Hotplate - March 2025

BUSINESS OUTLOOK SEMINAR

Don’t miss the inside track on all things hotel related on 8th April

PLUS Housekeepers rewarded, Taste of Tourism photos, Member News and much more

BUSINESS OUTLOOK SEMINAR

YOUR CHANCE TO GET THE INSIDE TRACK ON HOTEL PERFORMANCE, EXPANSION AND PROMOTION, ALL HELPING TO BUILD A SUSTAINABLE SECTOR.

MEMBER LUNCH

Celebrations and refurbishments from members across the country.

Northern Ireland Hotels Federation

The McCune Building, 1 Shore Road Belfast BT15 3PG

Tel: 028 9077 6635 Web: nihf.co.uk

Email: office@nihf.co.uk

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Where has the time gone! As I enter the sixth month of my presidency, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the board, the NIHF team, and all of you for your kindness and support as I have settled into this role.

It has been a busy time at the Federation. We recently held our first Networking Lunch of 2025 and were delighted to welcome Ian Snowden, Permanent Secretary from the Department for the Economy. In his address, he provided insights into the 10-Year Tourism Vision and Action Plan, which outlines an ambitious future for our industry over the next decade. The NIHF has played a key role in shaping this plan as part of the Tourism Partnership Board, and we look forward to contributing to its success. We are pleased to see tourism featured in the Programme for Government and are eager to work with our new Economy Minister, Minister Archibald, as she builds upon the strong foundation laid by her predecessor, Conor Murphy.

The Taste of Tourism Summit was a fantastic event, featuring renowned chef Tom Brown, an outstanding artisan market

supported by DEARA, and a dynamic food-focused program. The Housekeeping Awards, held on March 19th at the La Mon Hotel, provided a wonderful opportunity to recognize and celebrate the dedication of professionals in this essential department. A special thank you to all our sponsors for supporting these events and for your continued contributions throughout the year.

Looking ahead, the Business Outlook event at the Clandeboye Lodge on the 9th April promises to be as informative as ever. With a lineup of exceptional speakers and a formidable panel discussing the theme of “Build, Buy & Borrow,” it is sure to provide valuable insights. I hope you will be able to join us on the day.

We have an exciting year ahead, with a busy calendar of events, training initiatives, and networking opportunities. I extend my sincere gratitude to the NIHF office team for their tireless efforts and for ensuring that our events and meetings are such a consistent success.

The start of the year has proven to be a challenging one, with business levels comparable to pre-COVID

NIHF DIARY DATES 2025

1st April

Receptionist Assessment

Clayton Hotel Belfast

8th April

Business Outlook Seminar

Clandeboye Lodge Hotel

29th April

Receptionist Interviews

Clayton Hotel Belfast

21st May

Receptionist Dinner

Ebrington Hotel

10th June

Golf Day

Doubletree by Hilton

18th June

Networking Lunch

Crowne Plaza Belfast

times. However, as we move into spring, there is a sense of cautious optimism. We eagerly anticipate the return of annual events and concerts, culminating in the highly anticipated 153rd Open at Royal Portrush, which will bring significant economic benefits to Northern Ireland.

I look forward to working alongside all of you throughout the coming year and wish you every success in 2025.

13th October

Chef Dinner

Merchant Hotel

14th-15th October

Hospitality Exchange

Crowne Plaza Belfast

£2BN TO PLAY FOR

NORTH AMERICA – NORTHERN IRELAND HAS A LOT TO PLAY FOR

Tourism has gained prominence on the government agenda since the Executive’s return. Former Economy Minister Conor Murphy established the Tourism Partnership Board and launched the 10-Year Plan: Tourism Vision and Tourism in January. This ambitious plan aims to increase tourism expenditure beyond £2 billion by 2025. The sector is now part of the Programme for Government, underscoring its role in building a globally competitive and sustainable economy. Tourism’s ability to create jobs across all levels and throughout the region strengthens its appeal as a key economic driver.

Expanding tourism is commendable, but the sector must attract more overseas visitors to meet the £2 billion target. The key question is: where will this growth come from? The US is Northern Ireland’s second-largest overseas market for visitor numbers, overnight stays, and spending. In 2023, Northern Ireland welcomed 141,000 US tourists, who spent £52 million (source: NISRA). In summer 2025, the island of Ireland will have 21 direct flights

from the US, supported by extensive promotions. Reports from 2024 indicate a longer travel season, with visitors arriving not just for St. Patrick’s Day but also Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

While the US market remains strong, concerns persist about over-reliance and vulnerability to exchange rate fluctuations. Despite deep ties with America, shifts in presidency or economic policy could impact visitor numbers. However, Northern Ireland is well-placed to capitalise on 2025’s opportunities. While it attracts fewer visitors than Dublin, the Open Championship will elevate its global profile. The event is particularly appealing to North Americans, given golf’s popularity in the US. Beyond the tournament, Northern Ireland has a chance to cement itself as a top golf destination.

American football is another US tourism driver. Dublin will again host the Aer Lingus College Football Classic on August 23, 2025, at Aviva Stadium, featuring K-State vs. Iowa State. Additionally, history will be made on September 28, 2025, when

EMERGING TOURISM TRENDS

Townsizing: A trend where travellers choose to visit lesserknown urban destinations, immersing themselves in local culture rather than mainstream tourist hotspots.

3G Travel: A growing trend of multi-generational vacations, where grandparents, parents, and grandchildren travel together. A variation of this is Gramping, where grandparents take their grandchildren on trips without the parents.

the Pittsburgh Steelers play the firstever NFL regular season game in Dublin at Croke Park. The Steelers’ opponent will be announced in May. These major sporting events boost tourism, with many visitors incorporating Northern Ireland into their itineraries. Increasingly, college football fans base themselves in Northern Ireland or visit as part of their trip.

Northern Ireland also has strong ties with Canada, benefiting from direct summer charter flights. Connectivity via Dublin remains strong, and with targeted Northern Ireland promotions, the region is wellpositioned to capitalise on these opportunities and meet the £2 billion tourism target by 2025.

With a compelling tourism offering and rich historic links, Northern Ireland is well-placed to attract visitors and achieve its ambitious goals.

Set-Jetting: A travel trend where tourists visit film or TV locations as part of their vacation—often the primary motivation for their trip.

ROE VALLEY RESORT

» Galgorm Collection has unveiled the first of four £5 million investment programmes in Roe Valley Resort including a giant-sized Helter Skelter and soft play area, brand-new kids’ park, arcade, and pool slides.

NIHF MEMBER NEWS

BALLYGALLY CASTLE HOTEL

To celebrate 400 years of Ballygally Castle, the hotel has announced that it is due to complete a £400,000 investment programme later this month ahead of a programme of events and festivities which are set to take place throughout 2025.

Included in the most recent investment from Hastings Hotels, is the renovation of 18 Coastal Rooms and the Antrim Suite, including new carpets, fabrics and furnishings throughout. The castle’s private dining space, the 1625 Room, has been renovated, and the lounge furniture has been upgraded.

Bushmills Inn has been awarded the esteemed StaySmart accreditation, a recognition of its ongoing commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices. This initiative, developed and monitored by Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council, highlights their dedication to environmental stewardship and their efforts to create a positive impact both locally and globally.

Some of their sustainability initiatives include reducing single-use plastics, implementing energy-efficient technologies, sourcing local and seasonal produce and supporting local charities and schools with community events.

The Irish Football Association has confirmed details of its plans to create a new state-of-the-art, multi-million pound National Football Centre as part of a significant strategic investment which will inspire a new generation to reach their full potential.

Located on a 50-acre site opposite Galgorm near Ballymena, the new facility expects to feature worldclass pitches and cutting-edge training facilities, fully realising the association’s ambition to create a project that will become the beating heart of Northern Ireland’s football community, supporting both elite and grassroots players.

TOURISM NI CEO TO STEP DOWN

IS TO STEP DOWN AFTER 10 YEARS IN THE POST

John McGrillen, who joined Tourism NI as CEO in July 2015, announced that he will formally leave the role at the end of July following The 153rd Open at Royal Portrush.

John’s exit from the organisation marks the end of a 30-year-career in the public sector in a number of high-profile leadership roles.

During his tenure as CEO of Tourism NI, he oversaw the return of The Open to Northern Ireland in 2019, the first time in more than 60 years. He also played a pivotal role in the recovery of the local tourism industry from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The recruitment process to appoint a new CEO of Tourism NI has now begun.

Meanwhile, the Department for the Economy has today

announced that Ellvena Graham has been reappointed to serve a second term as Board Chair of the organisation. Ms Graham first took up the position of Chair in 2022.

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Rewarding the best housekeeping teams.

HOUSEKEEPING WINNERS

The Federation is delighted to celebrate the success of its 14th annual Housekeeping Awards, honouring the exceptional contributions of housekeeping teams and individuals across the region. This year’s event introduced an exciting new format, featuring fresh challenges and categories to showcase the skills, dedication and teamwork essential to the hospitality industry.

Vicky Green, President, said: “The Housekeeping Awards are a highlight of our calendar, providing a platform to recognise and reward the remarkable efforts of housekeeping professionals. The introduction of new individual and team competitions this year ensured a comprehensive celebration of the talent within our industry.”

The competition featured two major categories: the Housekeeping Team of the Year, judged through a surprise inspection of the premises, and the Housekeeper of the Year,

assessed during a dedicated evaluation day.

The assessment day took place at room2 Belfast Hometel, where participants demonstrated their expertise and commitment to excellence. The winners were announced at a prestigious awards dinner on 19th March 2025 at La Mon Hotel in Belfast. Hosted by Cool FM’s Rebecca McKinney, the event welcomed leading industry professionals and supporters for an evening of celebration and recognition.

Winners

Hotels with under 75 rooms: Winner: Belmore Court & Motel Runner-up: Bushmills Inn Hotel Third place: Bishop’s Gate Hotel

Hotels with 75-149 rooms:

Winner: Titanic Hotel Belfast

Joint Runner-up: Maldron Belfast

International Airport

Joint Runner-up: Ten Square Hotel

Hotels with 150 rooms and over: Winner: Holiday Inn Belfast

Runner-up: Room2 Belfast Third place: Hilton Belfast

Housekeeper of the Year: Winner: Neringa Deikute, Slieve Donard

Runner-up: Anita Czup-Jaczewska, Holiday Inn Belfast

Third place: Piotr Irytowski, Malmaison Belfast

The awards dinner was a memorable evening, featuring a drinks reception, a three-course meal and entertainment, celebrating the dedication and achievements of housekeeping professionals.

This year’s competition was proudly supported by Tourism Northern Ireland, Bunzl Rafferty Guest Amenities, Linencare, King Koil Beds and Bath Fitter. Each sponsor remains committed to recognising and advancing excellence in housekeeping.

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TOURISM USA

TOURISM IRELAND LAUNCHES 2025 MARKETING PLANS IN NEW YORK

Tourism Ireland in the United States recently launched its marketing plans for 2025, at an event in New York attended by leading tour operators, airlines and journalists from the tri-State area.

The US is the second most important overseas market for Northern Ireland in terms of trips, nights and spend by tourists. In 2023, we welcomed 141,000 tourists from the US to Northern Ireland, who spent £52 million during their stay here (source: NISRA).

Tourism Ireland will invest in an extensive and targeted programme of activity in the United States throughout 2025. Sustainable development is at the core of Tourism Ireland’s plans for the year ahead, so there will be continued focus on attracting tourists who have ‘value adding tourism traits’ –people who are likely to see more, do more, enjoy more and therefore spend more when they visit.

New for 2025 is ‘Slow Tourism Month’, in June. Tourism Ireland will enable more exploration, with trip ideas that allow for dwell time in communities and scenery and

that can be enjoyed by rail, EVs, bus or with tour partners, winning overnight stays across regions.

Tourism Ireland’s ‘Fill your heart with Ireland’ campaign will deliver an estimated 289 million opportunities to see in the US in 2025. The campaign is running on multiple channels, including on TV in key gateway cities, Connected TV (including Amazon and, Disney+), as well as on social and digital.

Sporting moments present key opportunities. 2025 is an important year for golf, as Northern Ireland hosts The Open at Royal Portrush in July. Partnerships with leading US golf media will be rolled out to leverage the tourism potential of this prestigious sporting event.

Tourism Ireland’s focus is on increasing the value of overseas tourism, sustainably supporting economies, communities and the environment – by inspiring potential US visitors and strengthening strategic partnerships.

Alison Metcalfe, Tourism Ireland’s Head of North America, said: “Looking to the year ahead, we have an ambitious marketing programme

to support a healthy tourism industry through the regional and season spread of visitors. This year, there are direct flights from 21 different US gateways, including new services from Detroit, Indianapolis and Nashville, which will certainly help drive growth.

“We will be launching a new campaign to elevate ‘brand Ireland’ and win hearts, minds and trips. We will be collaborating with our valued airline partners to support demand for routes to the island of Ireland. With 80% of visitors researching and booking trips online, we will be sharing daily inspiration with our followers on social media and supporting deep research visits on our website, increasingly optimised for AI. Working with US broadcasters, we look forward to TV and streaming shows featuring reasons to visit that will air to key audiences. Sporting moments like The Open at Royal Portrush present key opportunities, with promotional programmes already under way. Festivals create additional moments to spotlight, as we win holidays from US visitors to grow the benefits of tourism across the year.”

Business Outlook Seminar

SPEAKERS AT THE READY

THE BUSINESS OUTLOOK SEMINAR IS ALWAYS ONE OF OUR MOST POPULAR EVENTS, HELPING HOTELIERS TO NAVIGATE HOTEL PERFORMANCE, MARKETING AND FINANCIAL GROWTH.

This year’s event will once again feature a broad and experienced speaking team. Here’s who you can expect to see on 8th April.

eimear callaGHan, touriSm ni

Eimear is Tourism NI’s Head of Experience and Industry Development, charged with developing Northern Ireland’s tourism proposition through supporting experiences & businesses.

An award-winning TV reporter, Mark is currently a TV reporter for the flagship evening news programme BBC Newsline.

ricHarD ramSey, economiSt Richard Ramsey is a well-known face and voice in Northern Ireland, commenting on a range of economic and business issues over the years.

neil aulton, touriSm irelanD

Neil heads up the Strategy & Insights team at Tourism Ireland, monitoring tourism to the island of Ireland from our key markets around the world.

Janice Gault, niHF

A graduate of Trinity College Dublin holding a BA Hons and a Post Graduate Diploma in Management, Janice took up the role of CEO in 2002.

raJeSH rana, anDraS HouSe

A Director of Andras House, Rajesh trained as an architect and worked in the field of urban design and master planning. Titanic Quarter was a project Rajesh worked on from its initial inception.

neal morriSon, SavillS

As a director of general agency, he covers development, industrial, student, private rented sector and residential property matters.

SaraH DuiGnan, Str Sarah departed Irish shores in May 2005 having spent 7 years in hotel operations. As Director of Client Relationships, Sarah regularly presents at hotel group and industry events.

tiarnan o’neill, GalGorm collection

Tiarnán is Group Finance Director of Galgorm Collection. Previously he spent ten years with PwC, and was COO of one of Northern Irelands largest charities.

Sian younG, britvic irelanD

A graduate of the University of Oxford, Sian is an experienced marketeer and sustainability specialist who has worked at Britvic for over 18 years.

Business Outlook Seminar

The essential update on hotel performance, future projections, and expansion amid evolving market conditions.

Clandeboye Lodge Hotel

Tuesday 8th April 2025

Welcome, Introductions

The Hotel Report NIHF on growth & trends

9.15 am to 2.00 pm including networking lunch Tea & Coffee & Breakfast

Join veteran journalist Mark Simpson as we explore the latest trends and opportunities shaping the hospitality industry.

This event will delve into emerging market segments, strategies to enhance the industry’s image, and key insights from STR on hotel performance and forecasts.

We’ll also introduce a new employer-driven initiative designed to boost employee engagement and strengthen workplace appeal. Additionally, we’ll examine ways to attract visitors seeking authentic tourism experiences, alongside an expert economic outlook.

Ideal for general managers, as well as professionals in hotel sales, marketing, and revenue management, this event offers valuable insights for anyone looking to better understand the current market landscape.

Tickets

£65 plus VAT for NIHF Members

£95 plus VAT for non-members

Book online at nihf.co.uk

Free report on hotel investment, growth and trends for every delegate.

Northern Ireland Hotels Federation

The McCune Building, 1 Shore Road, Belfast BT15 3PG

Tel: 028 9077 6635 Email: office@nihf.co.uk

Hotel Performance 2025 Sarah Duignan, STR

Build, Buy and Borrow Panel Discussion

Coffee Break

Employer Excellence

Eimear Callaghan, Tourism NI

Enrichment Explorers Neil Aulton, Tourism Ireland

Elevating Experiences Sustainably Sian Young, Britvic Ireland

Economics in Uncertain Times

Richard Ramsey

Networking Lunch

Event Finish

The Business Outlook Seminar is supported by

TOURISM ACTION PLAN

MINISTER ARCHIBALD CONTINUES WORK ON HER DEPARTMENT’S VISION AND ACTION PLAN

Northern Ireland’s Tourism Vision & Action Plan outlines an ambitious roadmap for the next decade, setting a target of exceeding £2 billion in tourism expenditure from overnight visitors by 2035. For hotels, this plan represents both opportunities and challenges.

A key focus is on regional balance, ensuring that investment and visitor spending are spread beyond Belfast. This includes funding for new attractions, improved transport links, and expanding accommodation outside the capital. Hotels in rural and coastal areas may benefit from increased visitor flows as a result.

The plan also prioritises good jobs, aiming to make hospitality a more attractive career path through

skills development initiatives. This could lead to a better-trained workforce but also places pressure on hotels to improve working conditions and pay.

Sustainability is another pillar, with measures to help hotels reduce their carbon footprint, including a sustainability recognition scheme to promote eco-friendly practices.

While the plan presents exciting growth potential, challenges remain, particularly in licensing laws, workforce shortages, and the cost of compliance. Hoteliers will need to adapt swiftly to maximise the benefits of this vision while ensuring profitability in an evolving industry.

Caoimhe Archibald has been named Economy Minister in a Sinn Féin Executive reshuffle following Conor Murphy’s resignation.

Former Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd will take over Archibald’s previous role as Minister of Finance, while his former position will be filled by Liz Kimmins.

Murphy resigned from Stormont after being elected to the Seanad, the upper chamber of the Irish Parliament.

Webb Wonders

Musings from the Federation’s Economic Advisor

TARIFF TALK

American visitors have long been a valuable part of Northern Ireland’s tourism industry. Whether retracing family roots, visiting iconic Game of Thrones filming locations, or simply enjoying a warm welcome in Belfast’s pubs, they arrive in healthy numbers—and spend accordingly.

However, with Donald Trump’s return to the White House, Northern Ireland finds itself facing renewed uncertainties in the sphere of U.S. trade policy, tariffs, and foreign direct investment (FDI). Will this uncertainty spread to tourism? I’m not necessarily thinking about a tourist tariff (but we could argue that ETIAs act as such) and more wondering of US tourists will stay home given all the rhetoric about trade wars and wider global uncertainty.

In the twelve months to June 2024, there were 218,000 overnight trips from North American visitors, and their economic contribution was significant. Tourism NI data shows that U.S. tourists tend to stay longer and spend more per trip than their counterparts from Great Britain or the Republic of Ireland. They help support jobs in hospitality, transport, and attractions—sectors that don’t need more obstacles to recovery.

Unlike some European destinations that struggle with “overtourism,” we are still working to grow our visitor economy. Northern Ireland’s tourism strategy emphasises increasing overseas tourism revenue by an average of 6.5% annually until 2030, aiming to double the revenue to approximately £1.3 billion by 2035. The US market is important in seeking to meet that ambition, evidenced by the Economy Minister’s recent trip to Boston where she promoted NI as a leading location for innovation, investment and international trade, as well as a great place to visit. She noted that “The United States is an extremely important market for our tourism sector and I am determined to continue to grow American visitor numbers to our regions in the years ahead.”

The importance of the US market for our tourism sector and our efforts to get more tourists here is further underscored by Fly Atlantic, a new low-cost carrier based at Belfast International Airport, and their plans to commence transatlantic flights to North America. This development to enhance connectivity between Northern Ireland and North America can make a significant difference boosting tourism.

While there’s no mention of tariffs extending from Trump’s focus on goods, new travel-related charges are now in place. The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Scheme) requires visitors to the UK from a range of countries, including the US, to pay to enter. This is not dissimilar to the ETSA we have to pay to enter the US, but the real pain point for us is that US visitors to the south aren’t faced with this charge. Key findings from recent Tourism Ireland Sentiment Research across international markets found that due to the introduction of the ETA requirements 1 in 5 people in North America say they would make the decision not to travel.

What is becoming increasingly evident is that tariffs aren’t just a story for the financial pages. They have real consequences for businesses and consumers. When trade routes are disrupted, costs rise, investment stalls, and economic confidence erodes. How far current trade wars impact on would be US visitors appetite to travel remains to be seen but what is clear is that imposing additional costs on people to come here runs counter to our tourism ambitions.

a celebration of Local Food and Drink

The Taste of Tourism Summit 2025, at the Culloden Estate and Spa, has once again highlighted the vital role of food and drink in shaping Northern Ireland’s tourism and hospitality industry.

Bringing together renowned chefs, industry leaders and food producers, the event provided a platform for discussing key sector trends, sustainability and innovation. This year’s summit featured acclaimed chef Tom Brown, whose passion for seasonal and sustainable was reflected in his discussion with summit compere Pamela Ballantine.

The event featured an artisan market supported by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) under the NI Regional Food Programme, with the summit placing a strong focus on local food provenance, sustainability and the economic impact of Northern Ireland’s thriving food and drink

sector. Legenderry Food and Taste the Mournes collaborated with local chef Paula McIntyre to showcase the benefits of local produce and celebrate the region’s unique and outstanding food heritage.

Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir MLA, welcomed the summit’s focus on sustainability and local produce: “Northern Ireland is home to an agri-food sector that produces world-class ingredients forming the backbone of our tourism and hospitality industry. Events like the Taste of Tourism Summit celebrate our local food heritage while championing sustainable practices that protect our environment and rural communities. DAERA is proud to support an initiative that not only showcases our outstanding local producers but also drives economic growth and innovation within the industry.”

Throughout the day, expert speakers, including restaurant critic Corinna Hardgrave, food tourism advocate John Mulcahy and drinks expert Carmen O’Neal, shared insights into evolving food trends, the rise of low and no-alcohol beverages and the importance of talent retention in hospitality.

Chef Niall McKenna, who has just launched his first cookbook, ‘What’s It All About’, was among the panellists at the summit. He joined discussions on the evolving culinary landscape, sharing insights into his journey and the inspiration behind his new book.

With networking, expert discussions and a celebration of Northern Ireland’s culinary strengths, the Taste of Tourism Summit 2025 has once again reinforced the importance of innovation, sustainability and collaboration in driving the future of food tourism.

The Taste of Tourism Summit was supported by

TASTE OF TOURISM DINNER

with Tom Brown

in association with Bunzl McLaughlin

Culloden Estate & Spa

Monday 10th March 2025

THE FEDERATION’S ANNUAL SEARCH FOR THE BEST IN CUSTOMER SERVICE IS NOW ON.

Originally created in the 1970s and re-launched in 2004, this competition is about recognising the very best in customer service in a vital role for all hotels. Challenging, but fun, with great team building and personal development.

The Assessment Day for individual entrants is on 1st April in the Clayton Hotel Belfast, further interviews are on 29th April and the Gala Awards are on 21st May in the Ebrington Hotel.

There is also a team competition with mystery shops.

Entry has now closed for this year’s competition.

The awards were launched by Clio O’Gara, Guestline, Stephen Gillespie, Derry City & Strabane District Council, Vicky Green, President, David Anderson, Insight6 and Eimear Callaghan, Tourism NI.

The Receptionist Awards are supported by

MEMBER LUNCH

MEMBERS AND TRADE GATHERED IN TITANIC HOTEL BELFAST FOR THE FEDERATION’S BI-ANNUAL NETWORKING LUNCH

OVERSEAS VISITORS NEED OTA

2ND APRIL IMPLEMENTATION OF NEW TRAVEL AUTHORISATION SCHEME

The UK Government has launched the final phase of its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) rollout, a move designed to digitise the UK’s border and immigration system. As of March 5, 2024, all eligible European visitors can apply for an ETA, which will be a mandatory requirement for travel to the UK, including Northern Ireland, from April 2, 2025.

What is an ETA?

An ETA is a digital travel authorisation that visitors must obtain before entering the UK. The current cost is £10 per person, including babies and young children, but this is set to rise to £16 in the coming months. The application process is relatively quick and can be completed online, but every traveller, regardless of age, must have one.

Who is Exempt from the ETA Requirement?

While most non-visa visitors will require an ETA, there are exceptions:

• British and Irish citizens.

• Legal residents of Ireland from non-visa national countries (e.g., EU and US citizens) travelling within the Common Travel Area (CTA) with proof of residency.

• Children travelling as part of an organised French school trip.

• Transit passengers who remain ‘airside’ at UK airports. Those who pass through UK border control (‘landside’) will require an ETA, even if they do not leave the airport.

The Northern Ireland Tourism Challenge

is closely linked with the Republic of Ireland (RoI), and both regions are marketed as a single, seamless travel destination. Previously, EU tourists could enter RoI with a national ID card and travel freely across the island. However, with the introduction of the ETA, these visitors will now need a passport and an ETA to visit Northern Ireland, creating a barrier for the many who do not hold a passport.

This change is already causing a decline in day trips and tour itineraries that include Northern Ireland. Many European visitors, particularly those travelling for leisure or educational purposes, rely on national ID cards rather than passports, and the added requirement is prompting cancellations. Tour operators are now reconsidering the feasibility of including Northern Ireland in their packages due to administrative burdens, legal uncertainties, and rising costs.

Industry Response and Economic Impact

The Northern Ireland Tourism Alliance (NITA) is actively lobbying for a temporary exemption for tourists visiting Northern Ireland. We are gathering data to highlight the impact the ETA requirement is already having on visitor numbers and the broader economy to support our case for an exemption. According to 2023 figures from the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) and Tourism Ireland, international visitors (excluding those from Great Britain) contributed £209 million in visitor spending, accounting for 20% of total tourism revenue. A staggering

82% of these visitors came from the US, Canada, and mainland Europe. A decline in these numbers due to ETA requirements could have long-term repercussions for jobs and revenue.

What’s Next?

With the April 2025 implementation date fast approaching, the tourism industry is calling for greater flexibility in the ETA system to prevent unintended damage to Northern Ireland’s visitor economy. While the UK government aims to enhance border security, industry stakeholders stress that the tourism sector cannot afford to be an unintended casualty. The fight for an exemption continues to ensure Northern Ireland remains an attractive and accessible destination for international travellers.

REVIEW OF LIQUOR LICENSING SYSTEM

RECENT DEPARTMENT FOR COMMUNITIES REPORT HIGHLIGHTS CHALLENGES AHEAD FOR LICENSING

The hospitality sector in Northern Ireland has long been shaped by stringent licensing laws, with recent reforms aiming to modernise the industry. The latest licensing review report has hoteliers assessing its impact on their businesses. While some reforms are welcomed, others raise concerns about viability and long-term trends.

Extended Opening Hours: A Mixed Bag

The Licensing and Registration of Clubs (Amendment) Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 allows hotels, pubs, and other licensed premises to extend opening hours. Hotels offering food and entertainment can apply to serve alcohol until 2am up to 104 nights per year, with a ‘drinking up’ time until 3am.

While aligning NI’s licensing laws with the UK and Ireland, uptake has been lower than expected. Many hoteliers find the costs—staff wages, security, and utilities—outweigh the financial benefits. Additionally, limited late-night transport options make extended hours less viable, as guests struggle to get home.

Easter Opening Reforms: A Win for Tourism

Strict Easter licensing laws previously restricted alcohol sales, impacting hotels catering to tourists. New rules now allow alcohol sales in line with standard trading hours. This change aligns NI with other tourist-friendly destinations, resolving a longstanding frustration for hoteliers and visitors.

The Surrender Principle

Northern Ireland’s Surrender Principle mandates that new pub or off-licence applications require the surrender of an existing licence. Over time, this has reduced pub numbers, with many licences transferred to off-licences, particularly in supermarkets and convenience stores. While it caps total licences, critics argue it limits market flexibility, stifles innovation, and disproportionately affects smaller or rural establishments.

The Economic and Social Impact

The report highlights a decline in traditional pubs, while hotels and restaurants remain steady. Unlike pubs, hotels maintain stable employment and turnover, benefiting from diversified hospitality services such as accommodation and dining, which provide resilience against market fluctuations.

However, the report raises concerns over alcohol-related harms. With NI’s alcohol-related mortality rates exceeding those in England and Wales, policymakers remain cautious about increasing accessibility. Future licensing liberalisation will likely be assessed against public health priorities.

Looking Ahead

For hotels, the review presents both challenges and opportunities. While extended hours and Easter reforms provide flexibility, financial and logistical barriers may limit adoption. Hoteliers must assess how these changes align with business

models and guest expectations.

As discussions continue, industry stakeholders should advocate for further refinements—such as improved late-night transport— to ensure reforms benefit the hospitality sector. Meanwhile, Northern Ireland’s hotels must navigate these regulatory changes with optimism and caution.

It is our opinion that it is highly unlikely that the proposed changes will be implemented. Removing the Surrender Principle would radically alter on- and off-licences, potentially devaluing licences as balance sheet assets.

Linus Murray and Andrea McCann have joined a Law Society SubCommittee to prepare a response, which will be shared with the Hotels Federation members in the coming weeks. Stakeholders must lobby and make submissions to Stormont politicians to ensure their concerns are heard.

If you have any queries please contact Linus Murray OR Andrea McCann at McKees on 028 9023 2303 or linus.murray@mckees-law. com or andrea.mccann@mckeeslaw.com

Business Outlook Seminar

The essential update on hotel performance, future projections, and expansion amid evolving market conditions.

Clandeboye Lodge Hotel

Tuesday 8th April 2025

9.15 am to 2.00 pm including networking lunch

Join veteran journalist Mark Simpson as we explore the latest trends and opportunities shaping the hospitality industry.

This event will delve into emerging market segments, strategies to enhance the industry’s image, and key insights from STR on hotel performance and forecasts.

We’ll also introduce a new employer-driven initiative designed to boost employee engagement and strengthen workplace appeal. Additionally, we’ll examine ways to attract visitors seeking authentic tourism experiences, alongside an expert economic outlook.

Ideal for general managers, as well as professionals in hotel sales, marketing, and revenue management, this event offers valuable insights for anyone looking to better understand the current market landscape.

Tickets

£65 plus VAT for NIHF Members

£95 plus VAT for non-members

Book online at nihf.co.uk

Free report on hotel investment, growth and trends for every delegate.

Northern Ireland Hotels Federation

The McCune Building, 1 Shore Road, Belfast BT15 3PG Tel: 028 9077 6635 Email: office@nihf.co.uk

Tea & Coffee & Breakfast

Welcome, Introductions

The Hotel Report NIHF on growth & trends

Hotel Performance 2025 Sarah Duignan, STR

Build, Buy and Borrow Panel Discussion

Coffee Break

Employer Excellence

Eimear Callaghan, Tourism NI

Enrichment Explorers

Neil Aulton, Tourism Ireland

Elevating Experiences Sustainably Sian Young, Britvic Ireland

Economics in Uncertain Times

Richard Ramsey

Networking Lunch

Event Finish

The Business Outlook Seminar is supported by