FRIDAY 25 JULY 2014 JERSEY EVENING POST 11
BUSINESS
Establishment crowned best independent hotel in national awards
Atlantic becomes first Island hotel to win industry ‘Oscar’ By Harry McRandle hmcrandle@jerseyeveningpost.com
THE Atlantic Hotel has won a national award in the hospitality industry’s equivalent of the Oscars.
The four AA red star St Brelade hotel took the title of Independent Hotel of the Year 2014 for Great Britain and Northern Ireland at The Caterer magazine’s annual Catey awards, and it is a first for a Jersey hotel. The Cateys recognise the industry’s ‘highest flyers, strongest performers and hottest brands’ and the awards ceremony at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel was attended by the country’s leading hoteliers and restaurateurs. The award was presented to the Atlantic’s owner Patrick Burke, who said: ‘This is the first time in the history of the Cateys that a Jersey hotel has won the award and I am so proud to be bringing it home. It represents national recognition of the many years of hard work by our dedicated and talented team and puts the Island firmly on the hospitality industry map at the highest level.’ The Atlantic Hotel beat off competition from Congham
Patrick Burke, owner of the Atlantic, is presented with the Catey award for Independent Hotel of the Year. Alongside him, from left, are Caterer editor Mark Lewis, BSkyB deputy managing director Alison Dolan and actor David Harewood Hall Hotel in Norfolk and the Great Northern Hotel, London, to win the prestigious
award. Previous winners have included the Pig in Hampshire, the Isle of Eris-
ka in Argyll, Scotland, and Lucknam Park in Wiltshire. More than 140 judges,
selected for their industry knowledge, determine a shortlist for the Catey
Awards after a rigorous initial selection process. Finalists must be able to demonstrate sound financial results, innovative marketing campaigns, exceptional standards of service and a clear strategy for future investment and growth. The Atlantic was built by Mr Burke’s father, Henry, in 1970. The 50-bedroom hotel is regarded as one of Jersey’s leading luxury hotels and has held a Michelin star since 2007 for its Ocean restaurant. Editorial coverage in a host of European publications has resulted in a growth in bookings across European markets with Switzerland up by 27 per cent, France by 47 per cent and Germany by an impressive 53 per cent. Mr Burke founded the Luxury Jersey Hotels group five years ago, and last year the Atlantic led a gourmet break product that offered guests the opportunity to enjoy three Michelin-starred restaurants in Jersey during their stay. The award judges noted that the hotel’s turnover for the year ending 31 January 2014 increased by 17 per cent to £2.76 million.
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