Latest news with #ValorHospitalityPartners
The Herald Scotland
a day ago
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
St Andrews golf hotel group boss on building global business
Name: Euan McGlashan Job title: Global co-founder & CEO What is your business called? Valor Hospitality Partners Where is it based? Atlanta in the US is our global HQ, with regional offices in Manchester in the UK, Cape Town in South Africa, and Dubai in the UAE. What does it do? Operator of newly opened St Andrews hotel, Seaton House, Valor Hospitality Partners is a leading full-service hospitality underwriting, acquisition, development, management, and asset management company. Along with the Seaton House opening, Valor also oversaw the opening of its sister hotel in Northern Ireland, Dunluce Lodge, earlier this year. Overlooking the fourth fairway of Royal Portrush, home of The 153rd Open, Dunluce Lodge and Seaton House occupy some of the most prestigious golfing real estate anywhere on the planet. To whom does it sell? Our clients are masterbrands, real estate developers, REITs (real estate investment trusts), family offices, brokerage companies, hotel guests, travellers, diners . . . How many employees? Over 8,000 'Hotelitarians'. What attracted you to your current role and what were you doing before? I started as a reluctant entrepreneur and now call myself a serial entrepreneur because I never anticipated creating something like Valor. I started the company in the basement of my home after leaving a role that wasn't sustainable. I've been in the hospitality industry since I was 16, starting out by peeling vegetables and washing pots. I quickly worked my way up to a management position at a young age but have been in every role you can imagine so I am deeply embedded in all facets of the business. Throughout my journey, I discovered a genuine passion for serving others, which has remained central to my approach. What do you least enjoy? While I truly enjoy the travel and the energy it brings, it's not always glamorous. Staying deeply connected with every region we operate in can be demanding, and navigating different time zones definitely adds its own set of challenges. What do you consider to be the main successes of the business? We love to make guests and colleagues alike feel better about who they are. At Valor, we are proud of our deep-rooted expertise in the hospitality industry. As we continue to be revolutionary, we have embraced a new tagline that better reflects who we are and how we operate: 'A Whole World of Local'. This is more than just a tagline – it is the guiding principle to our success. It also includes how Valor is committed to supporting local businesses in the areas we operate in. For example, Seaton House in St Andrews has benefitted greatly from working with some amazing local suppliers. We also don't like the term 'employee' or 'staff', so our team members are 'Hotelitarian'', which we have actually defined and trademarked as a word. Hotelitarians are driven by bringing others together from all walks of life – not just to travel but to experience new places, spaces and cultures for a more compassionate world through the art of hospitality. What are your ambitions for the firm? For Seaton House our goal is to compete with the best and grow into becoming the number one hotel in the market: staying humble with low ego but striving to excel. Excellence in food and beverage, excellence in golf, obsession about guest experience, understanding we have a captive market. It will always only ever be about the details – millions of them daily. Looking ahead, one of our key goals is to double the size of our portfolio in the coming years – empowering and nurturing the next generation of hospitality leaders along the way. A legacy company that reaches new heights. What are the challenges facing the sector and market, and what could be done to overcome or address these? The sector currently faces several key challenges, including rising labour costs, the ongoing need for staff training, increasing operational expenses, maintaining high quality standards, and keeping pace with ever-evolving trends. These pressures are constant and demand resilience and adaptability. To effectively address these challenges, it starts with trust and a strong set of core values embedded in the organisation's culture. For us, that foundation is captured in our mantra: striving to 'Do the simple things, brilliantly'. By focusing on consistent execution and valuing progress over perfection, we empower our teams to grow sustainably. What single thing would most help? Unity among teams. Having a team you can always trust that always has each other's back. What is the most valuable lesson you have learned? People are not against you, they're for themselves. Understand that and you understand life. What was your best moment? On a daily basis, I'm thankful that I was blessed with tenacity and willpower – that's helped Valor become a business I'm incredibly proud of. What has been your most challenging moment in life or business? Risking everything to create Valor. I had a family I needed to provide for and, with no income, it was one of the most challenging moments in my life– staying the course for two years living off my kids' college funds. How do you relax? I find staying active and consistent with my routine really helps me relax. I make time for the gym, cycling, hiking and even cold-water swimming when in South Africa. Being outdoors and moving my body helps me unwind, clear my head and maintain a positive mindset – it's a big part of how I take care of my mental health. I do love a great glass of wine, too, or a single malt from Islay when I'm at Seaton House. Read more What phrase or quotation has inspired you the most? Nelson Mandela has been my biggest role model for as long as I can remember, having met him many times while living in South Africa. The way he lived by the spirit of Ubuntu really speaks to me – that idea that being human is about showing compassion, understanding, reconciliation, forgiveness, and respect. 'I am who I am because of who we all are.' It's something I try to carry with me every day in how I treat others and navigate the world. What is the best book (fiction or non-fiction) you have ever read? Why is it the best? I do love The Alchemist by Paolo Coehlo. It's a great fable about life's journey and how you get ahead but always knowing how you treat people on the way up is important as you will meet the same people on the way down. I also like Don't Sweat the Small Stuff by Richard Carlson. It's a brilliant and simple read, but it has had a profound impact on how I approach life and stress. The biggest takeaway for me – and something I now share often when mentoring others – is the idea of perspective: when something is bothering you, ask yourself: 'Will this matter in a week? A month? A year?'. And I do love a fictional Wilbur Smith novel. Where do you find yourself most at ease? At home and in a safe place. Being around family, friends and loved ones helps you unwind. Having a core support system is incredibly important. If you weren't in your current role, what job would you most fancy? I always fancied being either an airline pilot or a wine maker. Leaving home at 16 with terrible grades was not ideal preparation to be an airline pilot and, candidly, I prefer just drinking wine! Although, I would have loved that life. What countries have you most enjoyed travelling to, for business or leisure, and why? I've been fortunate to travel extensively throughout my career, both for business and leisure. The UK, particularly Edinburgh where I grew up, will always be home. But another chapter of my life began when I had the opportunity to move to South Africa at such a young age. That experience opened my eyes to a completely different world, and in many ways, South Africa has become home as well. Cape Town and Edinburgh are my two 'happy' places. These global experiences have not only shaped who I am but also influenced my family and the direction we continue to grow in.
ME Construction
16-04-2025
- Business
- ME Construction
Accor, ICD and Valor Hospitality introduce six-hotel cluster in Deira Waterfront
Property Accor, ICD and Valor Hospitality introduce six-hotel cluster in Deira Waterfront By This expansion meets the growing need for mid-scale and economy hotels said a statement Accor, Valor Hospitality Partners and ICD (Investment Corporation of Dubai) have strengthened their partnership with the launch of a six-hotel cluster in Dubai Deira Waterfront as part of the Deira Enrichment Program. Accor operates over 290 properties in the Middle East across all its brands, with plans to expand further, adding +130 new addresses by 2028, said a statement from the firm. Valor Hospitality Partners will manage the responsibilities for the six-hotel cluster comprising 999 guest rooms. This includes three Accor properties under the ibis Styles, Aparthotel Adagio, and Mercure brands, along with three newly constructed properties that will be branded as Novotel, ibis Styles, and Mercure in Dubai. This expansion meets the growing need for mid-scale and economy hotels. It also expands Valor's management team in the UAE and shows Accor's commitment to being careful with money and operations. With a diversified portfolio, this partnership caters to distinct traveler needs, with Adagio meeting the demand of extended stays, Mercure delivering locally inspired experiences, ibis Styles providing design-driven affordability, and Novotel blending business and leisure, said a statement. 'Focusing on strategic, sustainable and exponential growth is the driving force of our partnership with ICD and its wholly owned property developer Ithra Dubai,' said Julien Bergue, Co-Founder & Managing Partner ME, AMEA at Valor Hospitality Partners. 'This intensifies our firm commitment to the UAE and Dubai Hospitality Sectors, both well known for their innovation and excellence. The project also reflects our belief in our new slogan 'A Whole World of Local' which underscores our dedication to being closely connected to our partners and communities in the UAE, the Middle East, and wherever we operate.' 'Strengthening our collaboration with ICD reaffirms our commitment to sustainable growth with trusted partners. By integrating these properties under the Accor umbrella, we are reinforcing our alignment with the UAE's vision to enhance tourism and hospitality infrastructure in key districts. This expansion also reflects the increasing demand for quality mid-scale and economy accommodations in Dubai, catering to a diverse range of travelers,' said Paul Stevens, Accor's Chief Operating Officer, Premium, Midscale & Economy brands for MEA. The partnership between Valor Hospitality Partners, ICD, and Accor exemplifies the synergy of global expertise and deep local market insights. By optimising financial performance and driving sustainable growth, this collaboration sets new benchmarks for Dubai's hospitality industry, ensuring each property thrives in its unique context. Aligned with the UAE's sustainability and economic goals, Accor and Valor Hospitality Partners integrates eco-conscious practices and community development throughout its operations. From resource conservation initiatives to skill development, Accor and Valor remain dedicated to fostering local talent and supporting national employment objectives. From acquisition advisory to innovative food and beverage concepts, Valor provides solutions that bridge the gap between tradition and modernity. Its approach spans hotel management, branded residences, asset management, branding, and luxury lifestyle services, including golf, spa, and fitness management, the statement concluded.
Tourism Breaking News
14-04-2025
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
Accor, ICD and Valor Hospitality hold 6 hotel cluster with 999 keys in Deira
Post Views: 173 Accor, Valor Hospitality Partners and ICD (Investment Corporation of Dubai),have strengthened their partnership with the launch of a six-hotel cluster in Dubai Deira Waterfront as part of the Deira Enrichment Program. Under the new agreement, the six-hotel cluster with 999 keys will be managed by Valor Hospitality Partners. This expansion integrates three well-established Accor properties under the ibis Styles, Aparthotel Adagio, and Mercure brands, along with three new properties that will be branded as Novotel, ibis Styles, and Mercure in Dubai. The cluster officially opened 1 April 2025, further solidifying Accor's position in Dubai's hospitality sector, addressing the growing demand for quality midscale and economy accommodations, expanding Valor's current management portfolio in the UAE, and further cementing a commitment to operational excellence and financial efficiency. With a diversified portfolio, this expansion caters to distinct traveler needs, with Adagio meeting the demand of extended stays, Mercure delivering locally inspired experiences, ibis Styles providing design-driven affordability, and Novotel seamlessly blending business and leisure. 'Focusing on strategic, sustainable and exponential growth is the driving force of our partnership with ICD and its wholly owned property developer Ithra Dubai,' said Julien Bergue, Co-Founder & Managing Partner – Middle East, AMEA at Valor Hospitality Partners. 'This intensifies our firm commitment to the UAE and Dubai Hospitality Sectors, both well known for their innovation and excellence. The project also reflects our belief in our new slogan, 'A Whole World of Local,' which underscores our dedication to being closely connected to our partners and communities in the UAE, the Middle East, and wherever we operate.' For Accor, the expansion aligns with its long-term vision for the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific. 'Strengthening our collaboration with ICD reaffirms our commitment to sustainable growth with trusted partners. By integrating these properties under the Accor umbrella, we are reinforcing our alignment with the UAE's vision to enhance tourism and hospitality infrastructure in key districts. This expansion also reflects the increasing demand for quality midscale and economy accommodations in Dubai, catering to a diverse range of travelers.' said Paul Stevens, Accor's Chief Operating Officer, Premium, Midscale & Economy brands for Middle East and Africa. The partnership between Valor Hospitality Partners, ICD, and Accor exemplifies the synergy of global expertise and deep local market insights. By optimizing financial performance and driving sustainable growth, this collaboration sets new benchmarks for Dubai's hospitality industry, ensuring each property thrives in its unique context. Aligned with the UAE's sustainability and economic diversification goals, Accor and Valor Hospitality Partners integrates eco-conscious practices and community development throughout its operations. From resource conservation initiatives to skill development, Accor and Valor remain dedicated to fostering local talent and supporting national employment objectives. This strategic agreement marks a significant milestone for all three partners, strengthening their collaboration in one of Dubai's most dynamic districts. As demand surges for midscale and economy accommodations, the portfolio is poised to serve a growing segment of travelers seeking quality stays at competitive pricing. Accor operates over 290 properties in the Middle East across all its brands, with plans to expand further, adding +130 new addresses by 2028. From acquisition advisory to innovative food and beverage concepts, Valor provides comprehensive solutions that bridge the gap between tradition and modernity. Its holistic approach spans hotel management, branded residences, asset management, branding, and luxury lifestyle services, including golf, spa, and fitness management.
Arabian Business
14-04-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Accor, Valor Hospitality, ICD launch six-hotel cluster in Dubai Deira Waterfront
Accor, Valor Hospitality Partners, and the Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD) have announced the opening of a new six-hotel cluster in Dubai's Deira Waterfront. The project is part of the Deira Enrichment Programme and officially opened on April 1, 2025. Under the agreement, the 999-key cluster will be managed by Valor Hospitality Partners. It includes three existing Accor properties under the ibis Styles, Aparthotel Adagio, and Mercure brands. These are now joined by three new properties that will be operated under the Novotel, ibis Styles, and Mercure flags. New Dubai hotel cluster The new cluster forms part of a wider strategy to support demand for midscale and economy accommodation in the region. The initiative strengthens Accor's presence in Dubai and expands Valor's management portfolio in the UAE. 'Focusing on strategic, sustainable and exponential growth is the driving force of our partnership with ICD and its wholly owned property developer Ithra Dubai. This intensifies our firm commitment to the UAE and Dubai hospitality sectors, both well known for their innovation and excellence. The project also reflects our belief in our new slogan, 'A Whole World of Local,' which underscores our dedication to being closely connected to our partners and communities in the UAE, the Middle East, and wherever we operate,' Julien Bergue, Co-Founder & Managing Partner – Middle East, AMEA at Valor Hospitality Partners. Each of the six hotels is positioned to cater to a distinct market segment. The Adagio brand serves the extended-stay segment, Mercure focuses on delivering locally rooted experiences, ibis Styles targets affordability with design-led spaces, while Novotel aims to serve both business and leisure guests. 'Strengthening our collaboration with ICD reaffirms our commitment to sustainable growth with trusted partners. By integrating these properties under the Accor umbrella, we are reinforcing our alignment with the UAE's vision to enhance tourism and hospitality infrastructure in key districts. This expansion also reflects the increasing demand for quality midscale and economy accommodations in Dubai, catering to a diverse range of travelers,' Paul Stevens, Accor's Chief Operating Officer, Premium, Midscale & Economy brands for Middle East and Africa added. The partnership combines international hospitality experience with local market insight. The goal is to improve financial performance and contribute to sustainable sector growth, supporting Dubai's development priorities. Aligned with the UAE's goals for sustainability and economic diversification, Accor and Valor Hospitality Partners incorporate eco-conscious operations and community development practices. Their strategy includes initiatives around resource conservation, talent development, and local employment. Accor currently operates more than 290 properties in the Middle East and plans to expand with over 130 additional locations by 2028. Valor offers services ranging from acquisition advisory to hotel and branded residence management. Its scope also includes asset management, branding, and lifestyle services such as golf, spa, and fitness operations. The new hotel cluster marks a step forward for the Deira district and reinforces collaboration between three of the region's key players in tourism and investment.
Zawya
14-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Accor, ICD and Valor launch six-hotel cluster in Deira Waterfront
Accor, a world-leading hospitality group, Valor Hospitality Partners, a global pioneer in hotel management, and ICD (Investment Corporation of Dubai), the principal investment arm of the Government of Dubai, have strengthened their partnership with the launch of a six-hotel cluster in Dubai Deira Waterfront as part of the Deira Enrichment Program. Under the new agreement, the six-hotel cluster with 999 keys will be managed by Valor Hospitality Partners. This expansion integrates three well-established Accor properties under the ibis Styles, Aparthotel Adagio, and Mercure brands, along with three new properties that will be branded as Novotel, ibis Styles, and Mercure in Dubai. The cluster officially opened April 1, 2025, further solidifying Accor's position in Dubai's hospitality sector, addressing the growing demand for quality midscale and economy accommodations, expanding Valor's current management portfolio in the UAE, and further cementing a commitment to operational excellence and financial efficiency. With a diversified portfolio, this expansion caters to distinct traveler needs, with Adagio meeting the demand of extended stays, Mercure delivering locally inspired experiences, ibis Styles providing design-driven affordability, and Novotel seamlessly blending business and leisure. 'Focusing on strategic, sustainable and exponential growth is the driving force of our partnership with ICD and its wholly owned property developer Ithra Dubai,' said Julien Bergue, Co-Founder & Managing Partner - Middle East, AMEA at Valor Hospitality Partners. 'This intensifies our firm commitment to the UAE and Dubai Hospitality Sectors, both well known for their innovation and excellence. The project also reflects our belief in our new slogan, 'A Whole World of Local,' which underscores our dedication to being closely connected to our partners and communities in the UAE, the Middle East, and wherever we operate.' For Accor, the expansion aligns with its long-term vision for the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific. 'Strengthening our collaboration with ICD reaffirms our commitment to sustainable growth with trusted partners. By integrating these properties under the Accor umbrella, we are reinforcing our alignment with the UAE's vision to enhance tourism and hospitality infrastructure in key districts. This expansion also reflects the increasing demand for quality midscale and economy accommodations in Dubai, catering to a diverse range of travelers,' said Paul Stevens, Accor's Chief Operating Officer, Premium, Midscale & Economy brands for Middle East and Africa. The partnership between Valor Hospitality Partners, ICD, and Accor exemplifies the synergy of global expertise and deep local market insights. By optimising financial performance and driving sustainable growth, this collaboration sets new benchmarks for Dubai's hospitality industry, ensuring each property thrives in its unique context. Aligned with the UAE's sustainability and economic diversification goals, Accor and Valor Hospitality Partners integrates eco-conscious practices and community development throughout its operations. From resource conservation initiatives to skill development, Accor and Valor remain dedicated to fostering local talent and supporting national employment objectives. This strategic agreement marks a significant milestone for all three partners, strengthening their collaboration in one of Dubai's most dynamic districts. As demand surges for midscale and economy accommodations, the portfolio is poised to serve a growing segment of travelers seeking quality stays at competitive pricing. Accor operates over 290 properties in the Middle East across all its brands, with plans to expand further, adding +130 new addresses by 2028. - Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
