Hospitality & Tourism

Dorset Biz News is now part of Insider Media!

From now on, all content produced by Dorset Biz News journalists will feature in Insider magazine and on the Insider website - bringing you even more in-depth business news, exclusive insights, and key regional deals.

What is Insider Media?

Insider is the UK’s biggest regional B2B publisher, delivering breaking business news, expert analysis, and exclusive interviews across key industries.

With a national reach and deep regional focus, Insider connects businesses, decision-makers, and entrepreneurs with the latest opportunities and insights.

Looking for the latest business news from Insider’s south west team? CLOSE
 

Bournemouth's first Holiday Inn is launched after former hotel receives a £1m makeover

Cllr David Flagg, Chairman, BCP Council, officially launches the new Holiday Inn Bournemouth, watched by Peter Baerwinkel, General Manager.

By Staff Reporter [email protected]

Published: November 10, 2019 | Updated: 10th November 2019

Bournemouth’s first Holiday Inn has been officially launched.

Cllr David Flagg, Chairman of BCP Council, performed the traditional ribbon-cutting at a ceremony on November 7.

Staff at the new Holiday Inn Bournemouth.

“We warmly welcome you to Bournemouth and wish you every success in the future,” he said.

London-based Jayhems Ltd acquired the former Ramada Encore in Bath Road last year. The hotel was built in 2006.

More than £1 million has been spent on a complete makeover including a refurbishment of all 113 bedrooms, new luxury beds, TVs and charging points, a mini-gym, superfast wi-fi, a new open lobby and a Starbucks.

The work took three months to complete with the hotel now fully rebranded as Holiday Inn Bournemouth.

Hemang Popat, Owner and Director, Jayhems Ltd, said: “I visited Bournemouth as a child and I’ve always loved it as a location.

Hemang Popat and Sam Barrell.

“We saw the opportunity and went for it and I’m very pleased with the final result. It looks superb.”

Peter Baerwinkel, General Manager, described the changes as “transformational.”

“I’d like to pay a special tribute to the staff. They are a fantastic team of people,” he said.

The hotel is owned by Jayhems Ltd and operated by Interstate United Kingdom Management Ltd under licence from IHG Hotels Ltd.

A franchise agreement covering the next 20 years has been agreed between Jayhems Ltd and IHG Hotels.

Sam Barrell, IHG’s UK and Ireland Development Manager, said the company had been waiting a long time to have a hotel in Bournemouth.

He added: “We couldn’t find the right partner and we couldn’t find the right property.

“Now our stars have aligned and I’m absolutely delighted.”

Peter Ryan, and fellow Dorset Devils, receive a cheque from Peter Baerwinkel.

Guests at the opening ceremony included Peter Ryan, Founder of Dorset Devils, the litter-picking voluntary group made up of more than 470 volunteers.

Holiday Inn Bournemouth is to back the group, both financially – a £500 cheque was presented to Mr Ryan – but also team members volunteering as litter pickers.

Mr Baerwinkel said: “Dorset Devils is an excellent cause and we’re very happy to support it.”

Latest Posts

Hot Radio on board for Christchurch fest bringing artisan foods & locally crafted spirits to the town

Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show to make its return this August – lineup soon to be announced!

Making the magic happen! Fiona steps up as CEO of global attractions brand Merlin

Happy hearts at Dorset Heavy Horse Farm Park as critically endangered Suffolk Punch filly is born

Jongleurs Comedy set to take over Bournemouth Pier on St Paddy’s weekend for night of stand-up

All Hospitality & Tourism Stories »

Latest Posts

Saffery Senior Manager Matt Trowbridge looks at business exit planning and we meet Audit Assistant Elisa Cordial

Skyborne to launch second UK pilot academy in Bournemouth after flyaway success in Gloucs

Podcast which has hosted football royalty and SAS legend finds new home at Smartbase

Business mentor Erin to host 7th annual event backing women entrepreneurs in Bournemouth

Biz Roundtable: Dorset business community must champion county’s economic strengths

All Latest News »