Xhulio Bishtaja

GAIA Skincare partners with three new Locations this Spring

 

GAIA Skincare, the female-founded wellness and spa brand, is thrilled to announce three new spa partnerships this spring, with Farlam Hall Hotel and Restaurant, who are also a PoB Hotel partner, Skylark Country Club located in Hampshire, and Kinnettles Hotel in St Andrews.

Farlam Hall, located in the leafy Cumbrian countryside, is a luxurious 4 AA Red Star hotel, with a highly acclaimed Michelin star restaurant, the Cedar Tree by Hrishikesh Desai and new chef’s table experience, HRISHI’s Table, offering guests an opulent dining experience in a traditional country house setting. The hotel offers 18 rooms and suites, thoughtfully designed to offer total serenity and comfort for guests.

Debuting in April 2025, Farlam Hall is unveiling The Sycamore Retreat at Farlam Hall, marking the hotel's entry into wellness. Set within its peaceful countryside surroundings, the new therapy room will provide guests with a serene environment to relax, promoting mindfulness, relaxation, and rejuvenation. The menu will feature a variety of GAIA Skincare treatments, including the Hot Stone Massage and Jade Facial. A cosy consultation room adjacent to the treatment area will offer a calming space for guests before and after their treatments.

GAIA is also thrilled to announce the partnership with Skylark Country Club, located in Fareham in rural Hampshire. A quintessential Country Club that offers members and visitors total relaxation and enjoyment, with facilities including a meticulously maintained 18-hole golf course and state-of-the-art health club with gym, spa facilities.

The spa area boasts an indoor swimming pool, hot tub and relaxation area, along with a team of experienced therapists, newly trained in a range of GAIA Skincare treatments, including the Salt & Oil Scub and Calming Journey.

The skincare brand is also pleased to announce their partnership with Kinnettles Hotel in St Andrews, GAIA’s third spa partner location in Scotland. Set in the heart of the historic city, the new boutique hotel offers guests a luxurious stay, conveniently located near The Old Course, perfect for keen golfers. A truly Scottish location, boasting their own Whisky Bar, fully stocked with the finest local tipples.

Kinnettles Hotel offers guests another way to relax and unwind, in the form of their spa which offers guests a full range of GAIA body and facial treatments, including the GAIA Poultice and Balancing Journey.

“Thrilled to welcome three new additions to GAIA Skincare. GAIA was developed through connections and growing relationships. As we nurture these qualities, we welcome Skylark, Kinnettles and Farlam Hall who have partnered with us through reputation, recommendation, and our association with PoB Hotels” Comments Diane Nettleton, Founder of GAIA Skincare.

GAIA Skincare has been developed through years of first-hand spa experience, offering extensive expertise in the field of spa and wellness, specialising in holistic and natural spa treatments complemented by a range of natural, organic, and vegan skincare products.

For more information about GAIA Skincare and becoming a GAIA Spa affiliate, visit www.gaiaskincare.com.

by Xhulio Bishtaja

Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens Awarded 3 Michelin Keys in the Inaugural Greece Michelin Guide Hotels Distinction

Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens has been awarded the highest recognition of 3 Michelin keys in the prestigious Michelin Guide’s brand-new hotels distinction, affirming its position as one of the world’s most exceptional hospitality destinations.

Launched across the world in 2023, and now launched in Greece this year, the Michelin keys list is a new distinction awarded by the Michelin Guide selection team. This recognition highlights hotels that offer the most remarkable stay experiences, evaluated according to five criteria of excellence: architecture and interior design, quality of service, personality and character, value for money, and contribution to the local experience.

In total, the Michelin Greece 2025 Guide selection features one 3 keys hotel, seven 2 keys hotels, and sixty 1 key hotels. As the only hotel in Greece to receive 3 keys, this distinction recognizes Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens as offering an extraordinary experience of stay, as described by the Michelin Guide.

"We are incredibly honoured to receive this prestigious recognition," says Jann Kaiser, General Manager of Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens. "This achievement is a testament to the dedication and passion of our team, who continuously strive to create unforgettable experiences for our guests along the stunning Athenian Riviera."

Nestled between the vibrant city of Athens and the serene waters of the Saronic Gulf, Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens blends timeless elegance with modern luxury. Here, where sea, land, and culture collide, guests are immersed in a setting that celebrates Greece’s natural beauty and rich heritage. Offering world-class dining, exceptional spa and wellness facilities, and an unparalleled connection to Greece’s rich cultural heritage, the hotel has established itself as a premier destination for discerning travellers worldwide.

by Xhulio Bishtaja

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Reports Strong Growth and Performance across EMEA

Image Header: Boreas Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham

 

World’s largest hotel franchisor opens more than 50 hotels and executes 83 contracts across Europe, the Middle East, Eurasia, and Africa in 2024

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company with 25 global brands and approximately 9,300 hotels, continued to drive momentum across Europe, the Middle East, Eurasia and Africa (EMEA) in 2024. The Company executed 83 contracts and opened more than 50 hotels (adding over 6,400 rooms), driving landmark expansion across the region—including France, India, Spain, Türkiye, and Portugal.

The region’s growth contributed to Wyndham’s 5% year-over-year growth of its global development pipeline to a record 252,000 rooms. The EMEA region also achieved strong RevPAR growth of 10% in 2024. Underpinned by its Owner First™ approach to franchising, Wyndham’s growth continues to underscore its strong reputation and long-term commitment to delivering success for its franchisees and owners. Inclusive of last year’s additions, the Company now has approximately 680 hotels throughout EMEA, representing approximately 93,000 rooms.

Dolce by Wyndham Barcelona Resort

"Wyndham's strong momentum in 2024 underscores the strength of our diverse brand portfolio and growing regional demand. We continue to strengthen our presence in key markets across EMEA where we lead while expanding into high-growth segments such as extended stay, branded residences as well as reinforcing our position in midscale. At the same time, our growth in the upscale segments with Dolce by Wyndham expanding across Europe and new destinations like France, India, and the UAE, presents exciting opportunities for our business partners. As we continue to grow, we’re focused on delivering long-term value in line with our Owner First strategies while meeting consumer demands and providing exceptional experiences for travellers."

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Gilgit

- Dimitris Manikis, President EMEA, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

 Wyndham’s growth across EMEA in 2024 reflects the company’s strategic expansion in key markets, leveraging strong brand recognition and increasing demand for diverse offerings. As International tourist arrivals are expected to grow in 2025, the Company remains focused on strengthening its presence in high-potential destinations.

Growth highlights in 2024 include:

  • Building on an Industry-Leading Presence in Türkiye

The largest international hotel company in the Türkiye with ~120 properties across 40+ cities, the Wyndham and its hotels are well positioned to capitalize on the country’s projected influx of over 70 million international visitors in 2025. Key openings in 2024 include:

 

 

 

  • Strengthening Ramada Throughout the Middle East and South Asia

Wyndham strengthened the footprint of its globally recognized Ramada by Wyndham brand in 2024, leveraging its strong reputation to enhance visibility in competitive regions. Notable openings in 2024 include:

 

 

 

 

  • Capturing Midscale Demand with Ramada Encore

The Ramada Encore by Wyndham brand saw further expansion in 2024, underscoring Wyndham’s commitment to meeting the growing demand for midscale accommodations throughout EMEA. Key openings in 2024 include:

 

 

 

 

 

  • Bolstering Dolce by Wyndham with New Premium Offerings

A leader in the upscale and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) segment, Dolce by Wyndham now has 12 hotels across the region, playing an integral role in Wyndham’s growing upscale portfolio. Notable openings in 2024 include:

 

 

Complementing the above openings, Wyndham also celebrated multiple notable signings in the EMEA region in 2024. Among some of the highlights:

  • Expanding in India with Microtel
    In collaboration with NILE Hospitality, Wyndham will bring its Microtel by Wyndham brand to India in 2025, opening its first locations this year with plans to open a total of 40 Microtel hotels by 2031. Hotels will be located in Tier-2, 3 and 4 cities.

 

  • Building Wyndham’s Presence in Portugal
    Strengthening its commitment to Portugal’s thriving tourism sector, Wyndham is working with The Lakhani Group to bring several new hotels to the country under multiple Wyndham brands, including the Wyndham Garden Alentejo Alcácer do Sal, Wyndham Residences Lisbon Loures and the L Hotels Fátima Trademark Collection by Wyndham. The hotels are expected to open in 2025.

 

  • Developing Branded Residences
    Further solidifying its growing branded residences portfolio, Wyndham has teamed with IDILIQ Hotels & Resorts to introduce the Wyndham Grand La Cala Golf Residences on the Costa del Sol in April 2026. Additionally, in the Mediterranean, the company is collaborating with DKG Development to introduce the first Wyndham Residences in Piraeus, set to welcome its first guests in December 2025, and with Oikos Property Developments to launch the first Ramada Residences by Wyndham in Halkidiki, Greece, in May 2026.

 

Wyndham’s continued growth in the EMEA region is powered by the Wyndham Advantage—a combination of world-class marketing, distribution and other resources designed to put owners on the path to success. Inclusive of more than $325 million in innovative technology investments over the past six years, owners have access to best-in-class technology from industry-leading providers, including next-gen property management systems, as well as a growing member base of approximately 114 million enrolled Wyndham Rewards members globally. To learn more, including franchising opportunities, visit whrdevelopmentemea.com.

by Xhulio Bishtaja

SHAPE Dispensers: The New Standard for The White Company Hotel Amenities

ADA Cosmetics, the market leader in premium hotel amenities, unveils the SHAPE dispenser system for The White Company’s exclusive hotel collections. Combining refined aesthetics with exceptional practicality, SHAPE dispensers embody The White Company’s iconic style while setting new standards in hygiene and sustainability. This partnership showcases ADA Cosmetics’ dedication to enhancing premium experiences for discerning hotel guests.

ADA Cosmetics and The White Company: Redefining Hotel Amenities

The SHAPE dispenser system is now integral to The White Company’s celebrated hotel collections: Lime & Bay, Flowers, and Noir. Reflecting the brand’s philosophy of creating everyday luxury, these collections capture the essence of elegant living. The sleek black and white design of the dispensers, combined with The White Company’s signature branding, enhances the aesthetic of any bathroom. It brings a touch of understated sophistication and timeless beauty into the space.

Hygiene Perfected for Peace of Mind

“The SHAPE dispenser embodies ADA Cosmetics' dedication to innovation in design and hygiene,” said Gerd von Podewils, CMO at ADA Cosmetics. “With its sleek aesthetics and mono-material hygiene pump with a patented drainage system, it not only elevates the look of hotel bathrooms but also sets a new benchmark in hygiene by ensuring the utmost safety and cleanliness for guests.” ADA Cosmetics has redefined hygiene with its groundbreaking dispenser systems, providing uncompromising safety for guests. Scientifically approved by a study from the Rhein Waal Institute in Germany, SHAPE’s advanced technology with an integrated drainage system prevents contamination of the dispenser contents and ensures maximum hygiene.

Sustainability at the Heart of Innovation

This innovative system exemplifies ADA Cosmetics’ drive to develop sustainable solutions, aligning with the broader shift in the hospitality industry toward eco-conscious practices. The streamlined design reduces housekeeping efforts while offering material savings of 67% and liquid savings of 50% compared to single-use plastic toiletry bottles. By addressing environmental concerns such as plastic waste, SHAPE meets a growing demand for sustainable practices while maintaining the highest levels of functionality and guest satisfaction.

The dispensers are also compatible with ADA Cosmetics Refillution, the market leader’s advanced refill solution for hotel cosmetics. This groundbreaking, patented refill system simplifies the process of replenishing dispensers, ensuring airtight refills for optimal hygiene and reduced waste. This resource-saving approach reaffirms the uniqueness of ADA Cosmetics’ forward-thinking solutions, which combine environmental responsibility with premium quality.

Where Tradition Meets Contemporary Sophistication: Great Southern Killarney

The historic Great Southern Killarney hotel in Ireland, an ADA Cosmetics partner for over a decade, was the stunning location for a photo shoot to launch the new collection. Offering a beautiful blend of Victorian heritage and modern elegance, the hotel provided an elegant setting to showcase the SHAPE dispensers. A landmark in hospitality since 1854, Great Southern Killarney embodies ADA Cosmetics’ values of exceptional design and commitment to sustainability. Its elegantly appointed bathrooms highlight the dispensers' seamless integration into luxurious spaces, further underlining their functionality and visual appeal. This collaboration celebrates an enduring partnership with one of Ireland’s most beloved railway hotels. The White Company: Redefining Lifestyle Luxury For nearly 30 years,

The White Company has been synonymous with everyday luxury.

The British brand creates stylish pieces for the home, including furniture, decorative accessories, home fragrances, and bath and body essentials, predominantly in white. It maintains a focus on excellent quality, sustainable sourcing, and long-lasting, timeless designs. With collections inspired by cherished moments and thoughtful details, The White Company creates essentials that elevate the ordinary into something special. Its dedication to crafting beautifully designed products, together with its commitment to a sustainable legacy, make The White Company a natural partner for ADA Cosmetics. For further details about the SHAPE dispenser launch for The White Company, please contact ADA Cosmetics or visit: ada-cosmetics.com.

by Xhulio Bishtaja

LA RUSTICHELLA CROWNS ITS FIRST STUDENT TRUFFLE MASTERCHEF

Header image: Left to right: Rita Brugnoli, Gus Curtis, Otylia Polczynska, Emma Sprake and Steve Walpole

This week, 13 students from Capital City College, Westminster took to the kitchens to compete for the title of Truffle Masterchef, in the final of a competition set by the chef’s truffle brand of choice, La Rustichella.

The competition, which attracted around 60 entries, challenged the third-year students to create an outstanding pair of dishes – either a canapé and a main course, or a petit four and a dessert – featuring ingredients from La Rustichella’s extensive portfolio of premium quality truffle products.

The initial entries were judged by the college’s Head of Third Year Professional Chef Diploma, Norman Fu and Chef Lecturer, Tom Egerton and Commercial Development Chef Chris Baston, who created a shortlist of 13 finalists. Originally the competition was intended to feature only 10 students in the final but such was the high standard of entry, the judges felt it was fair to extend the opportunity to a further three students.

The final took place at the college, with students cooking in front of a panel of esteemed judges, which included professional chef Steve Walpole, editor of Chef & Restaurant magazine Claire Bosi, Floriana Canadè representing the Italian Embassy and the owner of La Rustichella, Rita Brugnoli.

The judges hailed student Emma Sprake as the outright winner, with her stunning due of dishes: Wild Mushroom Tartlet and Halibut with Truffle Potato Scales, Seasonal Mushrooms, Truffle Mash and Truffle Beurre Blanc. As the first prize winner, Emma will be travelling to Rome to enjoy a stage at La Rustichella’s restaurant, Love Truffles.

The runners up were Otylia Polczynska who produced an outstanding Black Truffle Macaron and Truffle Crème Brûlée served with Honey Truffle Figs and Gus Curtis whose Truffle Egg Crostini and Halibut and Truffle Hazelnut Pesto with Celeriac Puree also earned high praise from the judges. Both runners-up received cash prizes.

Commenting on the competition, La Rustichella’s Rita Brugnoli said, “We were delighted to have the opportunity to work with Capital City College, Westminster to launch the inaugural Truffle Masterchef competition. Our rationale for this initiative is to ensure that La Rustichella continues to not only appeal to the emerging culinary talent entering the world of hospitality, but to also align our brand with the creativity and inspiration associated with the younger generation, which we believe will enable our outstanding truffle-based products to remain relevant to the priority audience of discerning professional chefs. We were impressed with the high standard of dishes produced by the students, and it was difficult to pin down one winner but ultimately we were unanimous in our decision to choose Emma as the recipient of the title, Truffle Masterchef.”

by Xhulio Bishtaja

Barons Eden Partners with Sustainable Skincare Brand VOYA to Launch New Treatments and Products

Barons Eden, the luxury hotel and spa group, is excited to announce new treatments to the menu with the award-winning, organic skincare brand VOYA. This collaboration will introduce a range of luxury holistic, wellbeing focused treatments to Hoar Cross Hall and Eden Hall, available to guests starting March 17, 2025.

Guests will be able to indulge in a variety of VOYA organic wellness treatments, available at both luxury locations. VOYA are specialists in the power of hand and seaweed therapy, the new treatments will include the VOYA Mindful dreams Body Ritual and VOYA Rose Quartz Facial.

VOYA Mindful dreams Body Ritual

Discover the restorative power of wild, organic seaweed on the skin and let the wondrous scent of lavender and rosemary envelop body and soul and melt away any stresses, promoting relaxation, inner harmony and a peaceful night’s sleep. Incorporating specially designed soothing oils alongside sleep inducing cultural massage and meditation techniques, this wellbeing focused treatment evokes instant tranquillity and nurtures inner wellbeing, calmness and serenity.

VOYA Rose Quartz Facial

This specialised facial is the complete approach to results driven organic skin health. Using VOYA’s first bio-tech skin specific serums, combined with the sonic pulses of the Haumea Brush technology, targeting various skin concerns for optimal skin health. Starting with VOYA’s deep cleansing ritual to ensure your skin is prepared for a deep exfoliation that diminishes congestion and lacklustre skin. Followed by a powerful age defying facial massage using rose quartz crystals and shoulder massage, all to be polished off with VOYA’s advanced serum and moisturiser tailored to your skin’s needs.

All VOYA products are cruelty-free, certified organic, and made using recycled, recyclable, or biodegradable materials. Known for their innovative seaweed-based facial and body treatments, VOYA’s products blend the latest scientific advancements with the natural healing benefits of marine ingredients. The VOYA Face Range has been upgraded to include high-performance formulas, designed to address a wide array of skincare concerns with the power of organic seaweed and marine actives.

Edward Law, Director of Barons Eden, comments, “Sustainability continues to be a key focus for our guests, and our ongoing partnership with VOYA allows us to offer a diverse range of organic and eco-conscious treatments. We are delighted to introduce these new VOYA experiences, providing guests with an indulgent yet sustainable way to enhance their well-being.”

Chantal Sanders, Global Head of Sales and Marketing at VOYA, adds, "We are delighted to collaborate with Barons Eden, a company that shares our dedication to sustainability and high-quality wellness experiences. By offering our products and treatments, we are able to connect guests with the natural benefits of organic seaweed, supporting their well-being in an environmentally conscious way."

 

by Xhulio Bishtaja

HOSPITALITY SECTOR SHOWS APPETITE FOR AI, RESEARCH SHOWS

Hospitality employees are embracing AI to deliver better guest experiences – with almost all saying it has had a positive impact on their workplace.

New research from The Access Group found that 54% of people who work in hospitality, and who regularly handle information as part of their job, use AI tools, and 91% say it’s been beneficial.

The Access Group surveyed employees in 12 industries and professions. While the hospitality sector was behind the tech industry (with 74% adoption), it was way ahead of not-for-profit, and health and social care sectors at 29% and 30% respectively.

Hospitality staff cite better productivity, reduced workloads and cost-savings as the top benefits of AI – but nearly two-fifths see it as a way to enhance customer experiences.

Top five benefits of AI according to hospitality professionals:

  • Employees are more productive (45%)
  • Reduces workload (42%)
  • Saves the business money (41%)
  • Better customer service (39%)
  • Helps people think outside the box (36%)

Generative AI tool, ChatGPT is the most popular application – used by nearly half of the respondents, and three-quarters say it has reduced their stress levels. However, the survey also revealed some concerns, with 42% fearing it could replace people.

Champa Magesh, Managing Director - Access Hospitality, said:

“Hospitality is an inherently human industry – which might seem at odds with the rise of AI, but we know that the two can work hand-in-hand.

“Our survey found that 39% of hospitality staff see AI as a way to enhance customer service – the highest of any sector analysed, and well above the all-sector average of 29%.

“Any efficiencies pub or restaurant groups can make, at both a head office and operational level, will free up staff to focus on delivering more personalised guest experiences. It’s certainly not about replacing people, especially in a sector like hospitality which has experienced labour challenges for years.”

Marko Perisic, Chief Product and Engineering Officer at The Access Group, said that the adoption of AI in hospitality was positive – but added that employees must be given the right tools and training.

“There are so many AI tools out there, and hospitality employees are already using them in creative ways, such as developing content and using software to help their venue stand out and deliver that all-important personalised experience.

“We know that there can also be downsides to AI if left unchecked so it’s vital that companies choose vendors who understand the specific needs of the hospitality sector and who prioritise data security. This should be underpinned by clear company policies on AI and training on how to use it effectively.”

The full research can be found here: www.theaccessgroup.com/en-gb/evo/insights.

For more information about Access Evo, The Access Group’s new AI solution for businesses, visit: www.theaccessgroup.com/en-gb/evo.

by Xhulio Bishtaja

Amex GBT integrates industry-leading hotel marketplace with new Concur Travel to transform customer experience

Exciting new technology and content partnership will deliver the best value, choice and experiences for customers

American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT), a leading software and services company for travel, expense, and meetings & events, has announced a pioneering integration of its hotel marketplace into the new Concur Travel solution via Hotel Connector, enabling seamless access to the most comprehensive and competitive hotel content in business travel.

Alongside their negotiated hotel programs, joint customers can choose to add extra content with more than 2 million properties across 180 countries and a wide range of rates, including Amex GBT preferred partner rates and offers from Expedia and Booking.com – all contained within Amex GBT’s industry-leading hotel marketplace.

Simon Fishman, Vice President, Global Business Partnerships, said: “We believe this is the crucial next step in empowering our travellers and clients to get the very best of the Amex GBT marketplace. By providing access to more than 2 million properties around the world at great rates, we are excited that through this commercial and technology partnership we can now bring these benefits to our SAP Concur customers.”

Charlie Sultan, President, Concur Travel, said: “SAP Concur and Amex GBT have collaborated to improve access to hotel content for joint customers. With significant enhancements to the user experience, through new Concur Travel, Hotel Connector and the integration with Amex GBT’s marketplace, customers will receive greater choice, along with personalised, relevant hotel content. Our partnership has been key to making a positive impact on business travel hotel bookings.”

Further benefits for Amex GBT customers on the new Concur Travel solution include:

  1. AI-powered solution: comprehensive management and optimisation of travel programmes, search capabilities delivering intelligent, personalised hotel recommendations.
  2. Enhanced user experience: A streamlined booking and checkout process with an intuitive interface. Richer content with improved images, descriptions and detailed information, to help travellers make informed decisions more easily.
  3. Efficiency & time savings: Faster booking workflows and a seamless checkout experience.

Please find more details on Amex GBT’s hotel solutions here.

by Xhulio Bishtaja

Clean the World welcomes PPHE Hotel Group to its Global Hospitality Recycling Programme advancing hotel waste reduction

Global leader in environmental and social impact solutions, Clean the World, is proud to welcome PPHE Hotel Group (“PPHE” or “the Group”) to its Global Hospitality Recycling Programme.

To date, 17 of the Group’s hotels across the UK and Europe have joined Clean the World’s ‘plastic bottled amenity’ recycling programme, with more set to enrol throughout 2025. The collaboration will see discarded plastic amenities that would otherwise end up in landfill be collected and processed into plastic pellets which can be repurposed into circular products, supporting Clean the World’s mission to drive a positive environmental impact, whilst helping the Group manage its waste responsibly and contribute to the circular economy, reinforcing its commitment to a more sustainable future.

PPHE Hotel Group is an international hospitality real estate company with a portfolio valued at £2.0 billion that includes full-service upscale, upper upscale and lifestyle hotels in prime European locations. It enjoys an exclusive and perpetual license from the Radisson Hotel Group to develop and operate Park Plaza® branded hotels and wholly owns the art’otel® and Arena Hotels & Apartments brands.

This expansion marks another significant step forward in the hospitality industry’s efforts to tackle plastic bathroom amenity waste, which aligns with the growing demand for sustainable solutions in the sector. Another example of how the Group continues to pioneer innovation and sustainability within the hospitality industry, it follows the introduction of non-refillable amenity formats across Park Plaza hotels in Europe, which is expected to save up to 37 tonnes of plastic waste each year.

Tommie Eaton, Director of Clean the World in UK and Europe said: “PPHE Hotel Group’s commitment to our recycling programme reflects their forward-thinking approach to sustainability. By tackling amenity waste and reducing their carbon footprint, they are setting a powerful example for the industry. This partnership underscores the growing momentum towards responsible, circular solutions in hospitality, and we are proud to support PPHE in driving meaningful environmental impact.”

Alex Matulina, ESG Manager at PPHE Hotel Group added: “In 2024 we transitioned from miniature toiletry bottles to larger dispensers across all our hotels - an important step in our journey to reducing waste. However, these dispensers still generate plastic waste, making the disposal process critical. Partnering with Clean the World ensures that all used dispensers are collected and processed responsibly reinforcing our commitment to circular solutions and environmental responsibility”.

As more hospitality leaders embrace Clean the World’s approach, the programme continues to expand globally, exemplifying a dedication to sustainability that sets a standard for others in the industry to follow.

For more information on Clean the World and its global impact, please visit https://cleantheworld.org.

by Xhulio Bishtaja

GEN Z ‘CAN BE MENU REJECTORS’

Unilever Food Solutions UKsI launches FUTURE MENUS VOLUME 3

  • FUTURE MENUS reveals how chefs and operators can attract and maximise spend with inffuential yet polarised Gen Z demographic
  • New More in Common research shows that Gen Z can be menu rejectors
  • Unilever Food Solutions’ four key trends highlight how to future proof menus, increase footfall and drive loyalty
  • Customisation is king – how to target consumers that embrace variety vs meeting demands of those who seek more control over their menu choices

Unilever Food Solutions UKCI (UFS) has launched its third annual FUTURE MENUS report, highlighting four key foodservice C hospitality trends that are critical to business success. The in-depth research reveals how chefs and operators can meet the demands of consumers, with a particular focus on Gen Z; to keep their businesses relevant, drive footfall and unlock spend.

FUTURE MENUS Volume 3 includes new insight commissioned from opinion poll and social research experts More in Common. Gen Z – who eat out in the UK more than any other generation – aren’t just another demographic, but increasingly economically powerful trendsetters, craving exciting dining experiences that are personalised, globally inspired and shareable.

Key findings from the FUTURE MENUS Volume 3 report show that Gen Z ‘can be menu rejectors’ and their preferences need to be front of mind for operators to win.

Here’s a taster of what the Gen Z demographic accept and reject on menus:

  • Gen Z are the only generation where a majority say they eat out at least once a week, with over 25% eating out multiple times a week
  • One in ten only go to restaurants where they can customise dishes
  • Customisation fosters loyalty – 62% of Gen Z are more likely to return to a restaurant that encourages customisation
  • 77% of Gen Z are more attracted to restaurants with adventurous, global cuisine
  • 62% say they are likely to return to a restaurant that features modern takes on food from around the world
  • 60% of Gen Z would be more likely to return to a restaurant where the chefs blend food from different cultures
  • 26% would be less likely to return to a restaurant that only serves British cuisine
  • 26% of Gen Z are often overwhelmed by long menus, compared to 15% of the nation

The FUTURE MENUS Volume 3 trends are:

  • Borderless Cuisine – globalisation and migration are blending diverse food traditions as chefs honour their multicultural origins, a trend that’s driven by our increasingly migratory world
  • Street Food Couture – traditional street foods are being elevated to gourmet offerings with chef expertise in every food service channel, including fine dining – Gen Z is a major driver of this trend
  • Diner Designed – growing demand for personalised and immersive dining experiences and value-added experiences is driving this trend
  • Modernised Comfort Food – diners seeking foods that are deeply nourishing for the soul, covering everything from nostalgic dishes that feel comforting and safe, to recipes familiar to chef heritage and regional classics.

Colin Butler, Managing Director at Unilever Food Solutions, says: “We understand the many headwinds and challenges operators of all sizes are facing right now. Trade body UKHospitality has stated that the changes in the 2025 Budget will cost hospitality businesses £3.4bn, so our latest FUTURE MENUS report could not be more timely or relevant.

“FUTURE MENUS is Unilever Food Solutions’ annual deep dive into the key trends that are reshaping menus worldwide, featuring unrivalled in-depth global market research and culinary insights. It’s a critical tool for chefs and operators to help spark culinary creativity, drive innovation, and create relevant, memorable dining experiences for customers that unlock spend and drive loyalty.”

To download the Future Menus Volume 3 report, visit: ufs.com/futuremenus

by Xhulio Bishtaja

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