All articles by Blatha
Blatha
Culture of success
Deutsche Hospitality now accounts for 130 hotels in operation and under development across three continents, but it was not always thus. Claus-Dieter Jandel, chief development officer, speaks to Phin Foster about why an internal cultural shift was necessary in order to make such global expansion possible, how his decades of experience within the company helped deliver it, and why Deutsche must never lose sight of its founding German values, even as it evolves into a truly international operator.
Softly does it
Once the preserve of the luxury tier, new soft brands that sit squarely in the mid to upscale market are targeting an untapped pool of hoteliers who value their independence but want the reach and reassurance of a global chain. Elly Earls meets Hilton’s Mark Nogal, Wyndham’s Philippe Bijaoui and consultant Bjorn Hanson to find out whether one can ever really have the best of both worlds.
Always follow your heart
Striking out on your own is risky in any business, let alone fine dining, but the potential rewards are rich. Basque culinary pioneer Eneko Atxa shares the philosophy that has brought his Azurmendi restaurant near Bilbao worldwide acclaim and three Michelin stars.
It’s all in the mix
Bruno Moinard is one of the most sought-after designers working today. After cutting his teeth under Andrée Putman and Jean-François Bodin, he became celebrated in his own right for his elegant hotel restorations, including Rome’s legendary Hotel Eden. Andrea Valentino talks to Moinard and his partner Claire Bétaille about striking a delicate balance between tradition and modernity, and what guests want from luxury hospitality.
Talent comes from within
Learning and training programmes are the most efficient means of getting the best out of staff and can also be the safest means by which to ensure that they are less likely to leave. Ross Davies sits down with Rezidor’s Iñigo Capell and Matthew Schuyler of Hilton Worldwide to hear about how their respective groups are acquiring, maintaining and developing new talent.
Strength in numbers
While some elements of its federal election raised concerns, the return of Angela Merkel as chancellor reminds the world why Germany has become a byword for reliability and consistency, particularly during a period of political upheaval and crisis for a number of its European brethren. It is certainly a message that international hoteliers and investors are hearing loud and clear, with occupancy and development hitting impressive levels. Bradford Keen speaks with Kay Strobl of Christie & Co, Ulf Templin of PKF hotelexperts, and AccorHotels’ Volkmar Pfaff about the reasons behind the boom, and why they are confident it will continue.
Lighting the way
Hilton Worldwide is setting new standards for energy saving across its global portfolio. Hotel Management International talks to Max Verstraete, vice-president for corporate responsibility, about how the hotel operator’s LightStay initiative is helping to point the way towards sustainability in hospitality.
Safe as hotels
While depressing, it’s an unavoidable fact that hotels can sometimes be uncomfortable environments for solo female guests. How should operators ensure they recognise women’s security concerns and discreetly create safer spaces for those travelling alone? Abi Millar talks to Maiden Voyage founder Carolyn Pearson and Dukes Hotel Group’s managing director Debrah Dhugga.
Close the gap
Despite comprising the majority of the overall workforce, women are woefully under-represented in senior management positions in the hospitality industry. EHMA vice-president Verena Radlgruber-Forstinger explains how forward-thinking hotel operators are seeking to break down the barriers to female success.
Preparation is key
With the increase of terror attacks in recent years, hotels are under mounting pressure to ensure they have measures in place to protect guests and workers. Hotel Management International talks to Robin Rossman from STR, Paul Moxness of Carlson Rezidor and Even Frydenberg of Scandic about keeping hotels secure.