Marketing consortium Grand Heritage Hotels International launched its 1999 Global Directory this month featuring 14 new hotels including properties in Greece, Germany and Spain for the first time.
The new format, colour 90-page directory lists around 80 hotels in total in the UK, Ireland, Europe and the US, with the 1999 portfolio reflecting a 20% increase in European membership over last year.
Managing director and development director of Grand Heritage Hotels Timothy Hadcock-Mackay said: “We are looking to expand and by the end of this year hope to announce news of additional hotels with locations in the UK and Western Europe.
“At least three hotels will come on-line over the next couple of months. We are especially seeking properties in France, Germany and Italy.”
Grand Heritage targets both the domestic and international leisure and business traveller offering properties close to airports with prices from ú99 per night.
“Properties have to be historical, individual, independent and willing to work with us,” said Hadcock-Mackay. “Most are three-star plus, but many such as The Spread Eagle don’t have a star rating even though they offer superb service and style.”
Indeed, The Spread Eagle is one of a growing number of historic properties which are adding spas, health treatments and quirky weekend packages to widen their appeal and achieve star status.
The increase in demand from the corporate market prompted Grand Heritage to launch a conference hotline several years ago, but the company is now taking it a step further launching a Grand Heritage Conference Club on June 1. “It is not just a case of giving clients special rates and VIP treatment – some have requests. We are currently in talks with an organisation to take care of the nitty gritty such as booking cars, boats and theatre tickets.” Other plans include opening a travel agency.
This year members will gain publicity from four workshops, which includes agarden party in May at Pennyhill Park, Ascot, while another will take place at the Swan Diplomat in Berkshire. Members can also benefit from training. “We will bring training on-site and educate them in information technology,” said Hadcock-Mackay.