Jade - 10 Minutes News for Hoteliers

4 min

New Findings from Sprits Brand Mermaid Reveals a Nation Exploring Lower-Strength Drinks and Cocktails

🍹 British drinkers are shifting towards moderation, with 48% never participating in Dry January and 50% not setting resolutions around drinking. Mermaid, an Isle of Wight spirits producer, highlights that 57% quit Dry January by January 10th. There's a growing interest in lower-strength cocktails, but 39% find them hard to find. Mermaid introduces "Low Tide" cocktails with ABV ranging from 2.7% to 3.3%, catering to this trend while maintaining flavor and sophistication.

2 min

Minor Hotels Appoints Winston Gong as General Manager of Avani Kota Kinabalu

🏨 Minor Hotels announced Winston Gong as General Manager for Avani Kota Kinabalu, set to open in Q2 2026. Winston, experienced in Asia, Australia, and the Middle East, previously led Crowne Plaza Phu Quoc Starbay. The 352-key hotel features 22 suites, diverse dining, and meeting facilities. Located in Luyang, it is 13 minutes from Kota Kinabalu International Airport, aiming to cater to leisure and corporate guests with seamless connectivity.

6 min

Julia Birzele International Hospitality Pioneer

🌏 Julia Birzele, a hospitality leader with over 10 years of experience, has delivered projects in 10+ countries, including the UK, USA, and Mexico. She has run iconic venues like Lío London. Lío Group marked 15 years in Ibiza with record-breaking performance. Julia emphasizes cultural adaptability, exemplified by a hotel launch in Egypt. Her approach combines global brand consistency with local flavor, aiming for emotional guest experiences. She highlights post-pandemic trends favoring immersive, health-conscious experiences with AI-augmented hospitality.

3 min

ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, has now opened the doors to this year’s winter hotel, ICEHOTEL 36

❄️ ICEHOTEL 36 is artfully sculpted by 33 artists from 12 countries, featuring a 2,800 sqm space with art suites, a Main Hall, and a Ceremony Hall. Construction began with ice harvested in March from the Torne River and started in November. Highlights include a grand piano of ice and 12 art suites. Culinary experiences feature local ingredients. Guests can engage in Arctic activities like ice sculpting and snowmobile tours, enhancing their stay with nature-inspired adventures.

2 min

CHINA TANG WELCOMES LUNAR NEW YEAR 2026

🎆 China Tang at The Dorchester celebrates Lunar New Year 2026 on Park Lane with Cantonese traditions in 1930s Shanghai-inspired decor. On February 17 and 18, a Lion Dance welcomes guests for the Year of the Horse. Executive Chef Chong Choi Fong offers ten auspicious dishes symbolizing prosperity and unity, including Lo Hei, Sea Moss with Bamboo Heart, and Lobster with XO Sauce. The event features signature dim sum and cocktails, creating an elegant setting for festive gatherings.

3 min

£1BN LOCAL BUSINESS BOOM EXPECTED AS UK’S NEXT THEME PARK TAKES SHAPE

🎪 Universal Studios’ first European theme park will open in Bedfordshire in 2031, attracting 8.5 million visitors annually and creating 28,000 jobs. Local investment could reach £1 billion, but 19 hotels and 93 restaurants are needed to meet demand. Currently, there are only 4 restaurants and no adequate hotels. Construction costs may range from £240 million to £1.1 billion. Opportunities in hospitality, construction, and retail could transform Bedfordshire's economy.

2 min

SOOM Serves Up Korean BBQ in Covent Garden

🍴 Korean cuisine is flourishing in London, with 3KOBROS introducing SOOM in Covent Garden. This spot, located at 99 St Martin’s Lane, offers a unique BBQ experience with electric grills at each stone table. The interior features a 12-seat circular table, Goryeo celadon vases, and a two-metre-wide ceremonial gong. SOOM serves premium meats, vegetarian options, and creative desserts, alongside soju and Korean-inspired cocktails, inviting guests to enjoy shared dining in a serene setting.

3 min

Automat Mayfair: A Refined Take on American Dining Opens on Mount Street

🍴 Automat, located at 127 Mount Street, Mayfair, reopened in late 2025. It offers a modern take on American dining, led by One Luxury Group. The menu includes the Automat Burger, Lobster Roll, and signature cocktails like the Velvet Hour. Designed by Tomèf Studio, it features 58 covers on the ground floor. In 2026, Automat will add a Sporting Club with 24 covers and plans an exclusive Supper Club, enhancing its cultural and social appeal.

1 min

Chef Adam Handling MBE announces hospitality-only 50% offer at Frog by Adam Handling

🍴 Chef Adam Handling MBE is offering a 50% discount on lunch and dinner bills at his Michelin-starred Frog by Adam Handling in Covent Garden. This offer is valid every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday until the end of February. The promotion is exclusive to hospitality professionals, requiring proof of employment. Reservations must be made via email (info@frogbyadamhandling.com) and are subject to availability. The first two bookings dine for free. Follow @adamhandling and @frogbyah to share the offer.

2 min

Amamark Producer & New Supplier Showcase Returns to Food, Drink & Hospitality Week for 2026

🍽 Foodservice giant Aramark UK will host the Producer & New Supplier Showcase at Excel London from March 30 to April 1, 2026. This event, part of the Food, Drink & Hospitality Week, will allow suppliers to pitch their products to Aramark's experts. Stephen Brennan, VP of Aramark UK & IRL, highlights its value in forming partnerships with diverse businesses. Shortlisted suppliers will present live to Aramark directors for potential inclusion in their supply chain.

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