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Daily Mail
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
EDEN CONFIDENTIAL: End of an era as sonless Sir Benjamin Slade turns his mansion over to hotel group
His quest for a wife secured him national attention when he emphasised that he was looking for a 'good breeder' decades younger than him, having explained that when 'you want a new car, you get a new car, not some old banger'. But I can disclose that, aged 79, Sir Benjamin Slade has accepted that he will never sire a lad to inherit his baronetcy, created for his great-great-great grandfather in 1831, and Maunsel House, the family seat in Somerset, and its 1,300-acre estate. Accordingly, he's now thrashing out a deal which will see Maunsel leased for the next 40 years. The incomer won't be a private individual but a corporate entity. 'I've got a deal with a hotel group. They're very upmarket,' Sir Benjy assures me, adding that he's intent on securing a final agreement which allows him to use Maunsel 'three or four times a year', even though he'll be paying for the privilege whenever he does so. He refrains from naming the hotel group, though it's probably a British one, given that he's previously summarised Russians as 'dishonest', Chinese as 'impossible' and Arabs 'a bloody nightmare', as well as making it clear that he won't do business 'with any country which has green in [its] flag'. That does, of course, leave open the possibility of a newcomer from the USA, a country with which Sir Benjy, who lives in a farmhouse on the estate, has numerous connections. These emerged in 2005 when he embarked on a proposed reality TV show which would have seen the remains of his 12th century ancestor William Atte Slade exhumed and compared with DNA from thousands of would-be Slade heirs from around the world. By then, Sir Benjy's 14-year childless marriage to Pauline Myburgh was long over. So, too, was a six-year romance with Fiona Aitken – now Countess of Carnarvon. Sir Ben's most recent love affair was with an American, Sahara Sunday Spain. In 2020, she bore him a child – who, alas for her prospects as Sir Benjamin's heir, was a girl, Violet. Perhaps one day she'll check into the hotel alongside him? Soprano's secret romance Danielle De Niese's life has been almost as dramatic as some of the operas she stars in, ever since she won a talent contest aged nine in Melbourne, Australia, before moving to Los Angeles, where she won an Emmy award while still only 19. The soprano, 46, has, though, revealed that she didn't want to tempt fate after falling in love with Gus Christie, 61, executive chairman of Glyndebourne opera house in East Sussex. They followed in the footsteps of Gus's grandfather John Christie, the founder of Glyndebourne, who had married the soprano Audrey Mildmay 70 years earlier. 'We became a couple, and we were very quiet about it because there's a very storied, fabled origin story about Glyndebourne about John marrying this soprano,' the singer says. 'So when Gus and I were in our early courtship days, we didn't tell anybody because I didn't want to get over-excited.' Cinderella star's slippery moment A glass slipper is pivotal to the fairy tale Cinderella, yet it proved more of a sore point for Lily James, who played the leading role in Disney's 2015 film version. The Downton Abbey and Mamma Mia 2 star, 36, reveals that she tried to make the wishes of a friend's niece come true by video-calling her while wearing a Cinderella costume and the Jimmy Choo diamond-encrusted stilettos made specifically for the film. 'This little girl lit up,' Lily recalls. 'Then I said, 'Look, I'm going to put it on'.' To her horror, the Surrey-born star found it a tight squeeze. She reveals: 'I'd been dancing all night at [London club] Koko, and my feet were swollen. I couldn't get the shoe on...' Forget sun tans - Lila chills in an electric face mask Spare a thought for the model Lila Moss, who feels the need to use cumbersome beauty treatments even while on holiday. The 22-year-old daughter of Kate Moss and magazine editor Jefferson Hack used a black LED face mask while reading on Formentera, the Spanish island. The anti-ageing light therapy device is said to help improve skin tone. Lila is on a break with her friend Lady Lola Bute, 26, daughter of the late 7th Marquess of Bute, aka racing driver Johnny Dumfries. Lila, who is a type 1 diabetic, could also be seen wearing a glucose monitor in the snap. Earlier this year, she fronted the campaign for Mattel's first diabetic Barbie. Things are looking up for Victoria Cipriani. Amid her acrimonious divorce from former England rugby star Danny Cipriani, she has announced she's now a certified neuroscience practitioner. 'I didn't get here through manifesting,' declares Victoria, 43. 'I got here through pain, practice, and a relentless need to understand myself.' Veteran actress Anne Reid, who recently played Queen Elizabeth in the play By Royal Appointment, recalls the disastrous time she performed in front of the late monarch and forgot her lines. The 90-year-old says: 'On one occasion at Buckingham Palace, I was performing a scene from Romeo and Juliet. I was playing the nurse and was terrified and 'dried' in the middle of my speech, so I ended up waffling and making rather a lot up. 'Afterwards, the Queen said to me, 'You had a lot to say, didn't you?' I replied, 'Yes, too much'.
Skift
01-08-2025
- Business
- Skift
Electrification and Renewables Are Driving Iberostar's Emissions Decline
Iberostar's progress suggests that focused action, like electrifying building with renewables and locking in clean power contracts, can deliver results. Iberostar says rooftop solar, electrification, and renewable energy contracts are helping it reduce greenhouse gas emissions, according to its latest sustainability report. The Spanish hotel group, which operates nearly 100 properties worldwide, reported a 17% year-over-year reduction in its Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions for 2024. Scope 1 emissions cover direct sources Iberostar owns or controls, like fuel for boilers. Scope 2 refers to indirect emissions from purchased electricity and energy. The company told Skift its progress came largely from switching hotel operations in Spain to 100% renewable electricity, after gaining a major su
Skift
25-07-2025
- Business
- Skift
Every One of Radisson's Hotel Brands, Explained
Radisson is quietly reinventing itself through regional focus and flexible branding, trading name recognition for market adaptability. Under CEO Federico J. González, Radisson Hotel Group has transformed from a legacy operator into a streamlined, regionally focused hotel group. Today, it manages a portfolio of more than 1,575 hotels across more than 100 countries, with strategic bets on lifestyle, soft brands, and conversions rather than chasing global uniformity. Ownership has changed hands multiple times in recent years, most recently in 2018 when a consortium led by China's state-owned Jin Jiang International acquired the business. Since selling its Americas business to Choice Hotels in 2022, Radisson has refocused on Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific, where it's quietly rebuilding scale through flexible brand models and a growing presence in India. The result is a brand family that looks different than peers like Marriott or Hilton: fewer marquee names, more localized plays, and a growing mix of midscale and upscale properties designed for specific regions. Here, we run through the brands that make up the Radisson Hotel Group. Note: Global footprint numbers and brand descriptions come from the Radisson Hotel Group as of May 2025. We referred to STR's global chain scales, or categories, and Radisson's own classifications in categorizing the brands. Luxury Radisson Collection Global footprint: 65+ hotels in operation and under development; 13,080+ rooms. Radisson Take: 'Radisson Collection is a luxury lifestyle collection of iconic properties located in unique locations. While the character of each Radisson Collection hotel feels authentic to its location, all of them offer the ultimate template for contemporary living – united by bespoke design and exceptional experiences across dining, fitness, wellness, and sustainability.' Skift Take: Radisson Collection is the group's modern luxury flagship, combining standout architecture with a strong sense of place. Recent additions in Srinagar and Rome highlight the brand's commitment to high design and locally rooted experiences. Its next step is building more consistency across global markets. Upper Upscale art'otel Global footprint: 7 hotels in operation; 1,160+ rooms. Radisson Take: 'art'otel is a contemporary collection of premium arts and lifestyle hotels, designed to deliver a highly distinctive guest experience and purposefully aimed at the high-value, modern-day traveler. Each property has its own design and is dedicated to a signature artist. Integral to its success are strong destination restaurants and bar concepts retaining hotel guests and locals, whilst also being a social hub and gathering place for the local community.' Skift Take: Developed by PPHE, art'otel sits at the crossroads of art, hospitality, and culture. Each hotel showcases a signature artist and bold interiors, creating a boutique feel with strong local ties. While not fully integrated into Radisson's core, it adds creative energy and differentiation to the wider portfolio. Radisson Blu Global footprint: 400+ hotels in operation and under development; 88,370+ rooms. Radisson Take: 'Radisson Blu is an upper upscale hotel brand that delivers meaningful and memorable experiences in stylish spaces. Characterized by attention to detail and the Yes I Can! service philosophy, Radisson Blu hotels are designed to make an unforgettable difference by anticipating travelers' needs through carefully curated touchpoints. Radisson Blu hotels can be found in major cities, key airport gateways, and leisure destinations.' Skift Take: Radisson Blu has long been RHG's most widely recognized upscale brand, with a strong presence in airports, city centers, and resorts. It combines consistent service with approachable design and global familiarity, making it a reliable choice for both business and leisure travelers. While evolution has been gradual, its foundation remains solid. Radisson Red Global footprint: 100+ hotels in operation and under development; 16,690 rooms. Radisson Take: 'Radisson Red is an upper upscale hotel brand that presents a playful twist on the conventional. The brand injects new life into hospitality through informal services where anything goes, a vibrant social scene that's waiting to be shared, and stylish public spaces with standout design to inspire our guests.' Skift Take: Launched as Radisson's answer to the next-gen, digitally savvy traveler, Red tries to balance playful design with digital convenience. The brand's identity is still maturing, but its expansion shows potential and that the concept resonates beyond Europe. The brand is still maturing but provides a fresh contrast to Radisson's more traditional offerings. Park Plaza Global footprint: 70 hotels in operation and under development; 13,780+ rooms. Radisson Take: 'Park Plaza is an upper upscale hotel brand that delivers authentic, genuine service, which is inspired by the personality of each locale. Designed to create a vibrant atmosphere by offering elegant and engaging services in contemporary surroundings.' Skift Take: Park Plaza is a reliable performer in the upper-upscale tier, often located near business hubs and event venues. It offers modern design and efficient service without leaning too heavily on lifestyle trends. Quietly successful, it fits well within RHG's broader strategy. Radisson Individuals Global footprint: 100+ hotels in operation and under development; 14,570+ rooms. Radisson Take: 'Radisson Individuals is a brand that allows hotel properties to maintain and promote their unique characteristics and personalities, whilst meeting the high standards of quality and service that guests have come to expect from the Radisson Hotel Group. Radisson Individuals properties are located in key business and leisure destinations.' 'Radisson Individuals Retreats provides guests with unique opportunities to immerse themselves in out-of-the-ordinary experiences through wellness programs, cultural excursions, specialist gastronomy, and more. Situated in scenic leisure destinations, these boutique lifestyle retreats connect guests with the authentic spirit of the locale while ensuring a sustainable stay and the highest standards of quality and service.' Skift Take: Radisson Individuals allows independent hotels to plug into RHG's network while retaining their own identity. It has grown rapidly in Europe and India, where flexibility is a major draw for owners. The 'Retreats' extension adds a boutique layer in India, focused on wellness and cultural immersion. While still early in rollout, it reflects a broader pivot toward experiential leisure in domestic tourism. RHG's ability to scale this niche will likely hinge on demand beyond tier-one cities. Upscale Radisson Global footprint: 220+ hotels in operation and under development; 36,500+ rooms. Radisson Take: 'Radisson is an upscale hotel brand that offers Scandinavian-inspired hospitality, which enables guests to find more harmony in their travel experience. With natural surroundings and unexpected delights, Radisson inspires the art of being in the moment, helping guests find the right balance for their stay and enabling them to switch off and relax. Radisson hotels can be found in leisure destinations, suburban and city settings, and near airports.' Skift Take: The group's namesake brand has shifted away from its U.S. roots to focus on balance, calm, and Scandinavian-inspired design. It's expanding fast in India and EMEA, often in secondary cities and mixed-use developments. A clear repositioning effort is underway, and it's starting to resonate with travelers seeking understated comfort. Midscale Park Inn by Radisson Global footprint: 240+ hotels in operation and under development; 33,810+ rooms. Radisson Take: 'Park Inn by Radisson is a (upper) midscale hotel brand that delivers stress-free experiences, good food, and upbeat environments. Mastering the essentials, Park Inn by Radisson positively lifts our guests' mood for a happy stay – through clever use of color, inspired, contemporary design, and friendly, personalized service with surprising, feel-good extras. Park Inn by Radisson hotels can be found in capital cities, around economic hubs, and near airports and railway stations.' Skift Take: Park Inn delivers accessible, midscale hospitality with bright design and efficient service. It's most visible in transit-oriented and emerging urban markets, where its value appeals to budget-conscious business and leisure travelers. While not flashy, it remains a steady presence in Radisson's portfolio. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Global footprint: 320+ hotels in operation and under development; 28,770+ rooms. Radisson Take: 'Country Inn & Suites by Radisson is a midscale hotel brand, inspired by a sense of belonging, community, and shared experiences. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson creates inviting modern comfort through its design, products, and services, so that all guests feel that they are welcome and connected.' Skift Take: This brand specializes in homey comfort for families and travelers passing through suburban or secondary markets. Its simple design and friendly service have made it a reliable choice in India and parts of the Asia-Pacific region. Low-key and familiar, it thrives by staying true to its roots. Park Inn & Suites by Radisson Global footprint: (Not available as of July 2025) Radisson Take: 'Park Inn & Suites by Radisson is an entry midscale hotel brand designed to deliver heartfelt hospitality in a modern yet comfortable setting. Inviting modern comfort is at the heart of ensuring our guests feel connected and welcomed. Our hotels across India share an inviting design with a reimagined use of space, harmonizing natural materials and colors that reflect the welcoming hub of a home.' Skift Take: Launched in 2022, Park Inn & Suites by Radisson is a calculated play for India's booming midscale market, aiming for 150 hotels over 10 years in tier 2 to 5 cities. It's a volume-driven bet on domestic travel, where speed, affordability, and local relevance outweigh global name recognition. Prize by Radisson Global footprint: 25 hotels in operation and under development; 4,730+ rooms. Radisson Take: 'Prize by Radisson is a midscale lifestyle hotel brand, focusing on functional lifestyle design. Prize by Radisson's eclectic character combines comfortable accommodation with an informal setting and service culture. Prize by Radisson properties feature vibrant and modern spaces that provide welcoming multipurpose social areas, but also act as a peaceful environment for travelers to get a good night's rest and balance their hectic schedules. […] Prize by Radisson properties are located in city centers near public transportation, dining, and local sites to ensure guests make the most of their visit.' Skift Take: Prize is Radisson's newest entry, aimed at value-driven travelers who want style without the high price tag. Designed for urban centers, it features compact rooms, flexible spaces, and a tech-friendly experience. It's a smart move for RHG as demand for affordable lifestyle brands grows. Radisson Hotel Group CEO speaking at Skift Global Forum 2020. What am I looking at? The performance of hotels and short-term rental sector stocks within the ST200. The index includes companies publicly traded across global markets, including international and regional hotel brands, hotel REITs, hotel management companies, alternative accommodations, and timeshares. The Skift Travel 200 (ST200) combines the financial performance of nearly 200 travel companies worth more than a trillion dollars into a single number. See more hotels and short-term rental financial sector performance. Read the full methodology behind the Skift Travel 200. Originally Published on March 6th, 2018 | Last updated on July 25th, 2025 Deanna Ting contributed to the earlier version of this story.
Skift
30-06-2025
- Business
- Skift
Events Industry Recovery Hits Geopolitical Headwinds
The industry is facing its first non-pandemic resilience test. The numbers aren't terrible, but they're a wake-up call for an industry that's gotten too comfortable with its comeback narrative. The global events industry cooled in the first quarter of 2025 but still outperformed the same period last year, according to a new Events Industry Council (EIC) report. Hotel group bookings and RFP activity dipped to 90% of 2019 levels — down from 96% and 98% in the prior quarter, but up from 87% in Q1 of 2024. North America had the strongest hotel group demand, hitting 96% of 2019 levels. The Middle East followed at 95%. Central and Eastern Europe was the worst performing region at 74% of pre-pandemic levels. Regional RFP activity varied widely. Mexico led at 177% of 2019 levels, followed by Turkey at 171%. The U.S. maintained strong performance at 112%, while China and Germany struggled at 56% and 50% of pre-pandemic activity respectively. Global room rates averaged 129% of 2019 levels, a modest increase given a global inflation rate of 23.7%. This pricing pressure comes at a challenging time, as organizations grapple with tightening budgets and scrutiny of business travel and event expenditures. Large and medium-sized events (200+ peak room nights) show greater price sensitivity. Rates for larger events average 123% of 2019 levels compared to 129% for smaller ones. Events booked within 12 months command higher premiums than long-term bookings, suggesting organizers are paying more for flexibility. Industry headwinds include Middle East tensions, tariff uncertainties, and shifting travel policies. The latest business sentiment index from Oxford Economics — which partners with the EIC on this series of reports — is 1.1% below the historical average, with 74% of respondents citing trade war concerns as their top risk. While the industry's recovery foundation remains solid, geopolitical pressures and policy shifts raise questions about potential slowdowns ahead.
Skift
26-06-2025
- Business
- Skift
'Climate Is Our Number One Risk': Iberostar Pushes for Tourism Sector Action
Iberostar's warning that climate change a the top risk to the tourism sector reflects a growing concerns that beachfront hotels may face mounting physical threats and financial exposure in the future. The Spanish international hotel group Iberostar has said that climate change is the number one risk to its business and is calling for greater investment in the tourism sector to counter the impact. Iberostar, with more than 100 hotels in 15 countries, says it is intensifying efforts to protect its properties, especially in vulnerable coastal areas like the Caribbean. 'For us, climate is our number 1 risk,' said Gloria Fluxà Thienemann, Vice-Chairman and Chief Sustainability Officer at Iberostar Group, speaking Wednesday at London Climate Week. "We operate more than 80% of our portfolio in exposed areas like beach front regions. And we are not alone – this is a problem for the whole tourism sector.' Mangroves, Corals and Sand Dunes Thienemann also outlined some of the actions Iberostar is taking. Mangroves: Iberostar is using ma
