HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT ISSUE 9
l
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018
Indulge in
Beautiful hotel bedding from
La Sausy Salsa Authentic traditional and versatile Spanish salsa!
“
Do hoteliers actually put themselves in the shoes of the guests by staying in guest bedrooms?
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23/01/2018 20:56
PHOENIX SECURITY
A range of products to help you protect an improve your profits and your customer service
Phoenix Safes based in Liverpool for over 30 years produce a range of security products to enhance your hotel security This includes hotel safes to suit every budget manufactured in our own factory and produced in several sizes and specifications to meet your room requirements n Front of house deposit lockers for instant protection of your guest’s valuable at reception n Back of house safes to keep your takings instantly secured at any time n Deposit safes where money can be inserted into the safe but only retrieved by the responsible management can be fitted with digital locks for multiple users with audit facilities n Our unique Valistore safe that counts, validates and protects your takings in a sealed back ready for cash in transit collection all money can be remotely monitored via the cloud
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Phoenix Safes FULL PAGE ADVERT_JAN.indd 2
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WELCOME
& CONTENTS
EDITOR´S
16-17
14 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018
CONTENTS 8-9 FORAGING & CHATTER 12-13 INDELIBLE BOUQUET 14 OUT OF EDEN 16-17 FAB LITTLE BAG 19 WELCOME SYSTEMS 20-21 HOPE & GLORY TEA 23 UKLPG 24 PR NEWS: BADGEMASTER 27 XEROS CLEANING 28 CHEF´S DISH OF THE MONTH 31 MURRAY ROBERT´S COLUMN 32-33 INTELLICO
WELCOME
W
elcome to the Jan/ Feb issue of Hotel & Housekeeping management. I hope you enjoyed the festivities and are now back in full swing running your establishment’s. In this issue we read about Fab Little Bags´ eco friendly clean products, that can help enhance your Hotel´s reputation,
we take a look at Hope & Glorys´ tea offering, and La Saucy Salsa get our taste buds tingling with fantastic produce. Added in this issue is a subscription page, if you want to receive all issues in 2018 a small fee of £27.50 will ensure you keep up to date with all that´s happening within your industry. All the best Chris Keightley, Editor
HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT IS PUBLISHED BY YES KNOW MEDIA LTD EDITOR: Chris Keightley chris.yesknowmedia@gmail.com 07818 711 387 (Business mobile) DESIGNER: Sharon Larder inthedoghousedesign@gmail.com The Publisher cannot accept any liability for transparencies, disks or any written material submitted for publication. Reproduction of any written material or illustration wholly or in part for any media is expressly forbidden without prior consent of the publisher.
HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT 3
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SUBSCRIBE TO HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT MAGAZINE Hotel & Housekeeping Management magazine is an independent magazine to be used as a business tool for general managers, facility managers and executive housekeeping teams to help provide insightful editorial and to keep you up to pace with your industry.
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Please call (Business mobile) or email chris.yesknowmedia@gmail.com for details
subscription page full page.indd 1
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In addition to the UK’s largest selection of restaurant supplies, you can now buy all your beverages too - on one website. Just one more reason to choose Restaurant Supply Store.
DrinkStore@
restaurantSupplyStore.co.uk
01375 651 600
ECO STEP BY STEP ● Boost your environmental credentials with
eco-friendly products ● Cater
for the many guests who prefer natural products. Browse the range here: http://bit.ly/ESBS_EShop
● Appeal to the growing
number of guests with allergies and sensitivities with the EcoEgg laundry ball (also highly economical at 720 washes for £19.99): http://bit.ly/ESBS_Egg720ff Tel: 07585 553652 Facebook: www.facebook.com/EcoStepByStep Twitter: @EcoStepByStep Email: ecostepbystep@wikaniko.co.uk HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT 5
AD PAGE 5.indd 2
23/01/2018 20:34
Full Steam Ahead The Sunbeam Steam Master Pro Iron from aslotel lights the way in hotel guest care • A vertical steamer to remove creases when guests unpack • Motion smart auto shut off 30 seconds in horizontal position and 15 minute in the upright/resting position • Greensense™ iron delivers water savings of up to 45% compared to a standard iron • Non-stick soleplate with hot warning strip • Clearview™ LED lights • 12 foot 360° swivel cord
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8 6 HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT
AD PAGE 6.indd 2
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AD PAGE 11.indd 1
21/04/2017 00:50
FORAGIN WITH FORAGE & CHATTER
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he Scottish foraging scene has seen a flourishing of popularity in recent years, with more people going out and ‘hunting’ for their food. There is no packaging, no added chemicals, no air miles and you know the exact provenance of your food when it has been picked by your own hands; it’s also a great excuse to go out and explore the stunning nature Scotland has to offer. Although foraging has become exceedingly more popular, don’t run out and start picking anything you can find. It’s recommended that you get
yourself a guide book or take a course if you can. It is important to be safe and know what you are looking for. Forage & Chatter, a new restaurant concept in Edinburgh’s West End are passionate about showcasing Scotland’s natural larder, with all of their ingredients and produce supplied from within a 25 mile radius of the restaurant. Here are some tips and tricks from the restaurant on how you can go out and forage for your supper: n “Scotland is an outstanding place for foraging. We are incredibly lucky to have a lengthy spring and autumn, the right climate for amazing herbs and hedgerow berries and extensive forests full of delicious mushrooms.” n “Scottish law entitles us the Right to Roam which means that you have access to amazing countryside, forests and hillsides. Foraging for personal use is legal anywhere that you have the right to roam, however you mustn’t uproot any plants. n “Be considerate. You’re not the only person looking to forage so don’t be greedy with your take. Also consider your impact on the local environment and wildlife. Another tip is to always wash your findings thoroughly.” n “Always be aware that there are species of plants and fungi that are dangerous, so never eat anything unless you are 100% sure what it is. n “I always recommend that you start with something very simple on your first foraging outing; brambles, damsons, raspberries, nettles etc. These
8 HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT
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ING
FINE FOOD
are things that can be identified by a guide book very easily.� Forage & Chatter is rated 5 stars on TripAdvisor. Opening in late 2016, the restaurant is regularly fully booked, with Saturday night tables being almost impossible to secure without at least several weeks advance booking. With earthy, rustic themes running throughout, this unusual dÊcor compliments the heart of what Forage & Chatter is all about; decorated with different types of plants, surrounded by open brick work and dim lighting, the interior is built to enhance the theme of foraging, foliage and hidden treasures. Additionally, the booths are furnished with Balmoral tweed over the seats and each section is different, providing for contrasting atmospheres; more intimate upon entry and then a busier dining area set against the backdrop of a Stucco Veneziano wall showpiece. Up the stone stairs is a raised area with purple chairs and lighting creating a family friendly, fine dining aura.
VISIT FORAGE & CHATTER FOR A MEAL AT: 1A Alva St, Edinburgh EH2 4PH | enquiries@forageandchatter.co.uk | TEL: 0131 225 4599 | www.forageandchatter.com HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT 9
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AD PAGE 10.indd 2
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23/06/2017 11:06
INDELIBLE
BOUQUET
Silk Flowers
12 HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT
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HOSPITALITY
The perfect alternative to fresh flowers
F
ounder Maria Del Mar for many years worked in the Interior and Exterior landscape and facility industries servicing many businesses. Her passion for Silks started over 10 years ago alongside her career and family life. Styling and providing silks for businesses, private homes and events, Maria Del Mar worked hard to dispel the “fake myth”. This year Maria Del Mar took a leap in Silks by focusing on the business full time by launching and rebranding, then exhibiting Indelible Bouquet at the FM London Excel show. The only Silks flower company to have ever exhibited at the show which was a risk however, a great success as most corporate businesses appreciated they could have extravagant displays with low maintenance and cost. Delighted with the success, clients encouraged and supported Indelible Bouquet to exhibit at the Independent Hotel show. Our silks were highly embraced and visitors to the stand not only showed interest but placed orders, made appointments for surveys etc. all of which, exceeded our new business expectations within the Hotel and luxury apartment industry. Many who visited the stand never guessed they were not real and viewed silks as the sensible alternative!.
WHY SWITCH TO SILK?
Floral displays create a positive and lasting first impression, which is why so many businesses who care about their hotel, office, serviced apartments, hospitality, event or home environment choose them. But they can be expensive and difficult to keep in peak condition. Luckily new materials, designs, technology and techniques means there’s a superior luxury alternative to what many think of as ‘artificial’ flowers or ‘fake’ florals. Today, luxury silk flowers provide the same beautiful, extravagant and lifelike effect, but with low maintenance, longevity, kind to the environment by reducing carbon foot print – and at a price to fit any budget. Indelible Bouquet makes choosing silk an easy option. We provide a contract rental service, bringing a new display to your workplace on a weekly, fortnightly or monthly basis – with displays delivered to your location, and with aftercare covered in your contract. And in addition to rental and contract arrangement we also sell silk flowers to many customers spanning a wide range of clients requirements.
Silk flowers offer the same visual impact as fresh flowers at competitive prices Silk flowers do not discolour, droop, attract pests or cause allergies Silk arrangements are not affected by environmental factors Silk flowers are long lasting and durable Silk is far more lifelike than artificial or ‘fake’ flowers – they look as good as the real thing Silk is a durable luxurious fabric – but available to suit any budget
CONTACT www.indeliblebouquet.co.uk | +44 (0) 203 002 3614/+44 (0) 7970557903 | maria@indeliblebouquet.co.uk HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT 13
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BATHROOMS
GUESTS
PAMPERING YOUR
CHOOSING COMPLIMENTARY TOILETRY PRODUCTS BY HOLLY ALDERSON, OUT OF EDEN
C
omplimentary toiletries, although a nice added touch and highly convenient for your guests, are no longer regarded as a bonus, but more of a standard expectation. Whether offering bargain or boutique products, the guest amenities you provide will encapsulate the character, standards and values of your bed and breakfast and can be the difference between a good review and a great one. As guests, we are all guilty of quickly inspecting what products have been laid out after check-in, and nothing will leave your guests feeling more pampered than an attractive set of toiletries. However, with an abundance of toiletry collections on the market, it can be a difficult decision to pick the products best suited to your bed and breakfast. So, here are a few things to consider that might make your decision somewhat easier:
LOOKING GOOD
When picking products for your guest’s bathroom, the appearance of the toiletries you are providing should
be consistent with your branding. For a classic, sophisticated appearance, a smart, slim-line bottle with minimalist labelling would work well. On the other hand, vibrant packaging such as the Be Different collection will give a fresh, fun and youthful feel. It is all about who you’re marketing to, and the impression you want to give.
ETHICAL AMENITIES
Of course, providing an attractive amenity collection is definitely going to please your guests, but that old saying ‘it’s what’s on the inside that counts’ is more than appropriate for your toiletries. Have you considered the benefits of offering Fairtrade, ecofriendly and paraben free products to your guests? Ethical amenities, such as the Fairtrade CosmEthics collection, are a sure way to express the standards you have set for the rest of your bed and breakfast.
SUITABLE SIZING
So, you’ve chosen the brand, but what size do you pick? On one hand, 300ml refillables are less maintenance in that they need replacing less often. Not only that, larger bottles mean less waste and prove more cost effective as they’re generally cheaper to buy in bulk. However, the more your guests pay the higher their expectations become, and would they be more satisfied with individual, luxury toiletries laid out especially for them? Again, it all depends on who your guests are, and the standard of service you’re offering to them. At Out of Eden, we offer an array of attractive, ethical and eco-friendly toiletry collections at an affordable price, so you can pamper your guests with luxury products without breaking the bank.
CONTACT www.outofeden.co.uk | 01768 372 939 | sales@outofeden.co.uk 14 HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT
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15/02/2017 19:32
AWKWARD ISSUE ALERT! 16 HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT
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D
BATHROOMS
Find out how hotels are saving money, trouble and the environment with one fab little solution THE ONE QUESTION YOU NEVER ASK YOUR GUESTS
As your guests check in, perhaps you ask them if they’ve had a good journey or whether they’d like a wake-up call, but perhaps you should be asking them “are you a flusher or a binner?”. When it comes to toilet matters, we’re understandably rather private, but the issue of what your guests flush down the toilets can be a very costly one. The biggest culprit is flushed sanitary products, which cause unpleasant blockages in the pipes and drains.
EVERY HOTEL HAS THIS PROBLEM
This embarrassing problem affects every hotel, from the humble guesthouse to the grand palatial establishment. This is because 60% of women in the UK flush their tampons. These items can usually make it past the U-bend but trouble is stored up before too long, leading to a nasty mess and a call to the plumber.
WHY DOES IT HAPPEN?
Even if you include a polite sign and a bathroom bin, research shows that some women continue to flush their sanitary items. This is because the alternatives - bundling them up in toilet paper, or using see-through or open-ended disposal bags - are rarely up to the job, so flushing is preferred. It’s not a ‘feel good’ experience for anyone concerned.
none of the dreaded rustle, sparing your guests’ blushes. When your cleaners come to empty the bin, the mess and smell will be hygienically sealed inside.
WHAT ABOUT THE ENVIRONMENT? FabLittleBag was invented to tackle the issue of aquatic pollution. Flushed sanitary products block sewers, causing overflow into rivers, with tampons washing up on beaches. This takes a heavy toll on our precious wildlife. By converting flushers into binners, this problem is stopped at source. The bags are partly made from sustainable materials and are fully biodegradable, so your green conscience can rest easy.
WHAT ARE THE OPTIONS?
FabLittleBag is available in chic reusable wallets to offer with your guests’ toiletries, or you can install a smart bespoke dispenser, available in chrome or white. This fixes easily next to the toilet, using sticky pads or screws. For large orders, you can even add your logo and brand colours to the bags.
SEE FOR YOURSELF
Fabbing is believing. Why not get in touch to receive some free samples? We’d be happy to talk through the options.
THE FAB ANSWER IS HERE
Finally there is a new product which offers a fit-for-purpose alternative to flushing and a five-star experience for your guests: FabLittleBag! These genius disposal bags have a patented design and have been proved in research to convert die-hard flushers to binners. Your guests and your pipes will thank you!
WHAT’S SO FAB ABOUT IT?
FabLittleBag opens with just one hand, using the clever finger loops. It seals away tampons, pads, wipes and condoms - no leaks, no odour, no fuss. The biodegradable bags are opaque, with
CONTACT Penny 07577 610 422 | penny@fablittlebag.com HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT 17
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TECHNOLOGY
HOW TO ENCOURAGE BETTER TRIPADVISOR REVIEWS FOR YOUR B&B
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here are clever, smart ways to encourage guests to leave good reviews for your hotel… and then there are the rather more daft approaches made by Basil Fawlty types. For an example of the latter, look no further than the owner of the Royal Clarence Hotel in Somerset, who recently decided to label one group of guests “muppets” after they allegedly demanded a refund in exchange for a positive review. This chap’s anger is understandable, even if his way of dealing with it is somewhat questionable. Hoteliers know the value of good reviews - they improve rankings on review sites, OTAs and search engines - therefore obtaining them and dealing with the negative stuff is a highly emotive topic. It goes without saying you shouldn’t bribe guests into leaving decent reviews on TripAdvisor, but there are a number of legitimate ways you can increase the chances of them doing so:
People lead busy lives, and therefore often need encouragement (and the odd reminder) to do their bit on TripAdvisor if they thought your B&B was particularly wonderful. Don’t be afraid to give them a gentle nudge!
NEVER COMPROMISE ON SERVICE - EVER
For guests to leave decent reviews, you need to provide a stellar service each and every time they step into your B&B. If you run your business like a tight ship and value customer service above all else, you’re already halfway there.
MENTION IT DURING THE CHECK-OUT PROCESS
During the check-out process, encourage reception staff to ask if the guest had an enjoyable stay. If the answer is “yes”, encourage them to share their experience on TripAdvisor. This is by far the best time to ask, because the positive vibe you’ve created for them will be fresh in their mind.
SEND A FOLLOW-UP EMAIL
Clearly, not every guest is going to take up - or remember your suggestion that they leave a review, but there’s a neat way you can remind them to do so. A day or so after the stay, schedule a follow-up email. “We’d love to see you again”, “thanks for staying with us”, “why not leave us a review?” are the kind of things you want to be saying in order to tempt them to the review site.
KEEP AN EYE ON SOCIAL MEDIA
If you’re using software to keep an eye on mentions of your hotel on social media, you can pounce on the positive stuff. For instance, if you spot a tweet that tells the story of a wonderful stay at your B&B, retweet it first, but then reply. Thank the guest for taking the time to tweet and kindly ask that they leave their happy thoughts on TripAdvisor for you, too.
CONTACT www.welcome-systems.uk HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT 19
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Customers
SHOULD BE DEMANDING GREAT QUALITY TEA
20 HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT
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FOOD
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hen it comes to talking tea, few come as passionate as Bharat Chudasama, Commercial Director and Tea Master of Hope & Glory Tea, the Hertfordshire-based company he founded with his wife Nina two years ago. Since then, their 100% organic, whole leaf, premium speciality teas have been embraced by some of Britain’s most discerning hotels. These include the 5-star Waldorf Hilton in Covent Garden, London and Pride of Britain Hotels, the prestigious consortium of privately owned luxury hotels up and down the UK. An impressive achievement, no doubt, but for a couple driven to transform the nation’s approach to tea, it’s only the beginning. ‘At Hope & Glory, our ethos is about bringing great quality tea to every single tea lover,’ says Bharat. ‘Tea is still Britain’s favourite drink by far, but we’d like to make sure that it stays that way. For us, the best way to make this happen is to educate people so that they demand only the best tea. Hoteliers have an important role to play in this process, by serving a product that in its superior taste, flavour and aroma, but also provenance and sustainability, matches the positive image they wish their property and brand to project.’ The Chudasamas gave up full-time jobs in the corporate world, Bharat in pharmaceuticals and Nina in IT, to travel the world in search of the best teas they could find. All of Hope & Glory’s teas and tea blends are hand-picked from tea gardens and plantations that these self-confessed ‘devoteas’ have personally selected and in most cases visited themselves. In line with Hope & Glory’s strong ethical and sustainability ethos, Bharat and Nina will only source their teas from growers who are members of the Ethical Tea Partnership, and they are also fully paid up members of the Fairtrade movement. In fact, Nina, who is CEO of Hope & Glory, recently arrived from visiting a tea garden in Sri Lanka so remote and isolated that for miles around there were virtually no other signs of human habitation. It demonstrates the lengths and depths the company will go to find great tea. There are currently eleven varieties in the Hope & Glory Tea range, including the Great Taste Award starred
English Breakfast Tea and Masala Chai, their signature Red Velvet infusion, Jasmine, Earl Grey and Green Tea. Bharat believes that the time has come for hoteliers and F&B managers to take tea as seriously as they do their wine lists, adopting an attitude to tea that not only enhances but spreads commercial benefits beyond the quintessential, and lucrative, Afternoon Tea offering. Bharat points out that the best tea is after all like the best wine. ‘Like wine, it all starts with the terroir,’ he says. ‘That is, the land and the region, environment, including the climate, in which tea is grown. Like wine, how and when the tea is harvested and processed is also important. These are all factors that affect the overall quality of the tea.’ Many are still unaware that the size and quality of the tea-leaves used to make a cup of tea can also make a huge difference. ‘At Hope & Glory, we only use whole, loose leaf teas, not the micro-particles of highly processed tea, what you call dustings or fannings that you normally find in ordinary tea bags. The more whole the leaf, the richer and more complex the flavour and notes, or aroma. Now more than ever too, there is evidence that the better quality the tea, the better its health benefits. Great tea makes winners of us all, and for hotels it also makes real commercial sense.’ Now that Hope & Glory is the exclusive tea partner of the Waldorf Hilton, Chudasama is pleased that he and Nina will be able to work with General Manager Guy Hilton to help the hotel convey its knowledge of tea to its guests. Because, Bharat firmly points out,
& DRINK
working with Hope & Glory offers much more than a good tea list. He refers to his background in the international corporate world as an additional asset. ‘I understand the P&L’s and all the operational requirements a business has. I understand what a General Manager needs. But I also understand that if I’m an Operations Director or an F&B Manager, there are implications we need to think about when introducing something new to clients and guests. How will it affect other functions, such as back of house? Training, service, attention to detail in terms of utensils and teaware are all key to get things right. And the fact of introducing great tea to enhance the tea experience for guests must form part of the overall commercial strategy. It’s also about providing true value in every aspect of your business. In this way, Hope & Glory is in a unique position to help hotels.’ In the end, it boils down to raising guest expectations of their tea. ‘I did say that we need to get people to start demanding the best tea can be. If hotels can go on this journey with us, letting their guests know by their superior tea offering that it’s just not good enough to serve tea that isn’t the best in taste, flavour and aroma, that isn’t the most environmentally friendly, that doesn’t have great health benefits, then we can make a real difference in consumers approach to tea. Together, we can be the pioneers.’
TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HOPE & GLORY TEA VISIT www.thehopeandglory.co.uk CONTACT Bharat Chudasama or the Hope & Glory Team | customerservice@thehopeandglory.co.uk | 07920 567 882 HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT 21
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25/01/2018 12:32
LOCK IN CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
TillSecure Systems are specialists in Hospitality & Hotel Locking Systems. In addition to the latest systems for Commercial
and Hotel Guest Room Locks, we also provide service and support for existing systems.
We have over 30 years experience in Support and Installation of Systems throughout Mainland UK, Ireland and the Channel Islands and always provide the highest level of service and support to our clients. From a new install to a system upgrade to the latest RFiD systems TillSecure can help. Cost effective locking solutions installed with minimal disruption and industry leading support for you and your staff.
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We can also supply in-room energy savers, door indicators, mini bars, room safes, and gym or sauna locks.
www.tss-locks.co.uk T: 0844 99 33 253 E: info@tillsecure.co.uk TILL SECURE_full page advert_June_July.indd 1
22/06/2017 19:44
LPG
HOSPITALITY
HELPING TO DECARBONISE ENERGY IN OFF-GAS GRID HOSPITALITY
W
ith more than 30 million visitors each year, tourism in the UK contributes £121 billion to the economy and makes up 7% of the national GDP. Whether you run a holiday park, pub, restaurant, hotel or cater for many of the increasingly popular food and music festivals, a reliable, clean fuel is essential. Extremely versatile and widely available, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) continues to grow in popularity for off-gas grid catering, heating and hot water at a wide variety of venues and there are a number of reasons for this:
Familiar
LPG acts like natural gas and is a controllable and easy-to-use fuel. Those familiar with mains gas will find LPG performs in the same way for heating, hot water and cooking. It is also compatible with some of the most energy efficient equipment available.
Environmental Benefits
Environmentally-friendly practices have become a key part of the hospitality sector as sustainable tourism rises up the agenda. LPG emits 35% less CO2 than coal and 12% less than oil. These low carbon properties help rural hotels, pubs and restaurants to reduce their carbon impact and improve their green credentials, while at the same time, LPG’s efficiency as an instant and clean fuel supply can greatly reduce running costs without compromising on the comfort of guests. Lords of the Manor, a luxury hotel in the Cotswolds, saw savings of £20,000 per annum and a reduction in carbon emissions of more than 22% after switching from oil to LPG for its central heating and water system.
Safety first
It’s not a blot on the landscape
Tourism is often about stunning locations and LPG can be stored in large tanks underground if required to avoid spoiling the aesthetics of a country setting. It also eliminates the risk of unsightly spills, smells and land contamination that you can get with oil.
It’s reliable
Telemetry systems alert the supplier when fuel needs replenishing, ensuring a seamless and convenient low carbon fuel source for every type of accommodation, from forest lodges to large hotels with spas that have intensive high energy needs throughout the year.
LPG comes with decades of safety advice and experience that give users clear guidelines for the safe use of LPG in a range of hospitality scenarios. In fact, just this September UKLPG launched new catering codes in partnership with the Nationwide Caterers Association. Keeping guests happy is a vital part of any food establishment’s remit and LPG gives owners and operators the peace of mind they need, leaving them to focus on delivering a great customer experience. The benefits of LPG in the hospitality sector speak for themselves and UKLPG members are on hand to provide independent advice to businesses looking to take advantage of the savings it can bring to their business, both in terms of financial outlay and environmental impact. Indeed, the LPG industry has long been a keen supporter of the leisure industry. In our response to the Government’s Clean Growth Strategy and our future pathways document Gas for Off Grid Britain, we make it clear that LPG has a vital role to play in helping to decarbonise heat in rural areas, and perhaps most importantly, it can do so today.
Rob Shuttleworth, Chief Executive UKLPG
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON LPG AND TO FIND YOUR LOCAL SUPPLIER VISIT www.uklpg.org HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT 23
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PR NEWS
AMBITIOUS GROWTH PLANS AS BADGEMASTER SECURES NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR
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e might be in the midst of significant advancements in technology, but one thing remains true in business, excellence in customer service will never go out of fashion. Placing customers at the heart of the company is the foundation upon which John Bancroft MBE and wife Vicky have built Badgemaster. And their commitment to excellence in all areas of the business underpins their success; Badgemaster is now the UK’s leading and largest badge manufacturer. Twenty-five years ago, founder John, had a vision for the business; today’s Badgemaster is a reflection of that vision. And the last quarter of a century provides a fitting backdrop to their ambitions for the next two decades; ambitions shared by new Managing Director, Ian Bradbeer FCMA. Ian’s appointment is a noteworthy step towards ambitious growth plans. He brings with him a wealth of experience from the manufacturing industry and as MD of Trodat UK Ltd was fundamental to their significant growth and rise to market leader. As John puts it: “We have invested in the best.” Ian says “I have known John for some years and have watched as he and Vicky led Badgemaster to the formidable company it is today. I am thrilled to be given the opportunity to help shape the company of the future.” Founder John Bancroft MBE remains at the helm John will remain at the helm as Chairman, and his business ethics and ethos will remain central to future developments and growth; the heart of the business will not change. “Our heart and soul goes into this business, day in and day out. We never settle for anything less than excellent in our products, customer care and the satisfaction of our staff. So when it came to bringing a senior manager into the fold, it was important to Vicky and me
that they shared our values and vision. We are delighted to welcome Ian to the Badgemaster family” says John. Growth is at the centre of the journey upon which the 110-strong Badgemaster family is about to embark. They will stay true to their traditional principles while continuing to embrace the modern world and the opportunities it presents. Outside investment has provided the means for onwards growth, with external expertise providing the wealth of experience to deliver it. John says “Vicky, and I are proud of the business we have built, and I am looking forward to steering its future, shaping the strategic opportunities and developing our commercial and digital strategies, together with Ian.”
Commitment to customer care
Embracing new technology has helped Badgemaster reach, and remain at, the top of their game. Fuse that with their commitment to excellence in customer service and e-commerce developments make perfect sense. “Providing a consistently high standard of care to customers and
delivering a service which meets their needs, every time, and on time, remains a priority for the business. Our e-commerce solution will launch next year and will be backed up with the great customer service we are known for, as and when the customer needs it” says John. Further acquisition is also in the pipeline following on from the successful acquisition of their Scottish competitor in 2014, which will cement their position as Britain’s number one badge maker for years to come. With expansion comes more jobs, and John is as committed as ever to supporting the local economy. John says “People are at the heart of our business; our suppliers, customers and our staff. As Badgemaster grows, so too do the opportunities for us to support our local community. As a company, our success has been in part due to the dedication and professionalism of our staff – all of whom are a part of our local community. As we grow as a company, I will not forget that.” The future looks bright for the Badgemaster family and their customers.
CONTACT www.badgemaster.co.uk 24 HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT
PR NEWS_BADGEMASTER_JAN.indd 2
23/01/2018 21:29
AD PAGE 33.indd 2
23/11/2017 21:00
FROM CONCEPT DESIGN TO HOTEL ROOM Soft furnishing specialists for the hospitality industry Concept Contract are a major soft furnishing specialist in the hotel industry. Why not refresh your rooms at trade pricing with quality hotel spec fabrics. Average bedroom cost • One pair of unlined blackout curtains (based on 200cms x 240cms drop) • One single voile with pencil pleat heading • Two co-ordinating 43cms x 43cms cushions and pads • Silent Gliss contract tracks and fittings • One double padded bed throw
£375 + VAT All curtains and voiles will be made to measure from your sizes Full installation service available at additional charge Minimum order three rooms
Contact Charlotte on 0207 232 5068
AD PAGE 30.indd 1
15/01/2017 18:59
CLEANING
XEROS INTRODUCES FILTRATION INNOVATION TO PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT FROM MICROFIBERS CREATED FROM HOME LAUNDRY
X
eros Technologies (LN:XSG), the developer of polymer technologies which radically improve the sustainability and performance in water-intensive consumer and industrial processes, today announced XFiltra™, a new technology that removes microfibers from home laundry wastewater. Xeros is showcasing this transformational home laundry technology at Booth #42552 in the Sands Expo, Level 2, at the Consumer Electronics Show, January 9-12, 2018, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Xeros will also be demonstrating its innovations at the ShowStoppers event at the Wynn Hotel on January 9, 2018. Today, about 60% of our clothing contains synthetic fibers including yoga pants, fleece coats, workout gear, and even dress shirts to name a few.
Synthetic fibers enhance the look and the performance of these garment but new research indicates that these fibers may cause an environmental risk. Every time these garments are washed, they shed tiny plastic microfibers. A 2016 study pioneered by Patagonia Outfitters and conducted by the Bren School of Environmental Science & Management found that a single fleece jacket can shed up to 250,000 microfibers during a single wash. The fibers are so small that they pass through wastewater treatment facilities and enter our streams, rivers, lakes and oceans where they make their way into the food chain. Rather than require wastewater treatment plants to spend on massive capital improvement projects, Xeros’ filtering innovation, XFiltra, greatly reduces microfibers from entering the environment by addressing the problem directly where the microfibers are created, in the home washing machine.
XFILTRA FILTRATION TECHNOLOGY
XFiltra is compatible with any home washing machine and features a clever and elegant design for easy cleaning and hassle-free maintenance by homeowners. Filtering home washing machine water has two benefits; protects the environment from harmful microfibers and protects your garments by ensuring they are always washed with cleaner water. The XFiltra includes an integrated pump, filter and dewatering device. Unfiltered water enters the XFiltra where the microfibers are trapped and are spun dry into a solid disk for easy removal. When the XFiltra is ready for cleaning, just open it up, remove the dry microfiber disk, and place it with your everyday trash. Visit https://xeroscleaning.wistia.com/ medias/zx2sizp5qs to see a video of the revolutionary technology in action.
CONTACT www.xeroscleaning.com FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT http://ces.vporoom.com/Xeros HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT 27
Xeros Cleaning article_jan.indd 1
23/01/2018 21:32
CHEF´S DISH
of THE MONTH
KEDGEREE SCOTCH EGG By Hugh McGivern MCGB. Executive Development Chef u The idea for a Kedgeree Scotch Egg has been rattling about inside my head for ages. So a couple of months ago I put the idea on paper and then on the menu where I was working. The uptake was amazing with people who expected a piece of poached haddock with rice, a boiled egg and some sort of curry sauce, and got my creation.
INGREDIENTS (6 PORTIONS)
u 6 soft boiled Quails eggs (into boiling salted water for just over a minute then removed and plunged into iced water until completely cold.) u 500g skinless natural smoked haddock. Chop roughly and place in food processor and blend for 20 seconds, add a whole egg and a little white pepper and blend some more, add about 5070ml double cream and blend again for 5 seconds. Chill for 1 hour in a fridge. u 3 separate bowls containing the following. Bowl 1 - 150g fresh white breadcrumbs. Bowl 2 - 1 beaten egg with the same amount of milk beaten into it. Bowl 3 - 100g plain flour.
METHOD
1. Taking great care, tap each egg then gently roll and peel off the shell (give a gentle wash to remove any bits of shell and dry on kitchen paper). 2. Divide the fish mousse into 6 and with slightly wet hands place a ball in the middle of your hand and flatten, place an egg in the middle and bring up all the edges completely sealing the egg. Roll gently until you get a smooth ball. 3. Roll each egg into the flour and gently shake off any excess, now dip into the egg mix ensuring an even cover then into the breadcrumbs, giving a gentle squeeze to make sure they adhere. Chill in fridge. 4. In a small saucepan add 50g butter with 30g finely chopped shallots and cook over a gentle heat without colouring. Add 2 teaspoons of mild curry powder and cook for a couple of minutes slowly add 150ml of either chicken or vegetable stock, cook for 15mins over a gentle rolling heat add 50ml of double cream and strain through a fine sieve.
TO SERVE
u Heat a deep fat fryer to 180oC. u Place the eggs in the basket and fry
for 3-4 minutes occasionally gently shaking the basket to ensure an even colour. Drain and allow to rest on kitchen paper. u You can use a multitude of bases ( I used an onion risotto) or wilted spinach. u Take a warm bowl or plate and place either a large spoonful of risotto or seasoned spinach in the middle and place the egg on top. u With the warm curry sauce gently whisk in a few knobs of butter then drizzle around the egg. u Garnish with some finely chopped chives and enjoy...
CONTACT 07597 557 128 | hmtconsulting@hotmail.co.uk 28 HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT
chefs dish of the month_kedigree_JAN.indd 2
23/01/2018 21:33
SEBO DART Target dirt with a DART If you’re looking for a vacuum cleaner that’s fast, powerful & easy to manoeuvre, the SEBO DART hits the target every time! Easy to manoeuvre Low maintenance High filtration Quiet Powerful Easy to use
Professional Vacuum Cleaners • Made in Germany AD PAGE 21.indd 1
15/08/2017 12:57
ESTABLISHED 1988 COMMERCIAL LAUNDRY AND LINEN HIRE SPECIALISTS
“A family business you can trust” When you choose Tip Top, you’ll benefit from a bespoke service based on a clear understanding of your business requirements, our in-depth product knowledge and our commitment to ensuring customer satisfaction.
We know that you expect exceptional product quality, value and reliability from your linen supplier. That’s just the start when you’re a Tip Top customer. We take pride in getting to know you, so that our friendly, expert staff can offer advice and support.
We work within a 50 mile radius of Luton covering Herts, Beds, Bucks and Cambs.
TIP TOP LINEN SERVICES LTD Unit F1, Cradock Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU4 0JF T: 01582 495 485 F: 01582 599 839 E: info@tiptoplinenservices.com W: www.tiptoplinenservices.com
TIP TOP LINEN FULL PAGE ADVERT_JAN.indd 2
23/01/2018 20:45
MURRAY ROBERT´S COLUMN
INVESTINGin your
2
GUEST AMENITIES
018 and our 40th anniversary year in the hotel supply business and in that time we have seen many great advancements and improvements in the world of hospitality. Our job is and always has been three fold in as much as we understand the hospitality industry based on 40 years experience, secondly grasping the needs of hoteliers to deliver the best package to impact on guests and lastly, but by no means least, anticipating what guests expect when staying at a hotel. To help us in these endeavours we work with the best brands, designers and manufacturers to deliver excellent products and amenities that are designed and created specifically for the hospitality industry. Interestingly, in a recent poll published in Boutique Hotelier, 61% responded ‘Yes’ to the question
“Do you think guests are willing to pay a premium for hospitality services and products that are delivered by brands with strong corporate social values?” - A powerful message and one that cannot be ignored and is something that we, as a company, strongly adhere to which is why we work with global and reputable brands. A New Year can be an appropriate time to review guest amenities and to consider what is installed and provided in the guest rooms, such as bedroom and bathroom equipment and to review toiletries that are complementary for guests to assess if, what is offered, is the best choice. In the words of an AA Inspector recently, he posed the question ‘do
hoteliers actually put themselves in the shoes of the guests by staying in guest bedrooms and using all of the facilities and toiletries to experience a
stay through their eyes.’ That is a very good question to ask. When a guest checks in are there measures in place to explain and bring to guests attention the benefits and features of the amenities provided - for example, will they know that the iron in the room incorporates a steamer facility to help eliminate creased clothing after un-packing? Or that the magnified cosmetic/ shaving mirror in the bathroom can be lit? And that the safe in the wardrobe is simple to use? Without sounding patronising, guests do need to be made aware of features as it is not always immediately apparent. The guest experience is enhanced by drawing attention to these added features and facilities, after all don’t let’s lose an opportunity. To achieve your vision of a great guest experience, invest in the best
quality amenities that you are able to, including equipment and toiletries – as it is worth bearing in mind guests do not always voice their observations and comments particularly when unimpressed. So always ensure that the amenities provided are the best they can be for the category of hotel as it will pay rewards in the long run.
MURRAY ROBERTS | SALES & MARKETING DIRECTOR | ASLOTEL HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT 31
MURRAY ROBERTS COLUMN_JAN.indd 1
23/01/2018 21:35
INTELLICO Making life easier
32 HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT
Intellico article DPS_jan.indd 2
23/01/2018 20:51
CLEANING
By Richard Hose | Managing Director | Intellico Dishwashers
M
y team and I have almost 20 years of expertise in the sales and service of Commercial Dishwashers & Glasswashers and we work hard to bring you great results with your ware wash systems. We create fantastic dishwashing systems for very busy restaurants and kitchens that increase productivity, that increase profits, and that are sustainable for our water ways, our oceans, and our world. I set up the company in 2010, because I could see customers receiving the wrong dishwashing equipment that was not fit for their environment and was being bought purely on price, customers receiving poor service and customers being overcharged and let down at every turn. I work with a brilliant team and between us, we are very passionate about what we do, and training and accreditations are very important to us for our development as individuals and to help us move forward as a company and serve our customers. To date we are members of the Federation of Small Businesses, members of the Catering Equipment Distributors Association (one of only four in Scotland), and we hold Safe Contractor Accreditation and have done so since 2013.
Whether it is for the supply of Commercial Dishwashers and glasswashers, the supply of spare parts for the machines, chemicals, or business support services, we look to align ourselves with companies that are great at what they do, have similar values to our own, and are people that are easy to deal with. In the last year, we have aligned ourselves with United Nations Global Goal Number 14 – ‘Life Below Water’, where we commit to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development. Since getting involved, we have changed our dishwasher and glasswasher chemicals so that they are now more machine, water and world friendly, in line with Global Goal 14. We have successfully transformed dozens of kitchens in Central Scotland and throughout the UK and one of our main mantras is that we are open, honest and reliable. When we are faced with some tough decisions to make, we always fall back on these basics. This helps us to do the right thing, as we aim to ‘Making Life Easier’ for restaurant owners, chefs, and kitchen staff. Providing the best dishwashing and glass washing set up for our customers is what we do best.
Team Intellico with Managing Director Richard Hose (centre)
CONTACT www.dishwashersandglasswashers.co.uk
| richard@intellico-equipment.co.uk | 0800 074 8122 | 0787 854 900 HOTEL & HOUSEKEEPING MANAGEMENT 33
Intellico article DPS_jan.indd 3
25/01/2018 11:37
NEW RANGES FOR plus 2018 many more to come
contact our friendly sales team for more information & samples
HOTEL COMPLIMENTARY PRODUCTS LTD Mountfield House, Mountfield Industrial Estate, Mountfield Road, New Romney, Kent, TN28 8LH
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24/01/2018 11:52
AN AUTHENTIC TASTE OF SPAIN
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AD PAGE 17.indd 1
15/01/2017 18:54