The Independent Hotel Show, the business event for luxury and boutique hoteliers, has announced that its 2025 edition, taking place on 6-7 October at Olympia, will explore the theme of Redefining Luxury.
Glenn Wallace, Event Manager for the Independent Hotel Show, explains: “We speak to independent hoteliers every day and it’s clear that changing definitions of luxury remain high up the agenda. The evolving nature of what defines luxury today reflects broader changes in society and consumer expectations and is something that all independent hotels are tackling in their own unique way.
“It’s about delivering bespoke, personalised experiences that truly resonate with the individual, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, and we’re so excited to explore this theme at our 2025 event.”
The theme of Redefining Luxury mirrors both the wide variety of exhibitors featured at the show and the event’s own ethos: creating an inspiring, high-end trade show experience with immersive design, elegant show features and curated content that reflect the refined standards of the modern independent hotelier.
From contemporary elegance and intuitive service to sustainable innovation and heartfelt guest connection, Redefining Luxury captures a diverse range of approaches being embraced across the hospitality industry.
A broad spectrum of interpretation
The theme has already sparked conversation among the industry’s most forward-thinking hoteliers.
Jason Adam, Managing Director at The Headland, reflects: “As we celebrate 125 years of The Headland, we’re proud to be redefining what luxury means for the modern traveller. Our vision of ‘five-star Cornwall, not formal’ honours our rich heritage while embracing contemporary elegance, ensuring every guest experiences something truly timeless. For us, we define luxury by creating unforgettable, tailored experiences for our guests – whether they’re visiting our restaurants or spending time in one of our cottages with loved ones. Our aim has always been to create an atmosphere of relaxed luxury with excellent, approachable but unobtrusive service.”
Stephen Browning, Hotel Director at The Feathers adds: “For us at The Feathers, redefining luxury in 2025 means creating a guest experience that feels both deeply personal and effortlessly relaxed. It’s not about formality, but about meaningful touches, warm, intuitive service, beautifully crafted food, and spaces that invite guests to truly slow down. Luxury today is less about extravagance and more about authenticity, comfort, and connection.”
Stuart Procter, Chief Executive Officer at The Beaumont Mayfair, believes the fundamentals of luxury are as relevant as ever, commenting: “In my 25 years of running hotels, luxury hasn’t changed; it is about the people offering the clients extraordinary, personalised service. This is the key to luxury.”
Mark Heyburn, General Manager – Pre-Opening, Sir Devonshire, adds: “Luxury in 2025 isn’t about marble floors or gold-plated doorknobs (though hey, we’re not mad at those). It’s about connection. It’s walking into a space and instantly feeling like, ‘Yep, this is my spot.’ The vibe’s easy, the welcome’s warm, and the little things – like someone actually remembering your name – make all the difference.”
Reflecting on a changing hotel landscape
This reimagining of luxury extends beyond hoteliers to the designers and industry stakeholders shaping tomorrow’s guest experience.
Marie Soliman, Founder of Bergman Interiors, notes a similar evolution in the design world: “When I think of ‘Redefining Luxury,’ I envision a shift towards authentic experiences that prioritise quality over opulence. Quite subtle luxury, exclusive approach to travellers and curated stays. Luxury interior design for hotels should celebrate tranquillity and connection, also wellness, allowing guests to appreciate the subtleties of their surroundings. It’s about creating spaces that resonate with a sense of quiet elegance and innovation, inviting guests into a world of curated comfort.”
Robert Richardson, CEO of the Institute of Hospitality, contextualises the shift within broader industry and economic trends: “In a time of economic challenge, redefining luxury means offering guests meaningful, personalised experiences that go beyond opulence; experiences where comfort, sustainability, community, and authentic service are the new hallmarks of a truly luxurious stay in 2025 and beyond.”
Grace Leo, Founder & CEO of Grace Leo Consultancy, adds: “Luxury is a word that has been democratised so much that it has lost its true meaning. For me luxury in hospitality is the ability to uphold the values that differentiate a standard hotel versus an outstanding one. It is above all the human factor that defines luxury – a receptionist who provides a warm and personal welcome upon arrival, demonstrating attentiveness to guest requests and questions, delivery of service that’s beyond the line of duty executed with sincerity and style.”
Suppliers bringing luxury to life
Exhibitors at the 2025 show are ready to demonstrate how this new vision of luxury is being brought to life across the sector.
Delaine Walker, Vice President of Sales – UK & Ireland at ADA Cosmetics, shares: “Luxury hotel amenities used to focus on the prestige of the brand name. Today, luxury amenities are defined more by the guest experience, personalisation, authenticity, and ethical values. While high quality remains core, ADA Cosmetics transforms this concept by forging thoughtful partnerships between hotels and premium cosmetic brands, enhancing the guest experience from arrival to departure.”
David Baldry, Group Managing Director at Hypnos, adds: “At Hypnos, we believe the ultimate luxury for guests is a truly restorative night’s sleep. Luxury today is about more than just comfort – it’s also about care, craftsmanship, and ethical design. Every Hypnos mattress is made to the same exacting handcrafted standards.
“Through meticulous craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and a deep commitment to sustainability, we create mattresses that elevate the sleep experience and reflect the values of modern, high-end hospitality. That is how we define true luxury.”
Join the conversation around Redefining Luxury at Independent Hotel Show 2025.
Visit independenthotelshow.co.uk to learn more about everything taking place as part of this year’s event on 6-7 October at Olympia.
