948, offering fresh pizzas, panini and pastries made with locally sourced ingredients. A rooftop bar provides poolside refreshments throughout the year.

    Community

    Recently certified as a B Corporation, The Social Hub is committed to fostering a strong and inclusive community. The new location will host more than 600 events annually, ranging from language and cooking workshops to professional development sessions and fitness classes.

    The Belfiore hub will also support scholarship recipients from the TSH Talent Foundation, an organisation that helps changemakers facing barriers to success. Additionally, partnerships with local businesses will encourage connections within the neighbourhood.

    Charlie MacGregor, the Edinburgh-born CEO & Founder of The Social Hub, said: “When we first invested in Italy nearly a decade ago, many doubted our success. But through collaboration with the municipality, architects and local partners, we have created two thriving hubs in Florence. The Social Hub Belfiore reflects our evolving model—one that revitalises neighbourhoods by responding to their needs.”

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