Posts by author

Heather Sandlin

65 posts
View Post
  • 1 min

Clermont Hotel Group Partners with RADA Business to Train 1,700 Staff in Performance Skills Using Acting Techniques

🎭 Clermont Hotel Group has partnered with RADA Business to provide performance training to 1,700 staff members. The Summer Skills Fest, employing acting techniques like RADA’s ‘body, breath and voice’ framework, includes three presentation skills workshops. Over 50 front-of-house staff at Gordon Ramsay's Hell’s Kitchen in the Cumberland hotel (opened in April) have already benefited. This initiative aims to transform hospitality into an experiential service, enhancing customer interactions.
View Post
Share
View Post
  • 2 min

Dumbleton Hall Hotel Reopens in North Cotswolds After Two-Year Restoration Under New Ownership

🏨 Dumbleton Hall, built in 1830, reopens after a two-year restoration. Located in the North Cotswolds near Cheltenham and Stratford-upon-Avon, it spans a 16-acre estate with a lake and gardens. The hotel features 34 individually styled rooms and spaces like the Drawing Room and Library Bar. Dining is led by Chef Dean Westcar, with the Cedar 1905 restaurant serving British cuisine. The Orangerie will open in August, offering fine dining. Historically, it hosted figures like Dickens and Darwin.
View Post
Share
View Post
  • 18 min

Article Advocates Rethinking Central Reservation Systems for AI-Driven Hospitality Future, Not Just Replacing Them

🏨 In April 2026, Skift reported that AI systems by Amazon, Meta, and Google are diversifying travel planning, making standard CRS outdated as they can't support AI-mediated real-time offers. The article emphasizes the need for a commercial engine to replace the CRS, focusing on modular technology and granular data for AI integration. By 2030, 30% of travel bookings will be AI-executed, stressing urgency for hotels to adapt or risk disappearing from AI-driven channels.
View Post
Share

Valor Hospitality Aims for Green Key Certification Across 40 UK Hotels as Part of New Sustainability Strategy

📍 Valor Hospitality plans to achieve Green Key certification for 40 UK hotels to enhance sustainability by 2026. This strategy includes environmental impact, stakeholder engagement, and resource management. The voco Zeal Exeter Science Park hotel, certified in March 2022, is the group's precedent. With 80% of travelers valuing sustainable travel, Valor aims to align with global trends. Each hotel will undergo independent audits to comply with Green Key standards, reflecting Valor’s ESG commitment.
View Post
Share

Fairmont St Andrews Appoints Janette Napier as Director of Sales for MICE with 35 Years' Experience

🏨 Janette Napier was appointed as director of sales for MICE at Fairmont St Andrews. With over 35 years of experience at Gleneagles and Hilton, she will drive growth in international meetings and events. Her role involves overseeing client relationships and attending trade shows. Fairmont's decision supports its strategy to bolster revenue in the Scottish conferences market. Jane Frazer, Sales Director, praised Napier's experience and commercial skills, anticipating growth in the MICE market.
View Post
Share

IHG Names Voco Zeal Exeter Science Park 2025 Opening of the Year for Net Zero Carbon Achievements

🏨 IHG Hotels and Resorts awarded Voco Zeal Exeter Science Park the "2025 Opening of the Year" for being the first lifecycle net zero carbon hotel for IHG and Zeal Hotels. Opening in February 2025 in Exeter, it operates on 100% renewable energy, using less than 50% of the energy of a typical hotel. The hotel received a BREEAM 'Outstanding' rating and was named Green Building Project of the Year at the Edie Net Zero Awards 2025.
View Post
Share

IHG Hotels and Resorts Signs Theobalds Estate as First UK Property for Noted Collection Brand in Hertfordshire

🏨 IHG Hotels and Resorts has signed Theobalds Estate in Hertfordshire, formerly home to King James I, as the first UK property for its Noted Collection. Located 35 minutes from London, the estate covers 55 acres and will become a wellness destination with a new spa, gym, and wellness center. The estate features a 25-meter outdoor heated pool, which will include a restaurant and play area post-renovation. IHG aims to expand Noted Collection to 150 hotels globally in 10 years.
View Post
Share
View Post
  • 2 min

Hilton Launches First Home2 Suites in Dublin, Marking Brand's Entry into Europe, Middle East, and Africa

🏨 Hilton opened Home2 Suites Dublin City Centre, the brand’s first in Europe, Middle East, and Africa. Located near O’Connell Street, it offers 290 suites with kitchens, a 24-hour retail area, and pet-friendly amenities. This development meets Dublin's rising demand for apartment-style accommodations. Founded in 2009, Home2 Suites has over 800 global locations and 750 more in development. Stephen Cassidy from Hilton and Sonia Kajani from JMK Group emphasize the brand's flexibility and appeal for extended stays.
View Post
Share

King Street Aparthotel Shortlisted for Boutique Hotel of the Year at Scottish Hospitality Awards 2026

🏨 King Street Aparthotel has been shortlisted for Boutique Hotel of the Year at the 9th Scottish Hospitality Awards 2026. Located on King Street in a restored building, it features 15 rooms with a focus on design and heritage. Winners will be announced on 17 June 2026 at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Glasgow. Public voting is open online. The awards highlight excellence in 19 categories within the Scottish hospitality sector.
View Post
Share

World-Renowned Dante to Debut Permanent Restaurant at Claridge’s Mayfair in June After Year-Long Residency

🍴 Claridge’s in Mayfair will reopen mid-June 2026 as Dante Mayfair after a redesign. The original Dante, established in 1915 in Greenwich Village, is operated by Linden Pride and Nathalie Hudson. They took over in 2015, earning top accolades. The new venue will offer Italian-Australian cuisine and a signature martini service, reflecting Manhattan's influence. Claridge's closed on 10 May 2026 for renovations. The goal is to create a lively community atmosphere in Mayfair.
View Post
Share