The hotel sector has seen a big upturn in investment in recent times with a growing number of sales and developments reported across the country.
In Liverpool this includes the news that the Beatles themed Hard Day’s Night Hotel is being offered for sale for £11 million while another, celebrating the legendary Liverpool FC manager Bill Shankly, is under construction.
Now it has emerged that hoteliers in the city were the big winners over the recent Grand National weekend after a record breaking 150,000 race goers headed to Aintree, providing a huge boost to the sector.
According to the Liverpool Hoteliers Association (LHA) both chain and independent brands enjoyed a rise in occupancy levels during the annual event, which also boosted the profits of other leisure and retail operators on Merseyside.
LHA Chairman James Rush claims that the internationally renowned steeplechase helps Liverpool to “maintain its reputation as a city that delivers multi-cultural events that appeal to the masses.”
He continues; “This year Aintree Races welcomed a record-breaking crowd, which provided a staggering economic boost to the region.
“From a hospitality perspective, initial reports indicate that Liverpool hotel occupancy figures were strong throughout the sporting festival, which is encouraging, considering the increase in hotel supply over the past few years – it also adds to the vibrancy and character of the city, and a lot of food and beverage is consumed at the hotels, as well as the racetrack.
“Following the increase in footfall during the event, thousands of Liverpool restaurants, bars, shops, salons and attractions also received heightened custom and therefore contributed to the city’s overall economy boost.”
When the Grand National was first established in 1839, it was very much focused upon the racing and gambling itself, but has since evolved to become a major fashion, networking and entrepreneurial event.
One of the main sectors affected by this transition has been the corporate sector, as the ability of British businesses to offer high quality entertainment and unique networking opportunities for the three day duration simply cannot be ignored by those seeking international expansion and connections.
While it may seem that hoteliers are easily able to capitalise upon the huge crowds, executive committee member of the LHA Steven Hesketh maintains that careful planning and competitive pricing are both essential for members looking to make a strong profit.
He says; “Aintree Races is a big hitting event for Liverpool, and has helped to put our culturally diverse city on the map.
“As always this year’s event has had a huge impact on the city when it comes to boosting hotel rates and occupancy figures – whether it be tourists or local residents the demand for hotel rooms during the three days remains consistent year on year, however hoteliers are mindful that we must stay competitive when these crucial events hit the city.
“It’s evident that we all, along with many local businesses and city attractions have witnessed an increase in economic surge.”
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