I first joined the board of Hospitality Ulster because I believed our industry deserved a stronger voice and I wanted to help in whatever way I could. For too long, hospitality in Northern Ireland hadn’t been recognised for the vital role it plays – not just in economic terms, but in shaping the very social fabric of our communities. I wanted to help promote the full value of what we do: the jobs we create, the opportunities we offer, and the contribution we make to life here.

Having worked on both sides of the sector – as a supplier and as an operator – I felt I could bring a broad perspective to the table. I’ve seen the industry at its best and its most challenging, right through difficult, dark times, and I’ve always believed that collaboration is the only way forward. Working collectively through Hospitality Ulster gives us a chance to present a united front and to highlight the professionalism, creativity, and resilience that define our sector.

Becoming Chair was never a specific ambition, but when the opportunity came, I was happy to take on the responsibility. The role allowed me to work closely with the Chief Executive and to engage directly with decision-makers – to help shape strategy, policy, and advocacy in a more hands-on way. I’ve always tried to lead from experience and with conviction, and I’ve been proud to work alongside a strong board that represents the breadth of our industry.

Before the turn of the century, people’s understanding of the hospitality industry and what it could deliver was lost. It has taken us a while to build it back up to be seen as a reputable and essential section of the economy here in Northern Ireland.

We’ve made good progress in recent years, but challenges remain. Costs continue to rise, and VAT remains one of the biggest barriers to growth and investment. Without reform, operators will struggle to sustain their businesses, let alone expand or create new jobs, but the Executive having no control over VAT means that we are making our case through sister organisations like UK Hospitality.

Despite these hurdles, the future holds huge potential. Hospitality has always been at the heart of human connection – people will always want to meet, eat, and share experiences. Northern Ireland has some of the finest raw ingredients and products anywhere, and a reputation for warmth, music, and culture that’s second to none. The key is making sure we have the skills, training, and career pathways to match that potential, something we’ve been working on with partners like Belfast Met.

We have a strong board, and we are always looking at how we can improve the range of voices that we have. We have made great progress in terms of being an organisation that speaks for the industry as a whole; the number of restaurants and hotels that are now part of Hospitality Ulster is a good sign of that.

Making our voice heard, whilst ensuing we are not constantly portraying negative predictions for the industry is a constant balance. We do need to make sure government know our challenges, but if we are seen as a failing industry the Government will simply look to invest elsewhere as they weigh up the return on their investment. It’s a complex balance, but with commitment and collaboration, I’m confident our sector can continue to grow and thrive. Hospitality is not just an industry here; it’s part of who we are.

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As the first five-star property in the region, the Lodge will offer world-class service and seamlessly integrate with the stunning beauty of its surroundings.

Situated just outside Portrush, the lodge has opened its doors as the famous coastal town continues the countdown to hosting The 153rd Open.

With 35 luxury suites, including eight in The Stookan, its private annex for larger groups, Dunluce Lodge also has a restaurant serving à la carte dining and tasting menus, a wine vault and private dining spaces.

Leading the project is Stephen Meldrum, a seasoned hospitality professional with over 30 years of experience. His hands-on approach and deep passion for the industry are central to his vision for Dunluce Lodge, positioning it as a premier destination for discerning travellers.

From blueprint to reality

Stephen Meldrum’s involvement with Dunluce Lodge began 15 months ago when the property was still in its initial stages. “Watching the property come to life from the ground up has been truly rewarding,” Stephen shares. “I’ve been involved in everything from selecting the materials to shaping the overall guest experience. This level of input is rare, and it’s what makes this project so exciting.”

As General Manager, Stephen’s role has extended far beyond managing daily operations. He has played an instrumental part in overseeing everything from architectural decisions to designing the exact atmosphere of the lodge. “I’ve worked closely with builders, contractors, and designers to ensure that every element aligns with our vision for Dunluce Lodge,” he reflects. “It’s been an intense but incredibly fulfilling process.”

The journey to launching Dunluce Lodge has not been without its challenges. The hotel’s construction was an intricate task that required careful attention to detail, but Stephen embraced this challenge and has his sights set firmly forward. “Our priority right now is embedding the right culture so that our team feels confident in delivering the exceptional service we’re aiming for.” With this level of involvement, it’s clear that Dunluce Lodge is much more than just another hospitality venture for Stephen; it’s a labour of love that blends his deep passion for the industry with his vision of creating something extraordinary.

A vision for excellence

Stephen’s vision for Dunluce Lodge is clear: to set the bar for luxury tourism in Northern Ireland, an area that, while rich in natural beauty, has been underserved in terms of high-end accommodation and services. “Northern Ireland has so much untapped potential when it comes to high-end tourism. We want to show that luxury travellers can find something extraordinary here,” he says.

“The key to success in this industry is innovation. We don’t want to be just another hotel; we want to redefine the experience, making sure guests return time and time again.” As such, he’s committed to an evolving concept, where continuous improvement, creative thinking, and guest-centred service will drive the development of the property.

Click HERE to read full feature.

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Sustainable practices and policies are no longer seen as a nice to have, but rather primary, decision-making parameters that are changing the landscape all around us. Businesses and consumers are placing sustainability at the forefront of the decisions they make, and the tourism industry has found itself right in the heart of it.

Climate change is playing a bigger part than ever before when it comes to business decisions. For instance, major hotel group, Accor, recently made the decision not to build its planned two hotels in Mykonos, Greece because of the associated climate risks with the country.

We understand the role we have to play. Tourism is a major industry in Northern Ireland, supporting over 70k jobs and nearly 6,000 businesses, and our attitudes towards sustainability have huge knock-on effects on those around us. For tourism to become more sustainable, there are a host of things to consider but they aren’t all big. Small steps to a giant change will be what makes the difference to our environment and those within it.

From our big-hearted welcomes to our breath-taking surroundings, we have so much to offer tourists who come to our island and an eco-friendly approach will only amplify that.

Sustainable Tourism

The UN World Tourism Organisation defines sustainable tourism as ‘tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities.’

The Economy Minister’s recently published Tourism Vision and Action Plan for Northern Ireland recognised our high dependency on visitors arriving via sea and air for both business and leisure. It also stated in order to remain competitive as a tourist destination we will need to strike the balance between managing the risks associated with rising carbon prices and developing sustainable routes and connectivity of airports between target markets. The sustainability of NI’s future air connectivity is hugely important in light of the obligations of the Climate Change Act (NI) 2022 and air carriers will be expected to reduce or offset carbon emissions.

With a requirement to reach net zero by 2050, all tourism businesses in NI must play their part. By the nature of our industry and how it is made up of many smaller businesses, we understand that support is needed. 60% of attendees at our recent Tourism Enterprise Development Programme stated that Sustainability was one of the top areas that they needed support with, specifically with regard to business efficiencies and achieving green credentials.

There are positive signs and progress is being made. Belfast currently ranks in the top ten cities on the Global Destination Sustainability Index., At the heart of our experience brand, Embrace a Giant Spirit, the focus is on supporting local communities and local supply chains with the attraction of immersive and authentic experiences.

Sustainable Visitors

Recent research from Booking.com shows that over eight in ten travellers consider sustainable travel important, with three quarters wanting to travel more sustainably over the next year. 57% of travellers also plan to reduce energy consumption, with 54% wanting to use more sustainable transportation. Crucially, over seven in ten travellers say they want to leave places they visit better than when they arrive.

Tourism NI research in 2022 revealed similar results.  Just over three quarters of North and South consumers said they put at least some effort into behaving sustainably. In relation to choosing a destination for a holiday or short break, seven in ten Republic of Ireland (ROI) consumers and six in ten NI consumers said that sustainability is taken into consideration or is a key decision factor.

When it comes to being more sustainable in relation to holidays and short breaks, two in three ROI consumers and just over half of NI consumers claimed to have done something to be more sustainable on a holiday or short break. However, challenges remain, with the most commonly cited barrier being cost, followed by lack of personal knowledge.

Sustainable Business Tourism Programme 

Tourism NI is working hard to support businesses on their sustainability journey and has established a number of initiatives with practical support in mind.

The Sustainable Business Programme offers structured mentoring and training, enabling businesses across Northern Ireland to develop sustainable tourism offerings, reduce waste, water, and energy consumption, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to sustainability.

To date, Tourism NI has delivered four cohorts of the programme, supporting 53 businesses across Northern Ireland, 48 of which are based outside of Belfast. This programme is designed to build strong relationships, enhance knowledge, and establish best practices among participants, ultimately leading to a thriving cluster of sustainable tourism businesses who can confidently respond to evolving visitor expectations.

This programme supports the key theme of decarbonisation included in the Economy Minister’s recently published Tourism Vision and Action Plan for Northern Ireland. It states that the growing global demand for responsible tourism has accelerated the need to develop new and innovative products and services which are more sustainable.

Promoting tourism developments with a low environmental footprint takes into consideration the UN Sustainable Development Goals which strive for a better and more sustainable future for all through economic growth, reducing poverty, supporting cultural heritage and environmental sustainability. It also creates a network of tourism sustainable champions in local communities who are committed to these efforts, improving the experience for our tourists and also the quality of life in our communities for local businesses and people too.

Leaner and Greener Programme

Tourism NI has developed a ‘Leaner and Greener’ series which is helping those within our industry take practical steps to start their sustainability journey, whilst reducing operating costs. Delivered through workshops, online supports and practical templates, the programme focuses on energy, water, waste and food management. These sessions help businesses to understand Northern Ireland’s current standing point around climate change and biodiversity, gives advice on what steps you can take in each of these areas and the potential benefits to your business. All sessions are available to watch afterwards online at www.tourismni.com.

Best Practices in Tourism

The Boatyard Distillery is Fermanagh’s first legal distillery since 1890 and was established in 2016 by local man, Joe McGirr. In 2023, Boatyard Distillery became the first distillery on the island of Ireland to gain the prestigious B Corp Certification, an international and coveted designation that means the business is meeting high standards of verified performance, accountability, and transparency across all fronts.

Boatyard Distillery has created a culture within the business of repurposing and reusing items to combat waste, creating policies such as bottles made from recycled flint glass and business cards made from recycled coffee cups. The business also repurposes discarded fruit from gin production to make new Boatyard marmalade. The remainder of solid waste goes to composting and liquid waste goes to anaerobic digesters which give electricity back into the grid. Barrels are repurposed to make furniture and spent grain from vodka production is sent to the family farm and used to feed animals.

Placing sustainability at the heart of many business decisions, Boatyard Distillery is an excellent example of a company within the tourism industry that makes green-focused improvements where they can. They use Eco Refill Pouches that can be distributed around the world, which saved 211 glass bottles during the first three months.

Erne Water Taxi is another excellent example of sustainable tourism in Northern Ireland. Based in Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, it offers luxury guided boat trips of Lough Erne and Devenish Island. In 2015, owner Barry Flanagan invested in a fully electric boat, partly powered by solar panels attached to the roof, reducing emissions by 50%.

The initial investment required was 50-60% higher than buying a petrol-fuelled boat and taking just fuel savings into account, the business estimated a pay-back time of 10 years. However, adding solar panels, which now provide 30-40% of the energy, and taking into account the increased capacity that the electric boat offered, the payback time was reduced to just five years. The electric boat is also fully accessible, accommodating six wheelchairs and is silent, favouring visitors with auditory sensitives. It gives a peaceful opportunity to disconnect from the noise and busyness of everyday life with many visitors remarking on the sense of tranquillity they experience allowing them to hear and experience the lake’s wildlife up close.

Year on year we are seeing sustainability rise through the ranks of priorities for both businesses and visitors alike. We are seeing incredible steps being taken by our industry across the country to become more sustainable and at Tourism NI, we are here to support those who need guidance and support, whether that be for big initiatives or small everyday changes to help them progress through their sustainable journey.

The post Tourism’s sustainable journey: David Roberts, Tourism NI appeared first on Licensed & Catering News (LCN).

This marks the start of an ambitious transformation plan to elevate the guest experience and redefine luxury at the newly-rebranded resort.

Nestled beside the breathtaking Roe Valley Country Park, Roe Valley Resort is set to become the ultimate escape for families and for those seeking a destination with a difference.

The first £5 million investment gets under way this year in two phases.

From June, younger guests can look forward to an array of thrilling new features that are packed with adventure. From a giant-sized Helter Skelter and soft play area to a brand-new kids’ park, arcade, and thrilling pool slides, the resort is introducing next-level entertainment for younger visitors which can be accessed by both hotel residents and day visitors.

Culinary enthusiasts will also be in for a treat this June as Galgorm Collection brings its acclaimed Italian restaurant, Fratelli, to the North West for the first time. Designed as a welcoming space for both locals and resort guests, Fratelli will offer a warm, family-friendly atmosphere where children can enjoy making their own pizzas, adding a fun and interactive dining experience.

Later this year, in the second-phase investment, for those seeking even more indulgent relaxation, Roe Valley Resort will unveil a stunning new bar and adult-only spa, providing a tranquil escape for guests which will be open in time for Christmas.

Golf lovers can also anticipate enhancements to the award-winning PGA-standard 18-hole golf course later this year, reinforcing Roe Valley Resort’s status as one of the island’s top golfing destinations.

This exciting redevelopment follows Galgorm Collection’s landmark £28 million acquisition of Roe Valley Resort and Galgorm Castle Estate last November. The group has committed a multi-million-pound investment programme over the next five years to elevate both properties to new heights.

Welcoming the plans, Colin Johnston, Managing Director, Galgorm Collection, said:

“Roe Valley Resort has long been a cherished destination, known for its stunning setting, warm hospitality, and exceptional golf and spa experiences. This investment allows us to build on that legacy, enhancing the resort’s unique charm while introducing exciting new features that will appeal to loyal guests, the local community, and new visitors alike.”

“Our vision is to elevate Roe Valley Resort as one of Northern Ireland’s most sought-after destinations, offering even more for guests to experience and enjoy. We look forward to unveiling these exciting developments while ensuring the resort continues to provide the outstanding service and character it is known for.”

Steeped in history, Roe Valley Resort occupies a 150-acre estate that was once home to an 18th-century manor house and the first hydroelectric power station in Ireland.

While the original manor house has been meticulously restored, the resort today boasts 118 beautifully appointed bedrooms, an award-winning 18-hole parkland golf course, a driving range, spa, restaurant, stylish bar, and range of conference and banqueting spaces. Additionally, the resort offers three residences for guests seeking a more private retreat.

Perfectly positioned on the edge of Limavady town, Roe Valley Resort offers easy access to some of Northern Ireland’s most spectacular landscapes. Framed by the majestic Sperrin Mountains to the south and the dramatic Atlantic coastline to the north, the region boasts wide sandy beaches, rolling green valleys, and scenic hiking trails, making it an unparalleled escape for adventure and relaxation.

With Roe Valley Resort entering a thrilling new chapter, guests can expect an unparalleled blend of luxury, adventure, and relaxation like never before.

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With a mission to provide unforgettable experiences, the group has transformed venues such as McCracken’s Bar—now the award-winning Henry’s & The Jailhouse—alongside other renowned sites like Pug Uglys, Margot, Fountain Lane, Whites Tavern, The Bone Yard, and the recently launched Whites Garden. Combining history, culture, and innovation, The Clover Group aims to lead the way in delivering the world-renowned warmth of Irish hospitality while continuously expanding its presence in Northern Ireland’s hospitality scene.

In celebration of International Women’s Day, LCN sat down with Abigail Bolton, Head of Marketing at The Clover Group, to discuss the company’s ongoing efforts to foster gender equality in the hospitality industry. This year’s theme, ‘Accelerate Action,’ serves as a powerful reminder that meaningful change requires more than just conversations—it demands tangible progress.

Turning conversations into action

“For me, ‘Accelerate Action’ is a call to move beyond discussions and actively implement strategies that foster gender equality,” Bolton explains. “It’s about creating opportunities and ensuring that progress happens now – not years down the line.”

She emphasises that The Clover Group is committed to taking proactive steps to support women in the workplace. “We are dedicated to building an inclusive environment where women have equal access to opportunities. That includes ensuring fair hiring practices, creating family-friendly policies and parental leave support, and establishing pathways for women to enter leadership roles within The Clover Group.”

Industry progress and areas for improvement

Reflecting on the hospitality industry, Bolton acknowledges that progress has been made in increasing female representation in management. “Within our own group, we have seen an uplift in females within our management teams,” she says. However, she believes that there is still much work to be done across the industry.

“In the future, it would be good to see more action around areas such as safety for women and girls, as well as better industry-wide support for women with children or those who plan to have children. We believe that addressing these issues would encourage more women to see hospitality as a viable long-term career.”

The importance of female leadership

Bolton highlights the value of diversity in leadership, stating that it fosters innovation, enhances decision-making, and improves customer experiences. “Women bring unique perspectives that enhance workplace culture. Also, representation at the top level of management can inspire the next generation of female leaders.”

Challenges women face in hospitality leadership

Despite progress, women in hospitality still face barriers when advancing into leadership roles. “Some of the biggest challenges include a lack of mentorship and work-life balance constraints, particularly in such a demanding industry,” Bolton explains.

“As a private sector business with little funding or support from the government in terms of rates and VAT, many hospitality sector contracts are constrained to statutory allowances. The allure of better maternity and paid sick packages, weekends off with the family—these factors can create retention issues among higher levels of management.”

Success stories from The Clover Group

The Clover Group has been instrumental in supporting women’s career growth, with numerous success stories within the company. “Across our six sites, we have three female general managers, and within our head office team, four out of the six female members of staff have worked their way up through the company. Additionally, we have many women in junior management roles across the company.”

One standout example is Siobhan McKenna, General Manager of Whites, The Clover Group’s largest venue. “Siobhan worked in Whites from the time she left school and has now been our General Manager for just under two years.”

Another success story is a junior marketing executive who began her career at Henry’s & The Jailhouse as a waitress in 2021. “She is currently studying at Belfast Met through an apprenticeship scheme that will result in a Foundation of Science Degree from Ulster University in Hospitality and Tourism Management—all organised through The Clover Group. She has now worked her way up to join our head office team.”

Advice for women aspiring to leadership in hospitality

Bolton encourages women looking to advance in hospitality to take charge of their own career development. “Find good mentors and build a strong network of contacts. Advocate for yourself and take on opportunities. Continue learning and improving your skills. Believe in your ability to lead and make a difference.”

Strategies for recruiting and retaining diverse talent

The Clover Group is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment. “We ensure inclusive hiring practices and provide career development opportunities, including training programmes and platforms such as Mapal and our own in-house training,” Bolton explains.

She also emphasises the importance of work-life balance. “We ensure a clear progression pathway so employees know how they can advance within the company, providing structured development plans and regular check-ins. We also encourage and support all staff members to enter cocktail competitions for personal development.”

Empowering women at every level

Bolton outlines the company’s approach to ensuring women feel supported throughout their careers. “Providing clear career progression paths, encouraging open dialogue about challenges within the workplace, recognising and celebrating achievements, and ensuring senior management provides guidance and career insights—all of these contribute to an empowering work environment.”

Training and development opportunities

Education and training play a crucial role in career advancement. “Through Belfast Met, we have courses open to all staff over the age of 16, as well as additional enrichment training options via Springfield,” Bolton notes.

The future of female leadership in hospitality

Looking ahead, Bolton envisions a future where gender equality in leadership is the norm rather than the exception. “Where gender equity is the norm rather than an exception,” she states simply.

She believes that businesses play a critical role in accelerating change by offering leadership pathways and fostering inclusive workplace cultures. “Providing leadership pathways for women and cultivating inclusive workplace cultures is essential.”

When asked about a major shift she would like to see in the next five years, Bolton highlights the need for better female representation at senior levels. “If I could see one major shift in the industry, it would be closing the gender gap at the top with better representation at higher levels. Our Operations Director, Zoe Watson, is only on the board of Hospitality Ulster as a volunteer—more women should be represented at higher levels within the industry.”

As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, The Clover Group remains dedicated to taking action toward gender equality. Through inclusive hiring practices, leadership opportunities, and a strong focus on work-life balance, the company is actively shaping a future where women have equal access to success in the industry.

This International Women’s Day, The Clover Group reaffirms its commitment to not just talking about change, but making it happen.

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