Hotplate - October 2021 by Northern Ireland Hotels Federation

October 2021

HOSPITALITY HEROES ANNOUNCED ALSO IN THIS ISSUE Member News Revenue Management Post-COVID Staff Shortages and more...

HE21

Hospitality Exchange 2021 Crowne Plaza Belfast 12th & 13th October Hospitality Exchange is back - LIVE! Featuring chef Michael Wignall, lots of top international speakers, lunches, dinners and Paddy Raff! Find out more online. hospitalityexchange.org.uk

INSIDE HOTPLATE

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HOTEL & HOSPITALITY HEROES

REVENUE POSTCOVID

RECOGNISING THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE MANY WONDERFUL STAFF ACROSS OUR INDUSTRY OVER A VERY DIFFICULT TIME.

MEMBER NEWS

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HOSPITALITY EXCHANGE

HOSPITALITY & TOURISM COMMITMENT

WE’RE BACK - LIVE - WITH THE INDUSTRY’S MAJOR CONFERENCE. REGISTER NOW. P. 8

WHAT PRICES DO WE SET AND WHO DO WE TARGET? P. 14

What’s happening with hotel members refurbishments, appointments and more.

Now is the time to commit to changing the industry for the better.

P. 19 STAFF SHORTAGES Together with rising costs, this has been the number one topic over the summer.

P. 21 LICENSING LAW CHANGES Welcome changes to opening times and the removal of Easter restrictions.

P. 22 HOTPLATE Northern Ireland Hotels Federation The McCune Building, 1 Shore Road Belfast BT15 3PG Tel: 028 9077 6635 Web: nihf.co.uk Email: office@nihf.co.uk

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

fter a long and very busy summer, I hope that you are in good health despite the continuing challenges of restrictions, staff shortages and supply chain constraints. As winter approaches, thoughts turn to the coming year and the measures required to support us through leaner times. The NIHF will focus on three key areas: People, VAT and Business Rates. I think everyone was taken by surprise at the level of summer business and hopefully trade will remain buoyant for the remainder of 2021. Staffing has been the biggest issue; opening without all vacancies filled, a highly competitive labour market and concerns about the stability of the sector after prolonged lockdown all have had their toll. The Federation has been working with HATS, (Hospitality and Tourism Skills Collaborative Network) to explore measures to try and alleviate the situation. We would urge members to look at “Our Tourism and Hospitality Commitment” and adopt this voluntary set of principles. Industry image is concerning, and while there are many excellent employers in the sector, work needs to be done to highlight our ability to provide a sustainable career with good prospects. There will be a significant promotional careers campaign supported by Government under the auspices of Tourism Northern Ireland in the Autumn. If you sign up to HATS and the commitment, you will be kept up to date with progress and learn how you can be involved.

The battle to maintain the VAT rate remains a priority as we move from the current 5% rate to a reduced, but less favourable 12.5% until March 2021. Returning to the standard 20% in April would present a considerable challenge, particularly as our neighbours in the south will benefit from a 9% rate until September 2022. The Federation has written to the Chancellor and the Secretary of State as well as local MP’s and members of the Executive on this issue. I would urge members to lobby their MLAs and local MPs to press for the 12.5% to remain until the sector is restored to its former levels of trading. The business rates holiday was another meaningful support measure for the hotel sector. This ends in April 2022 but as a body, we feel it is important to raise the impact of the pandemic and lobby for a reduction for the coming year. There will be a revaluation of all non-domestic businesses for 2023 and this process will get underway in October when REVAL 2023 is rolled out by the LPS. Approaches to local MLAs and the Executive are part of our plan and members engaging with their local representatives would highlight the issue and help gain traction. I’m delighted to say that the Federation will stage Hospitality Exchange 2021 as a LIVE event! The programme has been created with three key themes: Reflect, Recruit and Restore. We will be celebrating the success we have had, looking at how we can rebuild for the future and exploring innovative ways to retain and attract people. All the details

STEPHEN MELDRUM President

are available on hospitalityexchange. org.uk. This year we will be recognising our people in the Hotel and Hospitality Heroes Awards lunch, and of course there’s the President’s Party, a wonderful finale and a great opportunity to reward your team. I hope to see you all there and have an opportunity to thank you for your continued support over the last year. If there are any issues you feel it is important for us to address, please do not hesitate to get in touch and we will be happy to explore your suggestions. I wish you all continued good health and hope to see you at the Crowne Plaza for Hospitality Exchange 2021!

HEROES

HEROES ALL THE FEDERATION IS RECOGNISING THE INCREDIBLE PEOPLE WHO HAVE KEPT THE INDUSTRY GOING OVER THE PAST 18 MONTHS .

After considerable interest and a strong entry, twenty-five hotel and hospitality heroes have been identified as part of a new initiative from the NIHF for 2021. They will be acknowledged at a special lunch hosted by Pamela Ballantine on Tuesday 12th October in the Crowne Plaza as part of this year’s Hospitality Exchange. The heroes are from a wide range of departments within hotel businesses; many perform roles that are not directly customer facing and it is an opportunity to recognise the important part that they play in ensuring the smooth running of the establishment. The hero programme included nominations from suppliers who have been of great support over the last eighteen months and the Federation is delighted to be able to acknowledge the contribution of several well know industry figures. Between them the heroes have nearly 300 years of service. Their knowledge, dedication and passion for the industry shone through in their individual entries with nominators describing them as inspirational, dedicated, and unflappable. They come from a diverse range of disciplines covering the many facets of the industry from sales, maintenance, housekeeping and even gardening. The awards lunch will be an excellent way to mark their contribution and highlight the importance of the hero in making each business a successful one! Please book your ticket for this event at hospitlaityexchange.org.uk

Boglarka Ligeti Asst Housekeeping Manager AC Marriott Hotel, Belfast

John McCrubb Night Manager Dunadry Hotel and Gardens

Marie Compier Head Housekeeper Armagh City Hotel

Stella Grant General Manager Dunsilly Hotel

Joanna Martin Manageress Brown Trout Golf & Country Inn

John Lindsay Maintenance Manager Etap Hotel Belfast

Samantha McMullan Receptionist Causeway Hotel

Aine Finnegan Executive Head Housekeeper Europa Hotel

Ian Lyttle Executive Chef Clandeboye Lodge Hotel

Soulef Bounaaja Executive Head Housekeeper Everglades Hotel

Anneka Allen Sales Manager Crowne Plaza Belfast

Rachael Keys Senior Client Services Executive For-Sight

John O’Doherty Barman Da Vinci’s Hotel

Nicky Blair Head Ground Person Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort

VAT

Damien McDonald Ops Manager Grand Central Hotel Alla Pahomova Housekeeping Manager Holiday Inn Belfast City Centre Damian Davidson Maintenance Assistant Ibis Belfast City Centre Michael Sheppard Trainee Manager Killeavy Castle Estate Joanne Boyle General Manager Marine Hotel Ballycastle Sharon Power-Cowley Sales Director Net Affinity Limited Kerrie McAllister Guest Service Agent Radisson Blu Hotel Belfast Ian Manson Sales Director Stephens Catering Equipment Frances Morton Housekeeping Supervisor The Malone Hotel Gillian Adams Executive Assistant The Merchant Hotel Derek Wylie Maintenance Manager White Horse Hotel

VAT RATE CONCERNS VAT RETURNING TO 20% NEXT SPRING IS OF MAJOR CONCERN TO THE INDUSTRY. The NIHF has lobbied for a reduced VAT rate for the hotel sector for the last two decades. The announcement by Chancellor Rishi Sunak that the sector would benefit from a 5% rate up to September 2021, moving to 12.5% from 1st October was greatly welcomed. Three lockdowns plus restricted trading means that hotels have only been able to benefit from the reduction for 224 days. Current policy would be for VAT to be restored to the standard level of 20% from 1st April 2022 which is causing considerable concern from the sector. With the escalating cost of energy, food inflation and wage pressures there are real concerns about a return to the 20% level. The situation for Northern Ireland is unique as we share a land border with the Republic of Ireland who have enjoyed a

reduced rate on hotel services since 1986. The current VAT rate south of the border is 9% which is guaranteed to be in place until September 2022. It may rise at that time but based on recent history is unlikely to rise much above 13%. This presents a considerable challenge in terms of competitiveness and fiscal stability. What the Federation is doing: •

• • •

Letter to the Chancellor urging him to continue with 12.5% rate until the end of mitigation and restoration of trade. Lobbying all MPS to support this measure and canvas the Treasury. Outlining the position to the NI Executive explaining the position. Quantifying the benefit of the lower rate and highlighting why it should continue.

MEMBER NEWS

EUROPA HOTEL. » Hastings Hotels is celebrating 50 years of the Europa Hotel. Opened in 1971 by Grand Metropolitan Hotels, the Europa was bought by the late Sir William Hastings in 1993. Originally built with 184 bedrooms, the hotel now boasts 272 and is undergoing a renovation programme.

NIHF MEMBER NEWS

KILLYHEVLIN HOTEL

HILTON TEMPLEPATRICK

OLD INN

The Killyhevlin Hotel is celebrating 45 successful years in business after a busy summer of staycations. Since taking ownership of Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel & Lodges, the Watson Family have committed to implementing a continuous improvement programme and recently completed a substantial project. The £1.5 million investment included the launch of six luxury Self-Catering Woodland Lodges, complete with private hot tubs, where guests can relax, whilst taking in the breath-taking views. The six new Woodland Lodges, complete with two en-suite bedrooms are high in demand. They come with a fully equipped kitchen, complimentary Wi-Fi and open plan lounge leading onto a private outdoor decking area with hot tub and patio furniture.

The firm behind Belfast’s Ten Square Hotel has acquired Templepatrick’s Hilton Hotel. Loughview Leisure Group has taken over the 200-acre hotel and golf resort and has plans to rebrand the site to DoubleTree by Hilton, which will be the first of its kind in NI. Among Loughview’s other hospitality sites are the Chimney Corner, and the Loughshore Hotel. Stephen Carson, Loughview Leisure Group Director of Operations, said: “We’re very glad to have secured the acquisition of The Hilton Templepatrick given its strategic location and its reputation as one of the favoured destinations in the Northern Irish hotel and golf scene. “We will continue to invest in the resort going forward and have exciting plans to reveal in the upcoming weeks.”

The Old Inn re-opened in September under the ownership of the Galgorm Collection. Guests and visitors can enjoy the new-look 1614 Bar whilst the refurbished 120-seater Old Inn restaurant offers diners a brand new menu that marries homely classics with modern dining, featuring French-inspired dishes, seafood and salads. Plans are currently under way to upgrade each of the hotel’s 32 individually-styled bedrooms, with junior suites incorporating bespoke finishing touches including a free-standing copper bath whilst the larger suite boasts its own private balcony complete with hot tub. Plans for a brand-new Tree Top Spa, featuring a variety of attractions including a vitality pool, two hot tubs, steam room and sauna and forest view relax space are also progressing.

THE HARRISON. » The Harrison Chambers of Distinction in Belfast has won an award in the National Geographic Traveller Hotel Awards 2021. The Harrison was named the top ‘On the Money’ award, an award that champions the hotels offering real bang for your buck. The judging panel praised the hotel and Melanie Harrison’s attitude and approach, saying: “Taking inspiration from her travels, she transformed a 19th-century merchant’s home near the city’s Botanic Gardens into a chic shrine to local authors, lavish antiques and frisky design. It’s a welcome, quirky addition to Belfast’s hotel scene: expect freestanding baths on reclaimed floorboards, rooms named for local heroes like C S Lewis and singer Ruby Murray and Bridgerton-style four poster beds beneath lush wallpapers.”

APPOINTMENTS

DA VINCI’S HOTEL

HILLYARD HOUSE

Da Vinci’s Village has launched 7 new self-contained studio apartments. The suites are luxurious in design and include super king size bed, designer sofa bed, rainfall shower & eco friendly toiletries. Contained within the suite is a kitchenette stocked with all the staycation essentials; fridge, kettle, toaster, microwave, sink, cutlery, crockery & glassware. The Da Vinci’s Village brand is being developed as a wider concept. In 2018 a £500,000 investment developed the former nightclub into Caterina’s Bistro. Within the hotel itself, the commitment to refurbish the remainder of all bedrooms has now been confirmed with an investment of £500,000 due to be completed by Q1 in 2022. This will mark a total property investment of £1 million within the last 5 years firmly establishing the Da Vinci’s Village as a landmark site within the city.

Hillyard House, has appointed one of the province’s most celebrated culinary pros, Will Brown, as head chef of its restaurant, The Yard. Will has crafted a menu rich in local produce that aligns with the Farm to Fork and Foraging Strategy that supports a truly sustainable food industry here, one that is kinder on the environment and celebrates the best food on our doorstep - supporting local suppliers and working with local people. Mr Brown will be supported by a team of twelve chefs and newly appointed General Manager Suzanne Kidd. Representing an investment of £3m, Hillyard House Castlewellan has created 11 fulltime and 26 part-time jobs. Its creation was supported by an offer of support of £300,000 by Invest Northern Ireland.

Taroon Misery has been appointed as the new General Manager of Holiday Inn Belfast City Centre.

HOSPITALITY EXCHANGE Hospitality Exchange 2021 will have three broad themes - Reflect, Recruit, Restore - and the programme opposite will set out to address these themes. You won’t find an exhibition at this year’s event but you will find plenty of inspiration from speakers that have been specially selected for their knowledge and passion. Book your tickets now for the first major live industry event in 18 months. Reflect We will look at the effects of the pandemic in broad terms including travel, consumer confidence and the re-shaping of the sector as it emerges from lockdowns. Recruit The need for the sector to attract new talent is vital as is retaining those within the industry and inspiring them with success stories.

Restore We’ll examine the actions required to set the industry back on the pathway to growth and what the “new customer” will be looking for.

with Paddy Raff

Delegate Lounge The Delegate Lounge at Exchange will have free tea, coffee and other refreshments throughout the two days so make sure you pop in at any time before or after your seminar. The President’s Party Get your glad rags on and join us for the finale of Hospitality Exchange. It’s time to party and we’ve Pamela primed and ready to go for this year’s black tie gala ball. Hospitality is all about coming together and after more than a year apart, we’ve a great evening lined up for you and your staff.

Join us for prosecco, pints and cocktails on

arrival followed by a sumptuous 5-course meal with fine wine. There’ll be music, laughter and maybe a special surprise guest. Book your tickets for the dinner and all of Hospitality Exchange at hospitalityexchange.org.uk now.

Programme Tuesday 12th October - Crowne Plaza Belfast Morning

Afternoon

People: Skills, Shortages & Solutions

The Awards Lunch Meet the stars of the show as we celebrate our people at this special lunch.

Pamela Ballantine welcomes delegates to this session on coping with the labour market. 10.00

13.00

Hoteliers Charter Sally Beck from the Royal Lancaster on her drive to improve industry image. The Chef Story Michael Wignall on his journey from BMX bikes to Michelin Star.

Hotel & Hospitality Heroes We’ll recognise those nominated for their outstanding contribution to the hospitality sector - from hotels to suppliers.

The Challenge Industry expert, Sean Wheeler, in conversation about people. The Labour Market Economist, Andrew Webb, on wage inflation and local employment.

The Solution Tim Browne explores staff engagement and other solutions. The Debate A short panel discussion on the staffing crisis facing the industry.

Supported by Bibendum Wines, Bunzl Rafferty Hospitality, Coca-Cola HBC NI and Sysco.

AGM Annual General Meeting for NIHF Members takes place at 15.00. 15.00

Members Only

Supported by Invest NI, Tourism Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland.

Wednesday 13th October - Crowne Plaza Belfast Morning

Restoring Tourism

Afternoon

Business Breakfast

Opportunities, economic outlook and the new Northern Ireland Brand.

Speaker Lunch

Hosted by Mark Simpson, join us for a session packed with data, details and discussion. And, a nice breakfast too! 8.00

Welcome from AIB Bank The Hotel Report NIHF will launch a new report on the 2021 industry position. The Data Sarah Duignan, STR, will look at industry performance in more detail. The Marketplace Tom Barrett on hotel sales and investments. Supported by AIB Bank, Savills and STR.

hospitalityexchange.org.uk

10.30

The Economic Outlook Neil Gibson, EY Chief Economist, on recovery of tourism. The Restoration Tourism chiefs, Niall Gibbons and John McGrillen on future success. The Success Story Michael Williamson, Director ASM, reflects on the sector’s growth prepandemic. The Industry Debate The expert panel considers how we need to move forward. Questions from the floor encouraged! Supported by ASM, RHM Commercial, Tourism Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland.

Gordon Lyons MLA, Minister for the Economy, on support for the sector and the Executive position on growing the economy with tourism. Supported by McKees Solicitors, Coca-Cola HBC NI, Henderson Foodservice and United Wines. 13.00

Evening The President’s Party A glittering gala evening with fine wine, great food and a few surprises along the way. Supported by Bunzl Rafferty Hospitality, Calor, Classic Drinks, Diageo, Coca-Cola HBC NI, PPL/PRS and SBD Events. 19.30

NI Reval2023

Rebalancing business rates During October, Land & Property Services will be in touch to invite you to complete a Rent and Lease questionnaire as part of NI Reval2023. It’s important you participate as your future business rates bills from April 2023 will be based on the information you provide.

For more information visit www.finance-ni.gov.uk/reval2023

TOURISM NEWS

OPEN RETURNS TO PORTRUSH IN 2025 DATES CONFIRMED FOR 13-20 JULY 2025.

MARKETING FUNDS NEW MARKETING FUNDS AND SPEND LOCAL PROMOTIONS

The Federation is continuing to work with Tourism Northern Ireland to help accommodation and visitor attraction providers recover business. The Open is set to make a triumphant return to Royal Portrush in 2025, marking an exciting new chapter in the history of golf’s original Championship and providing another outstanding showcase for golf in Northern Ireland. Following the success of The 148th Open at Royal Portrush in 2019, the First Minister for Northern Ireland Paul Givan MLA, Junior Minister Declan Kearney and Economy Minister Gordon Lyons joined Martin Slumbers, Chief Executive of The R&A, and Dr Ian Kerr, Captain of Royal Portrush Golf Club, at the renowned links on the Antrim coast to announce that the Championship will be played there from 13 – 20 July 2025. The Open generated more than £100 million for the economy of Northern Ireland two years ago, attracting a record attendance for the Championship outside of St Andrews of 237,750 fans throughout the week. More than 5,400 hours of television coverage were broadcast to hundreds of millions of viewers globally as Irishman Shane

Lowry performed superbly to become Champion Golfer of the Year and lift the famous Claret Jug. Dr Ian Kerr, Captain of Royal Portrush, said: “We are delighted to see the return of The Open to Royal Portrush Golf Club. This is one of the biggest sporting events in the world and to see it return to Northern Ireland and Royal Portrush so soon, is a recognition of the excellent work done by all involved in 2019. The Open in 2019 created a positive festival atmosphere in the area and we look forward to hosting this wonderful event once again.” An independent report produced by the Sport Industry Research Centre at Sheffield Hallam University found that The 148th Open delivered a direct economic impact of £45 million to the Northern Irish economy. An additional £37.3m of Advertising Equivalent Value (AEV) was generated by global television coverage and Tourism Northern Ireland assessed £23.7m AEV in other media coverage.

Following a successful Summer 2021 marketing campaign, TNI has launched a new Autumn campaign, initially running through to 19th November. This campaign includes TV and social media activity and the Federation is administering a fund to assist the industry with their own marketing push. A series of themed weeks will take place over the campaign. w/c 4th Oct - Derry~Londonderry w/c 11th Oct - Fermanagh & Tyrone w/c 18th Oct - Mournes & Strangford w/c 25th Oct - Causeway Coas w/c 1st Nov - Armagh & Down w/c 8th Nov - Belfast The Federation has also been promoting Members - running a week-long competition on Cool FM and Downtown radios and now out on social media encouraging the public to use their Spend Local vouchers in hotels.

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TOURISM IRELAND LAUNCHES £5M CAMPAIGN

£1M CONFERENCE SUPPORT SCHEME

NEW PROMOTIONAL BLITZ TARGETS TRAVELLERS IN GB FOR SHORT BREAKS AND HOLIDAYS IN NORTHERN IRELAND.

Northern Ireland’s Department for Economy today announced a £1 million conference support scheme to help secure more business events in Belfast, Derry and the region.

Tourism Ireland has launched a £5 million, multi-media promotional campaign, to boost travel to Northern Ireland from GB over the coming months. The campaign, which is running under the banner ‘Northern Ireland – Embrace a Giant Spirit’, will be seen by millions and will reach at least 80% of all adults in GB. It will generate demand now and drive bookings for short breaks and holidays in Northern Ireland. The extensive campaign will include advertising on major TV channels and on catch-up TV sites; digital outdoor advertising at more than 500 locations across GB; ads on popular digital and social channels; a partnership with The Guardian; as well as a busy programme of publicity. Co-operative promotions with air and sea carriers, as well as

online travel agents, are also under way. The Federation has also partnered with Tourism Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland to provide a co-operative marketing fund tartgetting the GB market. This fund runs through to March 2022 and is enabling accommodation providers and visitor attractions to advertise to this market directly. GB is an important market for tourism to Northern Ireland. Before COVID-19, in 2019, we welcomed almost 1.5 million GB visitors to Northern Ireland, whose visits generated £369 million in revenue.

The scheme will provide conference organisers with £50 for each out-of-state delegate to bring their association conference to the region, with awards ranging between £5,000 and £100,000 for all eligible events. Open to not-forprofit associations and organisations, bringing at least 100 out-of-state delegates, applications for conferences taking place from 2022-2030 are now open. The scheme is funded by Tourism Northern Ireland, Belfast City Council and Derry and Strabane District Council and delivered by Visit Belfast and Visit Derry.

REVENUE

REVENUE MANAGEMENT ADRIENNE HANNA ON THE POST-COVID REVENUE WORLD. Following the re-opening surge in demand, hoteliers are recovering from the operational challenges with staffing and supplies, and finally have some room to breathe and look at the final quarter of the year leading into 2022. Now is the time to determine how we will achieve our top line budget goals whilst we keep our bottom-line costs in check. Our Revenue Management strategy plays a key role here, but where do we start with this and how does revenue management look post-Covid? Advance Purchase Rates – what part do they now play in your rate strategy? Pre-Covid, advance purchase rates were part of our normal rate strategy. However, during Covid, many customers felt the sting of this policy, which in turn left the booker with a feeling of no confidence because of the inflexibility and the fear of losing money. Whilst some hotels have chosen to move away from advance purchase, you may wish instead to consider adapting your terms and conditions and offer partial refunds, or the option to change stay dates, providing the booker with more security and confidence when choosing this rate. Cancellation Policies & Short Lead Times Cancellations have been rising gradually in the years leading up to Covid. Following Covid, the industry must review cancellation policies to ensure we are both protecting our business, and allowing a chance to resell rooms. We must also ensure that any policy falls in line with our customer’s expectations and does not act as a deterrent. Guests are absolutely more sensitive of cancellation terms so we must ensure any policy is realistic in terms of both rebooking potential and it must be deemed fair and reasonable in the eyes of the customer.

Post-Covid, lead times have become much shorter and, whilst it is advantageous to have advance business on the books, this may no longer be a reality. It is tempting to drop our rate to entice last minute business when we see rooms still not sold with a week to go, but this is not recommended for every situation. We must remember our value position within our competitive set, and ensure our rates are reflective of this. Target markets With corporate and international travel not likely to resume until 2022, we must review our market segments to identify how we can replace this business in the short term. Domestic travel has been our main source of business this summer and we need to remain focused on sustaining this and ensuring our marketing keeps this sector in mind. Historically, properties which successfully emerged from periods of crisis, were diligent in reviewing their market segment mix to ensure that they did not put ‘all their eggs in one basket’. Now is a great time to review our own market segments to see what new markets we can develop and grow into. Looking at our packages and including options for local attractions and events is a great way of drawing in new customers and making our properties more enticing. This gives our customers another reason to choose our hotel. Total Revenue Management This is a term which has been around for a while, but hotels have often struggled with the concept. Historically we have been focused on room revenue management but now is the time to see where we can maximise incremental spend. In order to do this successfully, we need to create a revenue culture within our teams. Guarding the financial

ADRIENNE HANNA Right Revenue

targets needs to become a thing of the past and sharing such information with our teams helps to create a true revenue culture. Implementing an upselling/cross selling scheme within your property and incentivising the team will help you reach that common goal. Our 5 Top Tips: 1. Review your cancellation policies. 2. Short lead times – Hold your rate and keep your value positioning in mind. 3. Avoid OTA programmes like Booking.com’s genius. They dilute your rate and your profitability. 4. Review your market segments and your packages to make them attractive. Include options for local attractions highlighting things to do in your area. 5. Embrace total revenue management and a revenue culture. The results will see increased revenues and a happier and more engaged team. To find out how Right Revenue can help take the heavy-lifting from data tracking and help you maximise revenue, just ask@rightrevenue.co.uk

MUSIC

MUSIC LICENSING PPL PRS HAS COMBINED TWO LICENCES INTO ONE Since February 2018 PPL PRS has been issuing TheMusicLicence to businesses and organisations in the UK who play or perform music in public, transitioning all customers of PPL and PRS for Music from two separate licences to one, more straightforward, licence and process. The past 18 months have been difficult for most businesses; however, it could be argued that none have been hit harder than the hospitality sector over the course of the pandemic. During the period of lockdown PPL PRS, working with our parent companies PPL and PRS for Music, have supported all businesses which were unable to open, by not charging for TheMusicLicence for the period of closure. Furthermore, we incorporated a range of different options available to our customers based on circumstances, including the introduction of a payment plan suited to their needs. A move that was welcomed

by many customers who were faced with uncertainty and financial strain for an unknown period.

reduce stress, make people feel more comfortable and help people to feel more at ease.

As we look forward to a brighter 2022 your business may soon be back up and running but, understandably, it may not be quite back to normal just yet. Playing music is one way in which you could help get your business back to its best. Even small changes could make a big difference, and music could help enhance the atmosphere, lift the mood and create a more positive environment.

If you are going to introduce music, or if you are already using music in your business, you’ll usually need a music licence.

As we all know, protecting your employee’s mental health has never been more important and often the atmosphere of the workplace can go a long way to creating a more positive and appealing environment. Playing music can help with this by creating a more upbeat, friendly and familiar environment. It could help to

Under The Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988, permission is needed from the relevant copyright holders – those people who create music – in order to play or perform music in public. TheMusicLicence gives you this permission, in relation to the vast majority of commercially available music. This ranges from grassroots and independent artists and composers through to the biggest names in the business. So, while you are making all of the arrangements to get your business back to its best, now is the perfect time to turn the music back on and ensure you that you are appropriately licensed, and set up TheMusicLicence for your business.

It’s been nearly two decades since we began our journey as Classic Drinks – driven by a desire to pair great wine with top-class service for our customers. And while so much has changed since then, we are still dedicated to supporting our customers in the hospitality sector whose passion for great service is recognised throughout the world. We do this through our incredible curated range of drinks – one that’s made up of more than 700 wines and 1,200 spirits, beers and ciders, and is growing all the time. We do it by building close, personal relationships with our global network of producers, connecting our customers here in Ireland with access to the very best the world has to offer. We do it through our sales team, who share their unrivalled knowledge through staff training, menu creation, event planning, online ordering and after-sales care – all so our customers can deliver the very best for their guests. Ultimately, we do it by putting the customer experience first in everything we do. In 2019, we joined forces with Sysco – leveraging their global network and world-class technologies to provide a next-generation level of customer service and in 2020, we opened our services to the North of

Jonathan Grant

Business Development Manager Northern Ireland E: jonathan-grant@classicdrinks.com

T: +44 (0) 78 26 544285

Ireland. All while retaining our personal touch, our boots-on-the-ground relationships, and the same team who made us who we are today. At Classic Drinks, we’ve brewed up a storm, distilled what we do to a fine art, and aged like a fine wine along the way. That’s because it’s never been a job to us. It’s quite simply been a joy to serve

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PEOPLE

HOSPITALITY & TOURISM COMMITMENT NEW COMMITMENT TO SHOW INDUSTRY IS CHANGING FOR THE BETTER A new employer commitment has been launched today by leading hospitality and tourism operators in an endeavour to change the wider perception of the sector and commit industry to work together and become an ‘employer of choice’, providing good quality training, work-life balance and support to their people. Recruiting and retaining people has long been a challenge for the hospitality and tourism industry. The sector faces a number of misconceptions, such as low pay, long unsociable hours, limited opportunities to develop and not offering long-term careers. Compounding this challenge is the impact of COVID-19 and Brexit on the labour market, which means the industry is competing for talent in a smaller pool so businesses need to be highly effective and flexible in how they attract, engage and interact with their teams.

‘Our Hospitality and Tourism Commitment’ - a voluntary code of conduct developed by leading employers, colleges and industry partners - is being launched today by the Hospitality and Tourism Skills network [HATS]; an employer-led collaboration supported by Invest NI; in an attempt to combat these challenges. The ‘commitment’ covers critical areas, such as working hours and learning and development as well as a pledge to work collectively to promote the industry as a rewarding career choice. Ciaran O’Neill, chair of HATS said: “Many hospitality and tourism businesses are making fundamental changes to offer a different and better quality job experience. However, attempts to change the wider perception of the industry and to show that it is changing for the better can only be done if industry works together and commits to being an ‘employer of choice’, providing good quality training, worklife balance and support to their people.”

Judith Owens, member of the HATS executive and CEO of Titanic Belfast added: “Our Hospitality and Tourism Commitment is critical if we want to retain people in the industry. Work life balance, development and wellbeing support are basic needs that all people require today. These have to be part of the day-to-day ways of working if we want to ensure we retain talent today and for tomorrow.” David Roberts, Director of Strategic Development Tourism NI, welcomed the initiative: “I commend today’s launch of a voluntary code of conduct for the tourism and hospitality industry which will boost the message that the sector is a positive career choice. Attracting and building a skilled and sustainable workforce is key to ensuring that tourism can recover and return to the levels of success achieved in the years up to 2019.”

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STAFFING

Webb Wonders

Musings from the Federation’s Economic Advisor

STAFF SHORTAGES ANDREW WEBB WONDERS ARE WE RESIGNED TO STAFF SHORTAGES? I’m hearing more about ‘The Great Resignation’ that is gripping the world economy as people reassess priorities and what matters most. There is also an element of people reassessing their risk appetite post pandemic. The psychological impact of being Furloughed for long periods, or being at work with vastly reduced custom, can only prompt a rethink about the sector you’re working in. Backing this ‘Great Resignation’ idea up, a new study has found 42% of Irish workers intend on resigning within the next 12 months – a figure that has jumped from 21% prior to the Covid-19 pandemic. The Workhuman Fall 2021 International Survey Report tracked 3,500 employees in Ireland, the US, Canada and the UK and found that Irish people are not alone in wanting to hand in their notice. Some 48% of people in the UK have plans to quit. The drive for a new job has been spurred on by a desire for better pay and greater flexibility. For women, pay was a key issue with

36% saying their reason for wanting to move jobs was that their salary was too low. This compared to just under a quarter of men (24.5%). Some 36% of men said that more flexibility was their main reason for seeking change, compared to 27% of women.

qualification and secure guaranteed employment in one of NI’s top hotels. This sounds like a great initiative but what if the demand for places doesn’t materialise, given the issues noted above? Should we just resign ourselves to reduced staff shortages?

The hospitality sector here has long struggled to attract staff. A quick online search on the topic throws up a multitude of articles stretching back years that reference ‘dramatic drops in numbers’ across key roles and concerns about recruitment. Most recently, the Irish News has reported that 74% of NI’s hospitality sector continues to struggle with staffing issues, with these issues having been intensified by the pandemic.

Obviously not, and some serious thought is required about terms and conditions in the sector, to ensure it is attractive. Thought should also be given to how the sector can use technology to solve staffing shortages. It could be time to hire Rosie the maidbot, Connie the Concierge or Dash the delivery bot or Yobot the luggage hander! While the human interaction is a key part of what makes our hospitality sector special, there is a definite place for investing in robotics to share the load. We don’t have to resign ourselves to staffing shortages. The bots are ready to charge.

Up until now, the main way to approach solving this issue has been through staff attraction and training initiatives. An excellent example is the Northern Ireland Hospitality School which is funded by the Gallaher Trust and offers enrollers the chance to gain a hospitality

LEGAL UPDATE

LICENSING LAWS

HOTELS LOOK FORWARD TO RELAXATION OF LICENSING LAWS. Hotels across Northern Ireland are preparing to welcome a major change to licensing laws from 1st October and Belfast-based commercial law firm, McKees, has reviewed some of the changes and what this will mean for hoteliers. In what has been described as the biggest change to our licensing laws in a generation, hotels will be able to enjoy: • Extended opening hours until 3am. • New Easter opening hours – Easter drinking restrictions to be lifted. • Drinking up time extended to an hour from half an hour previously. Andrea McCann, Partner of McKees said: “It is hoped that the modernisation of the local liquor licensing laws will allow Northern Ireland to align its licensing laws with similar economies. The hospitality sector will be able to provide events for longer hours for a number of occasions each year. Removing the restrictions on alcohol sale at Easter brings a more up-to-date position for the sector. “The addition of the new category of license for local distilleries and breweries recognises local businesses who have produced and distributed their products for many years here in Northern Ireland. This gives recognition to the heritage of the industry and its huge role in the Northern Ireland economy. “Cinemas are to be added to the category of premises which can now apply for a

liquor licence. This seems likely to alter the social dynamic and may encourage some previous cinemagoers back, following the recent trend in at-home streaming services for film and television putting the film industry under threat,” Andrea continued, “The Licensing and Registration of Clubs (Amendment) Act (Northern Ireland) 2021, will be stricter on selling alcohol via self-service or vending machine. The changing nature of the way consumers shop e.g. online, are viable concerns in the sale of alcohol So it is encouraging to see that the legislation deals with these new challenges.

ANDREA MCCANN McKees

relaxation of previously stricter controls on opening hours while adjusting the Act for the new age consumer.

“The health and wellbeing of consumers is also covered in the Act and includes the introduction of stricter controls on advertising of alcohol promotions in supermarkets and prohibition of loyalty schemes in which alcohol is purchased. It is hoped that these restrictions will encourage consumers to purchase only what they intend to when shopping in the supermarket. This may help to build on a healthy and balanced approach to alcohol consumption.

“Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the hospitality sector has suffered huge financial loss and a lot of uncertainty and so it is hoped that this Act offers a form of assistance in its recovery and allows for some welcome diversification in the sector. This is an innovative and exciting time for the industry and the various sectors which will benefit from this update on the current legislation,” Andrea added.

“The revamp of this law will undoubtedly modernise the way liquor licensing operates in Northern Ireland. It recognises the change in the way people choose to socialise and celebrate and these changes are also set to support the tourism that Northern Ireland has attracted and welcomed in recent years, allowing businesses to enjoy the

McKees was established in 1887 and employs 58 staff in its Belfast and London offices. The firm’s Hospitality and Leisure Team understands the challenges that businesses face in such a heavily regulated sector and offers legal experts from across a range of specialisms including employment, financial, dispute resolution, obtaining liquor licenses and property.

HE21 24

Hospitality Exchange 2021 Crowne Plaza Belfast 12th & 13th October

Michael Wignall

Hospitality Exchange is back - LIVE! It’s still the event for everyone who works in the hospitality industry and it takes place in the Crowne Plaza Belfast on 12th & 13th October. Whether you own, manage or work in a hotel, B&B, pub, restaurant, museum, airline or coffee shop, Hospitality Exchange is where you need to be! This year, more than ever, we need to come together and celebrate all that is great about hospitality.

Sarah Duignan

Sean Wheeler

Sally Beck

Tim Browne