Focus Hotel group to manage Derry Holiday Inn Express

The same English hotel operator that will run the new five-star Bedford Hotel in Belfast has taken over the running of the Holiday Inn Express in Derry.

Focus Hotel has already signed the management contract for the 119-bed hotel on Strand Road, marking the company’s first entry into the hotel market on the island of Ireland.

The three-star Holiday Inn Express is owned by brothers Larry and Brendan Duddy Junior while Focus Hotels’ portfolio include a dozen locations in England and Scotland.

Derry’s Martin Property Group is developing the hotel after buying the Scottish Mutual Building out of administration for £5.5 million in December 2022.

The listed-building was previously the site of a failed bid by Liverpool developer Lawrence Kenwright to redevelop it into a George Best themed hotel.

Focus Hotels said the management deals signed in Derry and Belfast are part of its plans to expand its portfolio in Northern Ireland.

The company’s chief executive, Devin Grosse, said: “This is a fantastic hotel that provides an ideal base for exploring the history and vibrance of the city.

“It is a joy to welcome the Holiday Inn Express Derry to the Focus portfolio and we are excited to play a part in the property’s growth and development.”

A spokesperson for the hotel’s ownership group said: “We are delighted to be working with Focus and can already see the professional approach and dedication of their whole team.

“Under Focus’ leadership, we anticipate great strides of progress within the hotel and significant overall improvement in our guests’ experience.”