Hotplate - September 2022

September

HOSPITALITY EXCHANGE

DON’T MISS NEXT MONTH’S PACKED CONFERENCE. FULL DETAILS INSIDE.

PLUS HOW TO SURVIVE BUDGET SEASON

HOLIDAY PAY CHANGES

MEMBER NEWS

ECONOMICS

HOSPITALITY EXCHANGE RISING STARS ANNOUNCED

FULL PROGRAMME FOR NEXT MONTH’S CONFERENCE IN THE CROWNE PLAZA WITH GUEST CHEF, JOSE PIZARRO.

P. 12

THE TOP 10 HOSPITALITY STARS FOR 2022

P. 7

MEMBER NEWS

Celebrations and refurbishments from members across the country.

P. 6

BUDGET BEWARE

How to draw up a budget in uncertain times and avoid the common pitfalls.

P. 16

HOLIDAY PAY

Recent court ruling changes how you calculate holiday pay for casual staff.

P. 26

STAFFING CRISIS

Andrew Webb on finding a job in 2022.

P. 23

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

After three turbulent years, my term as President of the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation is coming to an end. When I was elected in October 2019, the industry was a buoyant one, with growth predicted and a record breaking one-billion-pound year on the horizon. The industry did break that billion-pound barrier but the onset of the COVID19 pandemic, with lockdowns, restrictions and closures over a two-year period, overshadowed this milestone achievement and has taken its toll on us all.

We live in different times and as I look back, I’m immensely proud of the resilience hoteliers have shown since March 2020. I know that challenges remain and would like to wish all our members, suppliers and the wider hospitality sector all the best for the months ahead and thank them for their support over the last three years. We have weathered storms before and I believe that our strength lies in continuing to work together, lobbying for a better business climate for all. The Federation has pressed for support with energy bills, a reduction in rates and a revised immigration policy to help address the current labour market issues. Support for energy costs is on the way, and rates are being discounted for a three-year period based on new 2023 valuations. However, the issue of people remains a huge problem for businesses as they seek to restore profitability and return to normal trading.

Attracting people, engaging with them, and retaining skilled workers is something that the Federation has been working with through the HATS collaborative network. Highlighting the diversity of roles, career progression and opportunities the sector has to offer is important. Job security has proved a motivating factor in attracting and retaining staff. Outlining challenges is important but we should also note the strength of the sector and its role as a key economic driver should not be underestimated. My message would be that there are secure positions available today and real opportunities for tomorrow.

People are a key topic for Hospitality exchange 2022 and the programme is included in this edition of Hotplate. We’ll also be looking at the future of the sector, sustainability and of course, I’m delighted that this year we will be able to network and meet friends old and new (and even dance!) Book your place online today at hospitalityexchange.org. uk and don’t forget to use your member discount for even better value!

I hope I will get the opportunity to see you over the course of the two days. Despite the unprecedented nature of my time as President, it’s been an honour to represent you all, and I wish you healthy and happy times ahead.

STEPHEN MELDRUM President

PREDICTION PREDICAMENT

JANICE GAULT LOOKS AT THE LATEST HOTEL DATA.

The summer of 2022 has proved an interesting one with hotel performance holding up and good occupancy in most regions. However, the August data just released by STR shows a fall in room rate in all areas except for Belfast whose rate held due to a strong events calendar, buoyant leisure travel and the return of international tour visitors.

Reports from the sector suggest that demand was even more last minute than ever, with significant on-the-day pick up a common occurrence. Price sensitivity is impacting on bookings and with VAT now at 20% price flexing and maintaining profit have proved to be a greater challenge.

The year-to-date figures for 2022 and comparisons back to 2019 are much more telling. In 2019, occupancy up to August was 72.4%, a fall from the 2018 figure of 75.4%. Average Room Rate (ADR) was more or less on par between the two years at £79.43 and £79.66 respectively. A reduction in occupancy was not unexpected in 2019 as a large amount of new supply came into the market over the year.

While historical data has its place, it isn’t really providing solid information on which to forecast or budget. Performance indications for 2022 have been based on 2019 figures with an overlay of new market intelligence which is very fluid. Data up to August this year has occupancy sitting at 70.2%. On the face of it this is pacing well but there are concerns about the coming months which traditionally see a fall off in trade. The last quarter is usually weaker than quarters two and three. Uncertainty is impacting all sectors of the economy with hotels, hospitality and other discretionary spend likely to reduce with growing pressures on the consumer’s pay packet.

The current cost of living crisis is already starting to chip away at consumer confidence and with rising costs across the board, businesses are trying to balance offering value while remaining viable. After two difficult years, a restriction free winter may be on the cards which may prove very appealing to customers. They may decide to splurge for the rest of 2022 and scrimp in 2023.

JANICE GAULT Chief Executive

Forecasting the final year results is a predicament influenced by factors that have never been in place before. Uncertainty creates a difficult dynamic for all. However, as we look forward it’s important to remember that this time last year things were far from easy; restrictions were in place, COVID19 passports were required with dancing not permitted. The mood music may have changed but the hotel sector is still standing and adapting to a different tune.

“The time savings we’ve accrued have freed up resources to focus on value generation, idea creation and innovation, allowing our finance professionals to move away from number crunching to become value creators.

Sam Hartley, Finance Director, Dakota Hotels

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TITANIC HOTEL BELFAST

»Titanic Hotel Belfast is celebrating its fifth birthday this month, and the longest serving staff member General Manager, Adrian McNally, is proud to have retained a quarter of the hotel’s original staff since day one.

NIHF MEMBER NEWS

RADISSON BLU BELFAST

The Radisson Blu Belfast is currently undergoing a refurbishment plan of all bedrooms in 2022/ early 2023. The plans will deliver guests a memorable, stylish and purposeful bedroom offering. Guests will experience a unique sense of place with specially curated local Belfast photography from years gone by.

The hotel opened in 2004 and is proud to bring the next chapter of Radisson Blu to the city of Belfast. Alongside the updated product offering, staff will continue to excel at delivering our “Every Moment Matters” brand promise and “Yes I Can” service philosophy.

The Europa Hotel celebrated the 50th anniversary of Lady Mary Peters winning gold at the Munich Olympic Games by hosting a joint afternoon tea and taking a walk down memory lane with Northern Ireland’s much-loved athlete.

The event took place in September and guests enjoyed a 70’s themed afternoon tea, hosted by the BBC Sport’s Nicola McCarthy, as Lady Mary stepped back into the seventies and relived her favourite Golden Years memories as she was joined by a host of special guests. There was also live music from the Abba Tribute: Lovelight, a ballot and special Hastings Golden Ducks signed by Lady Mary. The proceeds raised will benefit the Mary Peters Trust.

Bodyscape Health Club, located at the Crowne Plaza, Belfast, has opened a state-of-the-art CryoSpa unit to providing ice bath therapy.

The CryoSpa unit is designed and manufactured by local firm CET CryoSpa, located in Dromore, which supplies CryoSpa to professional sports teams and elite sports facilities worldwide.

Simon Millar, manager of Bodyscape Health Club, said ‘’The CryoSpa Sport offers optimum ice bath therapy and has proven to be an integral part of recovery strategy for many athletes, accelerating recovery, minimising fatigue, and lowering the risk of injury.’’

CROWNE PLAZA BELFAST

EUROPA HOTEL

RISING STARS ANNOUNCED

The Rising Stars in alphabetical company order:

1. David McMullan, Food & Beverage Manager, Best Western Plus White Horse Hotel, Derry-Londonderry

2. Katie Beaton, Assistant Conference & Banqueting Manager, Bishop’s Gate Hotel, Derry-Londonderry

3. Pedro Silva, Restaurant Manager, Bullitt Hotel, Belfast

The Northern Ireland Hotels Federation is delighted to announce the lucky recipients of a Rising Star Award for 2022.

The winners were nominated by hotels and accommodation providers who recognise these individuals career progression to date, their contribution to each business and their future career trajectory.

Stephen Meldrum, President of Northern Ireland Hotels Federation, said: “Attracting talented people is an integral part of the hotel’s sector success and I think we have all recognised the growing importance of their contribution. This is an industry with incredible opportunities and one where you can progress through the ranks, gaining experience and qualifications along the way.

“It is vital that we highlight this along with the diversity of roles, transferable skills, and a well renumerated career path. Without skilled and dedicated staff, we would struggle to deliver a great customer experience and engage with guests.”

He added: “The Federation has rebranded its suite of rewards under the Key Awards umbrella, with each category recognising and rewarding the excellent people we employ. People are without doubt the key to our success and the new rising star category seeks to highlight those who have shown dedication to date and who have much to contribute to the future.

“The ten stars are representative of the diversity of opportunities available, covering everything from reception to housekeeping, and digital management. There was an exceptionally high standard and I congratulate all those who have been recognised as a rising star. I look forward to acknowledging their achievement at a special lunch hosted by Pamela Ballantine on Tuesday 11th October in the Crowne Plaza Belfast as part of the 23rd Hospitality Exchange.

The Rising Stars were nominated by their businesses. Each nomination was assessed by three independent judges to arrive at the ten stars awarded. The nominee and their nominator will each receive a complimentary ticket to the Award’s Lunch at Hospitality Exchange on 11th October.

4. Seamus Morgan, Bar Manager, Canal Court Hotel, Newry

5. Aaron Quigley, Bar Manager, Da Vinci’s Hotel, Derry-Londonderry

6. Yasmine Peacock, Front Office Shift Leader, Fitzwilliam Hotel, Belfast

7. Helen Carton, Supervisor, Fullerton Arms, Ballintoy

8. Megan Wright, Group Revenue Manager, Galgorm Collection, Ballymena

9. Matthew McRoberts, Digital Marketing Manager, Hastings Hotel Group

10. Jordan Sloan, Assistant Bar Manager, Titanic Hotel, Belfast

THE CLIMATE HAS CHANGED. WHEN WILL WE?

AIB is the rst Irish bank to pledge to operate as carbon neutral by 2030. By adopting a net zero approach, we’re reducing emissions to help ght climate change.

It’s one of the ways we’re doing less of the things that damage and drain the environment, and more of the things that don’t.

9

DEAR PRIME MINISTER

FEDERATION CALLS FOR INDUSTRY SUPPORT FOR VAT, PEOPLE AND COST OF DOING BUSINESS.

After a summer of political turmoil, Liz Truss has won the Tory vote and is new British Prime Minister. As she moves into Number 10 Downing Street, hoteliers are keen to see political stability as well as support for the industry on a national level, and the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation has written to the new Prime Minister as she starts her term of office.

Stephen Meldrum, President of the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation, says: “The election of Liz Truss as Leader of the Conservative Party, and her appointment as Prime Minister, brings an interesting and uncertain summer to an end. The Federation welcomes the political stability and hopes that she will be in a position to resolve the local political stalemate.

“The hotel and wider tourism sector were well supported through the COVID-19 pandemic but we are now facing an uncertain future. Business has held up well over the summer months with staycations, return of international travel and a reawakening of business travel.

“However, local political turmoil places Northern Ireland in a difficult position. Global forces beyond the control of any individual business or sector are affecting us all and while it is imperative that the Executive is restored as soon as possible, the issues facing hotels will require intervention at a national level. The Federation welcomes the political stability and hopes that she will be in a position to resolve the local political stalemate”.

He continues: “The NIHF is keen to see a VAT reduction for the sector. A return to the 5% rate of 2021 would help hotels and the wider sector cope with

NEW ROLE

AC BY MARRIOTT BELFAST

the current rising cost base and help the industry return to 2019 levels of business.

“The lack of people available to take up vacancies has been an issue for the entire business community and a simplified and expedient Immigration process would be of benefit to business UK wide.

“The issue of energy costs has been amplified over the last number of weeks and as winter approaches the issue can only be exacerbated. Urgent policies to address the energy crisis appear to be high up the agenda and, if the current rhetoric is to be believed, will be addressed as a priority.

Interstate Hotels has appointed Paula Stuart to the position of General Manager of the AC by Marriott Belfast. Paula was previously General Manager of the Hilton Templepatrick and held senior positions in the Conrad Dublin and the Berkeley Court Hotel.

Former General Manager, Malcolm Allan, has moved to a group role with Interstate as Director of Operations and Quality.

SCHOOL SUMMIT

HATS PROMOTING TOURISM

be in place until 2023. Based on previous policy our trading neighbours are likely to continue to

destination. Those trading in the Republic of Ireland benefit from a 9% VAT rate which will

avail of a reduced rate in the region of 13% well beyond this date. This situation results in a

competitive disadvantage to hotels and the wider tourism sector in Northern Ireland which we

believe places us at a considerable disadvantage and could adversely affect the road to recovery. been achieved.

The VAT reduction to 5% in response to industry recovery after the first lockdown was a lifeline and Secondly, people and a shortage of workers has impacted many sectors and the hotel industry is no

we would ask that this rate is reintroduced for the entire sector until full recovery has exception. We would like to see an amended immigration policy that recognises roles within the

sector as highly skilled which in turn puts them on the government s eligible occupations listing. For

accommodation businesses to recruit successfully in the global labour marketplace, visas

applications and the sponsorship process require simplification with a consideration given to non-

nationals currently employed in the Republic of Ireland with a reduction in those subjected to the

immigration skills charge. Finally, the industry is also experiencing unparalleled rises in the cost of doing business: energy

costs have soared and, in some cases, quadrupled. There is double-digit ood inflation with

alternative energy sourcing would help address some of the current difficulties.

additional transport costs driving up the overall cost of consumables. Hotels have been able to

absorb a portion of these to date but assistance by way of energy capping or schemes to support

The HATS network and NIHF will be at the School Summit in early October to promote the hospitality industry to up to 6,000 school children. A number of members will be attending to support the stand and engage with the pupils.

MARINE HOTEL

MARINE HOTEL BALLYCASTLE EXPANDS TO 51 BEDROOMS IN LATEST £1.5MILLION INVESTMENT

In November 2021, the £1.5million project began with construction work taking place to build onto the existing hotel. The hotel has now become one of the largest on the Causeway Coast.

The expansion of ten new bedrooms has included six new Family Suites, two double rooms and two accessible rooms.

Each of the family suites include a smart television to keep the kids entertained and they have their own space in a separate bunk room.

ARMAGH DODGEBALL

Hannah Catterall, from the Housekeeping Department of the Armagh City Hotel, represented Team GB in Dodgeball at the World Championships in Canada at the end of August. Hannah trained hard with hotel Fitness Manager, Ildie McGeown, who has previously coached Irish Olympic Teams in handball. Hotel Manager, Henk, was delighted to sponsor the kit for Hannah’s team, the Ballyhackmore Barbarians for the championships.

ARMAGH CITY HOTEL HOUSEKEEPER COMPETES AT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

HOSPITALITY EXCHANGE

Big issues, hot topics and lively discussion are all on the agenda at Hospitality Exchange 2022. After a turbulent two years, it’s great to have an exceptional speaker lineup to focus on the issues affecting the industry!

People are a central theme of Hospitality Exchange. This along with industry restoration, recovery and sustainability form the framework for the conference programme.

Gareth Hetherington, Director, Ulster University Economic Policy Centre has been working on a specially commissioned study about The Labour Market from a hotel and wider industry perspective which he will present as part of the People Power session. Gareth has used his considerable local knowledge as well as data gleaned from local businesses to create a presentation that highlights constraints, challenges and the supports required to address the challenges of post pandemic employment.

Dr Paul Redmond returns to Northern Ireland to bring us his

highly informative vision of the future of work. He’ll be talking zombie’s (hopefully there’ll not be an invasion

11th & 12th OctOber crOwne Plaza belfast

exercised everyone’s minds over the last year, and as we look towards recovery and restoration, there’s lots on the 2022 programme to inform and inspire

on the day) and how to engage with a multi-generational workforce. Famed for his tips on communication, Paul’s enthusiastic approach will instil a passion that you never thought possible for the people problems you face daily.

Davina Saint shares thoughts on retention, recruitment, and the need for work life balance as we strive to create a sustainable workforce. An insightful presentation from a champion of diversity with some interesting anecdotes along the way.

The future of the industry has

It’s all about the data as Sarah Duignan, Director of Client Relationships STR, reveals where’s hot and what’s not unravelling the nuances on hotel performance, recovery around the globe and thoughts on the year ahead. Come along and see how your business measures up as we take a deep dive into the Northern Ireland hotel market, a must attend session for operators, suppliers and supporters of the sector.

Michael Williamson, Consultant, ASM Belfast, combines experience with expertise in his session on cost control with a presentation designed to help businesses navigate turbulent times and fiscal challenges. Content that includes cost free solutions, measuring performance and emphasis on taking control will resonate well with those trying to cope with an everchanging cost base.

After turbulent times will more “For

Sale” signs start to appear? Neal Morrison, Director Savills, joins this year’s line-up to give his thoughts on selling, valuations, and the current commercial position. Recent sales and big-ticket prices in the local market have caused a bit of a stir and he has his finger on the pulse of the local market.

A large part of the success of the sector has been a buoyant staycation market, the use of digital technology and the adoption of new communication techniques.

Pól Ó Conghaile, award winning travel writer, analyses the effect of two successful staycation summers, and ponders on the future of this phenomenon, its potential for growth and the challenge of keeping staying at home fresh and interesting. As choice grows will demand fall? Come along and hear what the sector can do to maintain local business.

Making digital deliver, understanding data, and providing a personalised experience may seem overwhelming but Caroline Dunlea, CEO Core Optimisation, will walk delegates through this virtual world using examples drawn from her extensive knowledge of the sector. A big investment but those who’ve spent well are reaping the benefits of being on and open twenty-four hours a day.

Sustainability isn’t a buzz word, it’s now an integral part of doing business and runs through all elements of the 2022 programme from staffing to promotion. This year, we’ve gone ticket free, moved to a digital programme and are keeping an eye on food waste.

Mick Boyle, the Founder & Managing Director of Killeavy Castle Estate, is a man with a vision and a commitment to sustainability. He restored and created Killeavy Castle Estate using drones to monitor its progress from his home in Australia. The operation has expanded to include a farm, a garden

to supply produce and the planting of a native deciduous forest in a bid to achieve a carbon neutral operation. Mick Boyle speaks about his global career, building better communities, the founding of Killeavy Castle Estate and its legacy.

Talking Tourism

It’s always good to talk and at Hospitality Exchange 2022, we have three great panels lined up.

Michelin v Microwave

Guest Chef, Jose Pizarro, will be joined by acclaimed Irish Chef, Noel McMeel all the way from Lough Erne Resort and Food Critic, Joris Minne. On the menu, as they talk with Tim Browne will be the future of food, staffing challenges and the need for sustainable trading.

Skills Solutions

Industry initiatives, sector image and collaborative working are on the agenda for this panel firmly focused on addressing the skills crisis. Denyse Campbell, IHF President, brings her passion for hotels and first-hand knowledge of opportunities to the table.

inside track on current issues, possible solutions and best practice from abroad.

The Industry Debate

Tourism and hospitality is a myriad of businesses woven together to make a great destination and we’ve brought together a panel who understand the travails of travel, levers for growth and the multifaceted nature of the sector. The discussion will be animated, informative and hopefully interactive as you’ll come along and ask a question on the day.

As an island, it’s imperative that we have good transport links. Steve Frazer, MD at City of Derry Airport, brings over three decades of aviation experience as well as an understanding of the need for regional connectivity to the panel. A real passion for tourism and events is the foundation for Judith Owen’s successful career which includes managing the award-winning Titanic Belfast, and chairing NITA. Her breadth of vision and experience will bring a multifaceted dimension to the panel line-up. Economist, Andrew Webb has extensive experience in economic and business development along with a good working knowledge of government which will bring a commercial awareness to tackling economic recovery and industry restoration.

No Hospitality Exchange line up would be complete without an insight from Tourism Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland. Niall Gibbons and John McGrillen will talk with compere Mark Simpson on thoughts for the year ahead, opportunities in the post pandemic era and challenges on the horizon.

Ionnais Pantelidis blends his operational knowledge and educational expertise to give his expert opinion on the future. A combination of over twenty years’ experience in skills, an in-depth knowledge of policy and training coupled with her role as project director of the HATS collaborative network, gives Roisin McKee the

Don’t forget you’ll have the chance to pose your own question when we open the panel sessions up to the audience.

Book your tickets now at:

hospitalityexchange.org.uk

PrOgramme

tuesday 11th OctOber - crOwne Plaza belfast

Morning People Power

Exploring the staffing challenge, industry issues and inspiration for the future compered by Tim Browne.

10.00 £ 40

The Labour Market

Economist Gareth Hetherington outlines risks, constraints and challenges from the NIHF commissioned industry survey.

Career Paths

Chef José Pizarro on his life from dentistry to a culinary empire.

Michelin v Microwave

Panel discussion on industry diversity and innovative staffing solutions.

discOunt cOde: hOtPlate12

Wellbeing

The team at Bird in a Tree give tips on self-care for you and your teams.

Work v Life

Davina Saint, on the benefits of a sustainable work life balance.

Skill Solutions

Discussion on industry initiatives, collaborative networks and altering the sector’s image.

Zombie Jobs

Dr Paul Redmond on the future of work; a rewarding career or a robotic role.

Supported by Calor, Invest NI, Reliance Recruitment, Tourism Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland.

Just head to the Eventbrite Ticket page and enter this code to access the discounted Member rates. All Hotplate readers are eligible to use these rates.

wednesday 12th OctOber -

Morning

Business Breakfast

A hearty start to the day with a big breakfast and business update hosted by veteran journalist, Mark Simpson.

08.00 £ 30

Hotel Performance & Forecast

STR data, detail and a dive into the future with Sarah Duignan.

Sales & Valuation

Savills’ hotel specialist, Neal Morrison, on the current marketplace.

Cost Control

Michael Williamson, ASM, on coping with rising costs, inflation and budgeting.

Supported by AIB Bank, ASM, Percipient, Savills and STR.

hospitalityexchange.org.uk

Additional Support

crOwne Plaza belfast

Industry Outlook

Staycations, digital communciaton and the economic outlook.

10.30 £ 30

Staycation Salvation

Award winning travel journalist, Pól Ó Conghaile, asks the big question - can we continue to grow?

Business Outlook

Challenges and opportunities with a Tourism Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland perspective.

The Digital Dilemma

Caroline Dunlea, CEO of Core Optimisation, on digital transformation, data utilisation and industry challenges.

The Industry Debate

An industry panel on economic impact and restoration.

Supported by Tourism Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland.

Afternoon

The Key Awards Lunch

Hosted by Pamela Ballantine, a new initiative to recognise industry talent and reward stellar performance.

13.15 £ 50

Rising Stars

A celebration of talent rising through the ranks and acknowledging their contribution to the future of the sector including a welcome address by Gordon Lyons MLA, Minister for the Economy.

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

AGM

Annual General Meeting for NIHF Members takes place at 15.30.

15.30 £ Free to Members

Afternoon

Speaker Lunch

Mick Boyle, the Australian visionary behind Killeavy Castle Estate, on restoration, sustainability and creating a legacy.

Supported by McKees Solicitors, Coca-Cola HBC NI and Henderson Foodservice.

13.00 £ 50

Evening

The Gala Ball

A glittering gala evening with fine wine, great food and a few surprises along the way.

Supported by Bunzl Rafferty Hospitality, Classic Drinks, Coca-Cola HBC NI, Diageo, Linencare, Percipient and SBD Events.

19.30 £ 99

Bunzl McLaughlin, Classeq, Hobart, Stephens Catering Equipment, Visit Belfast, Winterhalter. Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council, Ards & North Down Borough Council, Belfast City Council, Fermanagh & Omagh District Council, Newry, Mourne & Down District Council. Media Partner: Licensed and Catering News

thanks

The companies below have kindly provided sponsorship and support to Hospitality Exchange.

BUDGET BEWARE

HOW TO SURVIVE BUDGETING SEASON IN AN UNCERTAIN WORLD

Well, it is that time of the year again and although many of us are old enough to have gone through several recessions, times of conflict and serious economic challenges, I doubt any of us have seen these three challenges rolled into one perfect storm.

Let’s focus on the good news for a moment… Many of us were clever over lockdown and banked reserves when we could. We have had two strong Staycation years and whether the press want us to believe it or not, there is still a strong desire by our customers to travel, to have experiences and to spend their well-earned cash. Add that to the fact that many locations have multiple hotels full of humanitarian guests, we often see cities with over 40% of total bedroom stock removed from sale, pushing rates and demand higher than any of us expected. But the big question for all of us is ‘what will winter bring?’ My advice… budgets need to be considered… carefully:

• Your ADR will change. Business is better done face to face (we all know that) so as companies struggle to stand-out, you will see clever businesses re-focusing on face-toface meetings. Corporate business will come back but along with that, we need to consider a drop in ADR. Occupancy may remain steady but be prepared to rein-in your financial forecast.

• Be aware of your costs. Your cost base has changed significantly over the past few years and before you can start to sell rates, you need to understand how much your business is actually costing you to

bring in. Work out your Cost of Occupied Room.

• Understand profitability. Are you a ‘busy fool’??? Your wonderful sales and marketing team and even your digital marketing team will be pushing for packages and rates to help fill need dates (which they absolutely should be doing) but are those rates actually profitable?

• Dropping rates does not stimulate demand. You just get the same demand at a lower price point! Make sure you understand the impact of rate changes and how much business you actually need to gain, to make the same profit.

• Invest in tech. Never, ever, ever has there been a better time to invest in technology. You have fewer team members, sharing more roles and the only way to not only support them but to enable them to do their job better is to invest in technology. I promise this will save you more than you know.

• Forecasted demand matters. Make great decisions based on forecasted demand and not Business on the Books. Your sales strategy needs to be clever and that means understanding your future pace and setting rates on where you know you will get to, and not where you are now.

But my strongest piece of advice is solving a problem that is right in front of you… reduce the commission you pay to OTA’s. While everyone is looking at costs increasing, only the most strategic hoteliers are actually looking at the costs draining right out of their business. I can take an educated guess that one of the

biggest costs in Rooms Division are the commission cheques you write to the OTA’s.

There are hundreds of articles out there on how to improve your Book Direct campaign (some of which you will find on our website). Please read them… There are well documented and proven strategies that will actually work and if you want to make a huge impact to your bottom line, then this will be it.

And leaving the best to last… our gift to you…. During budgeting season we would like to offer access to Calculate Hub completely free of charge (hoteliers only please). Just register here and we will send you access: https:// rightrevenue.hubspotpagebuilder.com/ free-access-to-right-revenue-calculatehub

ADRIENNE HANNA Right Revenue

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UNITED WINE

»Looking for a no alcohol draught solution for your bar? Try the Heineken®0.0 Blade! Research shows almost half (49%) of UK adults either don’t drink any alcohol or plan to cut down, which is reflected in Nielsen data showing that the category has grown 506% in the past 6yrs. The refrigerated BLADE dome does not demand cellar space or refrigeration. The compression system and carbonated kegs do not require C02 or additional hardware. All you need to do is plug in and serve!

NIHF TRADE NEWS

BRITVIC AQUA LIBRA

Britvic now offers a wide range of table bottling solutions to the NI hotel channel, via Britvic Aqua Libra Co Ltd. Aqua Libra is a premium, pure tasting, finely filtered water, presented in a range of stunning glassware including bespoke co-branded options. The brand is inspired by the vision that the hospitality trade should no longer have to choose between profit, guest experience and sustainability.

A wide range of beautiful equipment solutions are available, in a choice of colour and finishes, so great tasting water can be dispensed proudly front of house, or back of house, as the hotel requires. It offers taps suitable for all hotel areas - reception, bar, restaurants, leisure spaces, conference centres and guest bedroom areas.

NET AFFINITY

Net Affinity has revealed a new brand. Managing Director, William Cotter, commented, “We have carefully considered every single element and trait of Net Affinity to bring you a fresh new take on who we are. We can’t wait to continue delivering the best service and technology on the market so that hoteliers can focus on providing the ultimate guest experience, helping them become embedded in the hearts of their guests.

“Our purpose is to create forever guests. We will continue to deliver results through innovative tech and a genuine commitment to the success of our clients and our new branding encapsulates all of this perfectly.”

INSIGHT 6

Fed up with fake and negative TripAdvisor or Google reviews?

Insight6 has launched the fix, ‘instant insight’. It’s a live database that captures how your customers feel about their experience whilst visiting your premise. Instant insight allows YOU to control online reviews, meaning only the reviews you want to share on social media go live - No more one star reviews.

These are not fake reviews, these are your customers own words, instant insight allows you total control. Think five star every time.

SWITCHING ON TO EV

The electric vehicle (EV) revolution isn’t coming, it is already here, and hoteliers are accelerating their plans to cope with rising demand for charging infrastructure.

As hotel guests and visitors increasingly seek locations that have EV charging facilities, Weev is working with venues across Northern Ireland to supercharge their EV provision.

The locally-based company launched earlier this year with a commitment to invest £20 million to build the region’s largest public EV charging network, with 1,500 points to be installed over the initial phase.

Philip Rainey, CEO, explained that the hospitality sector will play a crucial role in realising those ambitions.

“Through our rollout of public chargers, we are focused on meeting the needs of EV drivers where it is most convenient for them. In collaboration with our partners, we are delivering a network that will see units installed in locations such as shopping centres, leisure facilities, and of course hotels,” he said.

“The hospitality sector is telling us of their requirement for charging equipment that provides their guests with the peace of mind that they can readily top up their vehicle without any interruption to their stay – and we’re responding.”

It is no surprise that many of the first adopters of Weev’s EV charging solution, which offers a range of options that match the needs of customers, whether seeking units that provide a rapid 20-minute charge or those that allow an overnight top up, have been hotels.

“We’re partnering with leading hoteliers right across Northern Ireland as they seek to upgrade their provision.

“It comes as hotel booking sites are including ‘EV charging’ among the searchable criteria for those seeking accommodation.

“The number of results showing EV chargers present locally remains small, but that is rapidly changing for the better.”

Weev charging sites are now up and running at a number of hotel locations across Northern Ireland including the Beechlawn Hotel in Dunmurry, which was the first to go live in the summer.

Others include Valley Hotel, Fivemiletown, The Downshire, Banbridge and McKeever Hotel Group venues Corr’s Corner and Dunadry Hotel.

Philip added:

“The benefits of installing electric vehicle charging facilities are wide ranging. Obviously, it provides a vital facility for staying guests to top up and showcases your commitment to sustainability.

But hotels are also reporting significant uplift in footfall as drivers call in to charge before continuing their journey, just as they might at a traditional filling station.

“Those same drivers remain on site, spending money, perhaps buying a coffee or a meal in the hotel restaurant.

“The most exciting thing is, we are only at the beginning.”

For more information about Weev’s EV solutions, visit www.weev.ie or contact 028 9031 3031 or hello@weev.ie to discuss how Weev can supercharge your EV infrastructure.

MORE AND MORE HOTELS ARE INSTALLING EV CHARGERS.

» Weev-Philip Rainey, left, CEO, Weev, joins Tim Bradley, General Manager, Beechlawn Hotel to welcome the installation of new EV chargers at the Belfast venue.

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Webb Wonders

Musings from the Federation’s Economic Advisor

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

I remember being at an Hotels Federation event a while back and a speaker referenced the damage that certain angry TV chefs had done to the attractiveness of that sector in terms of the skills pipeline. People were concluding that a career in a kitchen would mean years of grind and being shouted at a lot. I’ve found a perfect counterbalance to that view – ‘The Hotel People’ on BBC.

I’ve really been enjoying the insights in the Hastings Group of hotels these past few weeks. What strikes me when I watch is just how passionate and dedicated the people who have featured in the programme are. It seems like really hard work, but rewarding. I was also particularly struck by just how difficult the pandemic had been on the sector, and how difficult reopening was, in no small part due to the ‘can we, can’t we’ uncertainty brought about by the Executive pondering matters.

The issue that really jumps out from the series is the labour shortage the hospitality sector faces. We’ve been

reading about this for some time but I’ve seen its impact now. Staff from one hotel were being borrowed from another hotel in the group to cover shortages, and the pressure that labour shortages have brought has been a core theme across the series. I also saw the labour shortage impacting at first hand during my summer break on the north coast – staff in many places were completely run off their feet but always were trying their best.

I’ve also seen the labour shortage issue from another perspective. I have a 16 year old son who, having completed his GCSEs in mid-June, was mad keen to get summer work. So, CV at the ready, I had convinced him that getting a job would be a cinch and that hospitality was crying out for people. That part is true, job ads were not hard to find but after a couple of hours of trawling job sites, it became oddly evident that a frustratingly high number of hospitality roles (and to be clear, we were looking for server type roles) were seeking people with prior experience.

On a certain level I can understand why an employer would set this bar in a buyers’ market where labour is plentiful. However, in a tight labour market when you aren’t even paying above the market rate, it feels wrong that some in the sector want staff but only if some other employer has already taken a punt on them first and spent some time (and money) training them up! I also observed how disheartening it was to an eager potential worker looking for a start. On a positive note, junior found a job and he appears to be perfectly skilled at collecting and delivering food and drink orders, despite the lack of prior experience.

I get that the sector needs people, its painfully obvious. I just wonder if being more open to ‘fresh’ new recruits could fill some holes. Oh, and embrace technology by putting your rotas in an app. It’s the only way that generation coming through consume info.

ANDREW WEBB ON THE CHALLENGE OF FINDING A JOB FOR HIS SON

HIDDEN COSTS OF SOFTWARE

SHOULD YOU LOOK AT MOVING AWAY FROM ON-PREMISES HOTEL SOFTWARE?

Cloud computing is reshaping industries worldwide, and the hospitality industry is no exception. The COVID-19 pandemic has laid bare the need for low-touch solutions in a high-touch industry.

Generally speaking, legacy on-premises enterprise systems lack the flexibility to adapt the rapid business change. Software that was designed and installed years ago could not have anticipated the challenges facing the hospitality industry as it accommodates travellers in the post-COVID era. Trying to retrofit those systems to meet current needs requires time and capital that hoteliers cannot spare. Here are four hidden costs that make it clear why the cloud is a better choice than on-premises software for hospitality enterprises.

1. Hardware and infrastructure. In a hotel server room, hardware, air conditioning, electricity, and the physical space aren’t exactly hidden costs. But you may underestimate the amount they add to the totalcost-of-ownership (TCO) equation. In addition, the storage demands of many on-premises software packages can result in unexpected disk space shortages that have to be resolved—fast. The resources, time, and trouble required to keep a server room afloat, can be an unwelcomed distraction during a time of dramatic business change.

2. Software. Once hotel software licenses have been purchased, there are often costs related to IT support, mobile device support, and add-on software that need to be factored in. In addition, emergency fixes from the software vendor can result in increased IT labour costs. Even operating system and anti-virus

software costs need to be added to the equation. Add to that customer demand for new features and functionality and you have a recipe for hidden cost.

3. Security & Backups. If you’re managing your own system backups, the cost of off-site storage and costs associated with the staff needed to manage and troubleshoot backups are all part of the on-premises package. That backup becomes ever more critical as you roll out new features that may require you to expose valuable legacy data to new systems.

4. Integrations, upgrades and patches. If your software is on-premises, then it’s the responsibility of your IT team—or your pricey thirdparty vendor—to keep it up to date. Third-party integrations can cause changes to the server parameter that result in major downtime and work disruptions. Those can be expensive—and in many cases these mundane tasks can distract your IT team from focusing on projects that create more value for your organization.

Future-proofing your digital infrastructure

But these hidden costs can be avoided. Access to the virtual capabilities of the cloud has leveled the playing field for major international chains, regional chains, local hotel groups and small boutique hotels alike. Hospitality CIOs and IT teams are looking to cloud computing to support new hybrid workforce models and take advantage of the flexibility, security, and affordability that the cloud provides.

There are other costs that go away with

the cloud. For example, the cost of purchasing software that never ends up being used— ‘shelfware’—is a nonissue with the cloud.

Increased operational costs, including additional guest-facing staff when system downtime occurs, should be calculated into the TCO. In the end, understanding the true cost of onpremises software—and the ways cloud computing can eliminate these costs—can help ensure that you’re setting up your digital infrastructure for future success.

Built on the security and performance of Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, the OPERA Cloud Platform is a cloud-based, mobileenabled property management system for hotels of all size and service level, providing the industry’s richest level of functionality and integration capabilities.

Oracle Hospitality is working harder than ever to provide users with technology – anchored by its cloud-based suite of solutions (OPERA Cloud) including property management and sales & events management, distribution, point of sale (Simphony), and Oracle Nor1 upsell solutions – that provide the agility needed to navigate the future in Hospitality.

To discuss how Oracle Hospitality can future proof your digital infrastructure contact: Rosemary McArdle, Sales Director, Oracle Hospitality rosemary.mcardle@oracle.com Mobile: +353 87 829 4696

ROSEMARY MCARDLE Oracle

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HOLIDAY PAY SHAKE UP

SUPREME COURT JUDGEMENT CHANGES CALCULATIONS

McKees, is advising businesses who employ term-time, zero hours or partyear workers to check their contracts following a recent Supreme Court judgment in the case of Harpur Trust v Brazel upholding the Court of Appeal’s decision that part-year workers should not have their paid holiday apportioned.

Andrea McCann said: “This decision is likely to have a significant impact on any businesses who employ term-time, zero hours or part-year workers as the case settled the dispute on what the correct method is for calculating holiday pay for employees who only work for certain parts of the year.”

Previously it was argued that the statutory entitlement to annual leave should be apportioned for an employee working fewer weeks than the standard 46.4 week working year. However, the Supreme Court stated that the Working Time Regulations 1998 did not allow for apportioning of holiday pay for permanent employees.

“For employers in Northern Ireland, this decision is applicable to an employee who is deemed to have no regular working hours under (s. 20 of the Employment Rights (NI) Order 1996). For these employees, employers must now change how they calculate holiday pay in order for it to comply with the decision in Harpur,” Andrea continued.

The correct formula to calculate holiday is the Calendar week method, this involves calculating the average of all the remuneration earned in the previous 12 weeks by the employee. If in the last

12 weeks, no remuneration was paid on any given week, the employer must ignore these weeks and must instead take account of earlier weeks where remuneration was paid to calculate the 12-week average. This is notably different from the provision in England which uses a 52-week average calculation period which was introduced on 6th April 2020.

For those staff employed permanently but have irregular or part time hours the decision could lead to them receiving a proportionally greater sum of holiday pay than a full-time member of staff. To avoid this, employers have several potential steps available to them.

Firstly, they should try and avoid situations where employees are employed on a full-time contract of employment but work a vastly greater number of hours at a peak time. Avoiding long periods where an employee undertakes no work will help reduce the possibility of absurd results as the employer must ignore periods where no work is carried out for the purposes of holiday pay calculations.

Furthermore, employers may look at those employees on an hourly rate who work varying hours depending on the seasons and decide to instead pay them an annualised salary which is the same every month. This would curb the potential for proportional unfairness and reduce the administrative burden of having to undertake weekly calculations. Employers also have the option of changing the contract of employment, switching to a zero-hours model as opposed to a full-time contract when in

fact they do not require that employee to undertake the work on a consistent basis.

With regard to limitation, the case of Harpur does not address the issue. However, the case of Chief Constable of the Police Service for Northern Ireland and the Northern Ireland Policing Board v Agnew and others does. The Court in this case failed to give a concrete limitation date for claiming holiday pay, but as a guide it encouraged the parties to agree a “pragmatic, administrationfriendly method for calculating and paying “normal pay” based on averages taken over a rolling 12-month period immediately preceding the period of leave”. Employers should therefore proactively identify possible instances where there has been a potential underpayment and come to a sensible compromise with the employee to rectify this.

For further information on the legal services offered by McKees go to mckeeslaw.com or call 028 9023 2303.

ANDREA MCCANN

McKees

hOsPitality exchange 2022

crOwne Plaza belfast

11th & 12th OctOber

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 11th & 12th October.

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featuring

Dr Paul Redmond

José Pizarro

Sarah Duignan

Mick Boyle

Pól Ó Conghaile

Gareth Hetherington

Caroline Dunlea

Michael Williamson

Davina Saint

Neal Morrison

Tim Browne

Pamela Ballantine

Mark Simpson and more

Register now at hospitalityexchange.org.uk