Travel and media entrepreneur Clive Jacobs has agreed in principle to acquire Caterer and Hotelkeeper, the UK’s only weekly magazine for hoteliers and restaurateurs, from Reed Business Information.
The acquisition will be Jacobs’ second from Reed Business Information, following the purchase of the Travel Weekly Group in August 2009. Terms of the proposed transaction have not been disclosed.
Jacobs said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to acquire this iconic business-to-business portfolio of magazines, information services and events, having long been a reader of Caterer and Hotelkeeper and an admirer of the vibrant and vital industry it serves. I have exciting plans to reinvigorate and expand the magazine, its online services and events which include the coveted Catey awards.
“In the three years since acquiring the Travel Weekly Group from RBI, we have invested heavily and launched new publications, events and digital services to create a true 21st century media business which is now the undisputed market leader. I am looking forward to bringing the same levels of energy and innovation to Caterer and Hotelkeeper to reignite the business and ensure it consolidates its position at the heart of an industry that has never been more vital to the UK economy.”
Dominic Feltham, chief operating officer of Reed Business Information said: “The Caterer and Hotelkeeper portfolio has been a valued part of RBI over many years but we recognise a greater opportunity for the brand to flourish within Clive’s independent publishing group. I would like to thank the team for their tremendous effort and professional approach in very tough trading conditions. They now join a team with a proven track record in digital and print and the skills to secure a positive future for the team and brand. We wish them all well. “
Jacobs founded Holiday Autos before selling it to lastminute.com in 2003, and has extensive experience of the hospitality sector as a former owner of a number of high-profile businesses including Michelin-starred restaurants.
He added: “There is a natural fit between the Travel Weekly Group and Caterer and Hotelkeeper businesses, and I see an enormous opportunity for this expanded portfolio to play an essential role in a diverse and dynamic industry which is particularly close to my heart.”
Caterer and Hotelkeeper will be relocated to the Travel Weekly Group’s offices in Victoria, central London, following the completion of the sale.