Category: Hospitality

Over 60 tourism businesses from Sligo attended the special Destination Sligo Networking Event in the Sligo Park Hotel last week.

The event was organised by Fáilte Ireland to provide collaborative networking opportunities for tourism and hospitality businesses in the Sligo area, and to meet and share insights and information.

The event also created a platform for the industry to network, with the intent of fostering greater collaboration and cross-selling between accommodation providers and visitor experiences (including activity providers and attractions), attract more visitors, and encourage them to stay longer and spend more in the northern half of the Wild Atlantic Way.

“By bringing a mix of tourism businesses together for this important workshop, we can help to strengthen connections and encourage greater collaboration within the destination,” said Luke Murray, Fáilte Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way manager.

“This will help to raise the profile of the fantastic variety of accommodation, attractions, activities and experiences in Sligo and drive competitiveness in the destination.”

The Talbot Collection has announced the acquisition of the Absolute Hotel, in Limerick City, marking the group’s latest expansion.

The purchase – the collection’s first in Limerick – brings its portfolio to seven hotels across Wexford, Dublin, Cork, Tipperary, Carlow and Limerick, in addition to the Talbot Suites self-catering apartments, the Newbay House exclusive wedding venue, and the Dome entertainment centre, in Carlow.

“We’re proud to expand the Talbot Collection to Limerick – and indeed the west coast – a city full of energy and opportunity,” said Philip Gavin, managing director of the Talbot Collection. “This investment reflects our confidence in Ireland’s hospitality industry and our ongoing commitment to our people and guests.”

A Period Of Sustained Investment

The acquisition continues a period of sustained investment across the Talbot Collection’s portfolio, with multimillion-euro refurbishments completed at the Talbot Hotel Cork and the Talbot Hotel Midleton in 2024, following their rebrand under the unified Talbot identity.

The group has also invested significantly in upgrading guest facilities and staff amenities across all properties in recent years, as part of a long-term strategy focused on quality, innovation and people.

 

Founded in 1994, the Talbot Collection has grown from a single hotel into a diversified hospitality group, encompassing premium hotels, wedding venues, and entertainment destinations.

“Being part of the Talbot Collection offers great opportunities for our team,” said Donnacha Hurley, general manager of the Absolute Hotel. “The Talbot Collection’s people-first culture aligns perfectly with what we’ve built here in Limerick, and we’re excited for the next chapter together.”

The managing director of the Pettitt Group – owner of the Talbot Collection – Cormac Pettitt, added, “The acquisition of the Absolute Hotel is a significant milestone for the Talbot Collection. This is a superb hotel with a great reputation.”

Over 200 hoteliers from across Ireland gathered this week at the Dublin Royal Convention Centre for a hotel sustainability conference, titled ‘Climate Action: Driving Competitiveness,’ co-delivered by the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) and Fáilte Ireland.

Chaired by Matt Cooper, topics included global trends, changing consumer preferences, operational efficiency, cost reduction, decarbonisation and financing – all brought to life through tangible case studies from Irish hoteliers.

The conference is representative of the IHF’s long-term commitment to sustainability, in alignment with the tailored supports delivered through Fáilte Ireland’s Climate Action Programme.

“The enthusiasm in the room today is demonstrative of the growing appetite for sustainable evolution within the hotel sector,” said Michael Magner, IHF president.

“Eighty-seven per cent [87%] of our members have indicated plans to invest in sustainability initiatives over the next year.”

 

Expert speakers and industry leaders illustrated how sustainability can drive innovation, boost efficiency and enhance competitiveness in the hotel sector.

The speaker line-up included Craig Bennett (the Wildlife Trusts), Richard Burrett (Earth Capital), Declan Meally (SEAI), Colin Moran (SBCI), Colette Shirley (Bank of Ireland), Andres Fellenberg (EarthCheck), Chris Austin (Cliste Hospitality), Dara Cruise (Neville Park Hotels), Tom Randles (Randles Hotels) and Carmel Lonergan (Trigon Hotels).

“This conference is about equipping the sector with the insights and tools needed to make sustainability a core part of their business strategy,” said Jenny De Saulles, director of sector development at Fáilte Ireland.

The Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) has welcomed the announcement by the government of a reduction in VAT for food services, as part of Budget 2026.

“The lower 9% VAT rate is a crucial intervention for struggling foodservice businesses the length and breadth of the country at a time of enormous challenges and unsustainable increases in operating costs,” said Michael Magner, IHF president.

“This measure goes a long way toward putting Irish tourism on a more stable footing, aligning Ireland’s VAT rate for hospitality food services with the majority of our European competitors.”

Founded in 1937, the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) is the national organisation of the hotel and guesthouse sector in Ireland. It represents over 900 hotels and guesthouses nationwide, employing over 65,000 people.

Magner also welcomed the additional allocations in Budget 2026 for Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland.

 

“This increased funding for both state agencies reflects the vital role they play in developing and expanding our tourism product and market reach in what is an exceptionally competitive global environment,” said Magner.

“It will ensure that we are well placed to build on the great work done to date promoting Ireland as an attractive tourist destination.”

Tania brings a wealth of experience in the luxury hospitality sector to the four- star resort, having held senior roles across some of Ireland’s most renowned properties.

The Johnstown Estate, a distinguished four- star resort, has announceed the appointment of Tania Dunne as its new
Director of Sales.

Tania brings with her a wealth of experience in the luxury hospitality sector, having held senior roles across some of Ireland’s most renowned properties. Most recently, she led the sales team at Glasson Lakehouse, a lakeside resort located just outside Athlone. Prior to that, she worked at Dublin’s largest conference hotel, Clayton Hotel Burlington Road, where she spearheaded international MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events) business development. Her earlier experience also includes time at the prestigious g Hotel & Spa, Galway’s only five-star hotel.

In her new role at The Johnstown Estate, Tania will focus on strategically growing the hotel’s conference and events business, both domestically and internationally. Her goal is to foster long-term partnerships and deliver innovative sales strategies that
reflect the hotel’s ambitious plans for continued growth and excellence in service.

Speaking about the appointment, General Manager, Guy Thompson, said:

“We are thrilled to welcome Tania to the leadership team. Her in-depth knowledge of the MICE market and her proven track record in driving growth will be a major asset as we enter an exciting phase of development at The Johnstown Estate.”

Located just 35 minutes from Dublin City, The Johnstown Estate is a leading destination for corporate retreats, national and international conferences, and premium leisure stays. Home to an award-winning spa and renowned dining experiences, the estate offers the perfect balance of business and relaxation.

Following an €8 million investment in the newly developed Forde Suites, The Johnstown Estate now features some of Ireland’s most advanced event and accommodation facilities, further strengthening its position as a premier venue for conferences and events.

Tania Dunne added:

“I’m honoured to join The Johnstown Estate at such a pivotal time. I look forward to working closely with the team to elevate our presence in both domestic and international markets, build lasting partnerships, and contribute to the exciting future expansion of the Estate.”

Tourism Ireland hosted a networking event in Paris, bringing together 30 of France’s leading luxury travel buyers with 14 tourism companies from Ireland.

Organised to highlight our luxury tourism offering to the French travel buyers in attendance, the event involved a workshop of around 200 one-to-one meetings, a presentation, as well as networking sessions – providing an excellent opportunity for the tourism companies from Ireland to promote their luxury products and services and to negotiate and secure business for 2026 and beyond.

Guests were treated to some unique Irish experiences, including a whiskey tasting from Teeling Whiskey Distillery, smoked salmon from the Burren Smokehouse and a jewellery-making workshop with NI Silver – combining luxury with our superb culinary offering and rich heritage and craftsmanship.

David Boyce, Tourism Ireland’s Head of Business Events and Luxury, said:

“We were delighted to bring together our fantastic tourism partners from Ireland to meet with these influential French luxury travel buyers. Our event presented a valuable platform to showcase Ireland’s luxury tourism offering – including our boutique hotels and luxury resorts and spas, as well as our rich culture and heritage – to strengthen relationships and drive business opportunities for 2026 and beyond.”

Companies from Ireland taking part in Tourism Ireland’s luxury workshop in Paris:

• The Merrion
• Abbey Group
• AC Tours
• Álainn Tours
• Burren Smokehouse
• Cork Airport / Visit Cork
• Dunluce Lodge
• Hayfield Manor
• MHL Hotel Collection
• Midleton Distillery Experience
• Muckross Park Hotel & Spa
• O’Donoghue Ring Collection
• Teeling Whiskey Distillery
• The Doyle Collection

Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary warned on Thursday that the Russian war in Ukraine would cause travel disruption for European airlines for years to come, a day after Poland shot down suspected Russian drones in its airspace.

Speaking at the company’s annual general meeting, O’Leary also said that Ryanair, Europe’s biggest airline, may exit Israel even after violence related to the war in Gaza recedes, blaming a row over airport fees.

Several Polish airports were temporarily closed on Wednesday as the country shot down Russian drones, before flights resumed hours later. There were knock-on effects on air-traffic control, causing flight delays across Europe.

“This is going to be an ongoing issue for all airlines and all European citizens for the next number of years,” group CEO O’Leary said.

“The risk is one of continuous disruption, rather than of safety.”

 

On Wednesday, just 60% of Ryanair’s flights were on time, compared to a normal rate of around 90%, he said.

O’Leary said safety was Ryanair’s priority, adding that he was confident European authorities would act swiftly to shut airspace and protect aircraft. The problem for airlines and passengers would be regular closures creating headaches as flights are delayed and schedules disrupted.

“There’s a huge increase in NATO air activity over southern and eastern Poland, that constrains the availability of airspace for commercial travel,” he said.

The impact of the incident, which marked the first time a member of NATO is known to have fired shots during the war, was discussed at a meeting of the company’s board of directors on Wednesday, O’Leary added.

Shares in Ryanair were up 2.4% by 1248 GMT, recovering ground from Wednesday when the Polish incident sent most European travel stocks lower.

 

Possible Israel Exit

In Israel, another country where Ryanair flights have been cancelled due to safety concerns, O’Leary said his airline may walk away from the country for good as it was being “messed around” by airport authorities there.

Earlier this northern hemisphere summer, the airline said it would not return to Israel until October 25 at the earliest, in line with many international carriers who have halted flights due to conflict in the region.

“I think there’s a real possibility that we won’t bother going back to Israel,” he said.

“Unless the Israelis kind of get their act together and stop messing us around, frankly, we have far more growth elsewhere in Europe,” he added.

Ryanair objects to the fact that Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport charges it the higher rate for use of the main terminal when the cheaper low-cost terminal is closed for security reasons, O’Leary said.

He said Ryanair would start flying back to Jordan this month or next.

The 47th Guinness Cork Jazz Festival takes place this October Bank Holiday weekend

One of Europe’s most celebrated music events, the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival, has launched its 2025 programme, which takes place this October Bank Holiday weekend (23–27 October).

Now in its 47th year, the festival will feature a world-class line-up that spans jazz, funk, soul, hip-hop, and electronic innovation, with global icons and cutting-edge new talent. Headliners already announced include Cymande, JP Cooper, Orchestra Baobab, techno pioneer Jeff Mills, legendary hip-hop collective The Pharcyde, and the soulful voice of Sienna Spiro.

More acts were revealed at the official launch this evening:

Tickets for these newly announced shows go on sale this Friday, 5 September at 10am on guinnesscorkjazz.com.   Organisers say they have more surprises in the bag to announce in the coming weeks.

• Lee Fields & The Expressions  – the legendary American soul singer, whose career began back in 1969, has drawn comparisons to James Brown and Otis Redding, but with a nuanced originality. Lee returns to Irish shores for the first time in 5 years.
• Nubya Garcia – a British jazz musician, saxophonist, composer and bandleader – one of the leading names in the new wave of UK jazz.
• Jape – Rituals – an exclusive tribute to Richie Egan’s early, groundbreaking work.
• Summer Pearl – soulful rising star destined to captivate audiences.
• Norma Winstone & Glauco Venier: Distances and Beyond
• Vallon-Michel-Rossy – Pianist Colin Vallon joins focus with two of Europe’s most prominent and original musicians – Matthieu Michel on trumpet and Jorge Ross on drums.
• Elina Duni & Rob Luft Quartet: A Time To Remember – connecting music from different parts of the world. Supported by Swiss Flugehorn player Matthieu Michel and one of the great contemporary British jazz drummers, Corrie Dick.
• Yankari Afrobeat Collective –  carrying the fire of Afrobeat forward, pushing the genre beyond its roots while staying true to its soul.
• Mås Exödus – a modern contemporary jazz band that emerged in 2021, conceived by festival director Mark Murphy (ChoiceCuts) and guitarist Max Zaska.
• Stella Performs Ella – Stella Bass Tribute to Ella Fitzgerald
• And more local additions including Smithereens, Yankari, Estratos, and Tu-Ki.

“Guinness Cork Jazz is Ireland’s largest jazz festival and a cultural institution.  Every year, Cork becomes the beating heart of jazz, but the festival has grown into so much more – a celebration of musical innovation and cultural energy,” said Mark Murphy, Festival Director.   

Over five days, the festival will feature more than 500 musicians across 100 events in nearly 80 venues, from headline venues for ticketed shows to a free Guinness Music Trail.   The festival also spills into the streets with surprise pop-up gigs, and brass bands with The Big Fringe.  The reach of the festival also extends beyond the city to surrounding areas such as Douglas and Kinsale, making it a key cultural draw for both domestic and international visitors.

The Guinness Cork Jazz Festival has attracted more than 100,000 attendees in recent years, establishing itself as Ireland’s premier jazz event and the biggest city-based music festival.

Already announced highlights include:

• Cymande – the influential British funk and soul collective, celebrating their first album in a decade.
• JP Cooper – with his soulful vocals and crossover hits.
• Orchestra Baobab – Senegalese legends blending Afro-Cuban rhythms and West African sounds.
• The Pharcyde – revisiting Labcabincalifornia on its 30th anniversary.
• Jeff Mills – presenting Tomorrow Comes the Harvest, a fusion of techno and jazz improvisation.
• Sienna Spiro -19-year old singer-songwriter whose soulful voice and raw lyricism has gained her widespread acclaim.
• Returning favourites Hypnotic Brass Ensemble and Le Boom.
• Saul Williams & Carlos Niño, Ross From Friends, Adrian Younge Orchestra, Annie & The Caldwells, The Congos, Khakikid, Vieux Farka Touré, James Holden & Wacław Zimpel, Tolü Makay, and a wide range of emerging Irish talent including God Knows, Zaska, Winnie Ama, and Toshín.

With its mix of jazz greats, global innovators, and breakthrough Irish talent, it’s set to be another incredible weekend of music with a great festival vibe across the city.

The Guinness Cork Jazz Festival takes place from 23-27 October. Tickets and full programme details are available at guinnesscorkjazz.com

The ‘It’s All About Food’ initiative will celebrate Ireland’s world-class produce and the passionate producers behind it

Tourism Ireland has launched a new food campaign in Germany, in partnership with the well-known German barbecue brand MONOLITH Grill and German tour operator Wolters Rundreisen. Called ‘It’s All About Food’, the initiative will celebrate Ireland’s world-class produce and the passionate producers behind it, highlighting Ireland as a must-visit destination for German food lovers and outdoor adventurers alike. Outdoor sporting equipment brand ORTLIEB Sportartikel and knife brand Dick Knives are also supporting the promotion.

Chef Olaf Deharde Explores the Wild Atlantic Way

The campaign is fronted by German chef, journalist and videographer Olaf Deharde, who travelled along the Wild Atlantic Way this summer, uncovering the people and stories behind our superb produce – and capturing all the special moments along the way in a series of videos. His journey took him from harvesting seaweed in West Cork with Atlantic Sea Kayaking, to learning about oysters with Kelly Oysters in Galway and sampling spirits at Dingle Distillery. He also visited Dingle Sheepdogs, as well as Tig Bhric and West Kerry Brewery.

In the videos, viewers will see Olaf create various dishes, all using locally sourced ingredients, on his MONOLITH grill in some of the most scenic locations along the Wild Atlantic Way. The videos, as well as recipes and food stories, are being shared via Tourism Ireland’s social platforms in Germany, as well as via the social channels of the four partner organisations, inspiring German audiences to taste – and travel – their way around Ireland. ]

New Culinary Road Trip: ‘Genussvolles Irland’

Complementing this collaboration, Wolters Rundreisen has launched a new tour called  ‘Autoreise Genussvolles Irland’ (meaning ‘Road Trip Enjoyable Ireland’). The itinerary takes visitors from Cork through the Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula and on to the Cliffs of Moher, combining Ireland’s spectacular landscapes with fantastic food experiences – from street food at Cork’s Marina Market to a picnic in the Burren and a stop at Murphy’s Ice Cream.

Nadine Lehmann, Tourism Ireland’s Manager Germany, said:

“We are delighted to launch our new food campaign, ‘It’s All About Food’. This initiative is a fantastic way to showcase Ireland’s exceptional local produce, talented producers and the unforgettable culinary experiences awaiting our German visitors. By combining the spectacular scenery of the Wild Atlantic Way with our vibrant food culture, our aim is to inspire even more German visitors to come and discover that Ireland truly is ‘All About Food’ – and so much more.”