Hospitality Ireland

The spirits industry is planning to push for an exemption to any universal tariffs on US imports imposed by the incoming Trump administration, a trade body representing top spirits makers told Reuters. "We'd ask for an exemption based on the distinct origin of these products," said Chris Swonger, President and CEO of DISCUS, adding that while the trade body recognises the intent of Trump's proposals, when it comes to spirits the country or region of production cannot be changed and levies would harm industries such as hospitality. https://lnkd.in/eQrbJcPK #Trump #tariffs #biznews #drinks

Bushmills Irish Whiskey has released a 26 Year Old Crystal Malt as part of its Prestige Collection. "I am so honoured to manage and supervise the ageing of all our single malts, but releasing this special expression—one which I’ve cared for throughout my entire career here—is truly a dream come true," said Alex Thomas, Bushmills master blender. https://lnkd.in/eJrpCNsu #whiskey #drinks #Bushmills #IrishWhiskey

Stephen Holland has been appointed executive chef at the brand new five-star hotel, Dunluce Lodge. “I have cooked for the late Queen Elizabeth II and in amazing venues in New York and New Zealand, but I am very proud of my Irish roots and know our fantastic local produce is on par with the world’s best," said Stephen Meldrum, general manager, Dunluce Lodge. https://lnkd.in/eiJWBA9p #appointmenst #leadership #foodbiz

Netherlands-based food delivery company Just Eat Takeaway.com on Wednesday announced its plans to de-list its stock from the London stock exchange at the end of this year, the latest large company to withdraw from the bourse. https://lnkd.in/eYf_Zs5q #biznews #foodbiz #JustEat

Ireland’s hotel landscape is being 'marred' by cash-in-hand payments with rising costs and wage struggles set to continue into 2025, according to research. "With anywhere between 600 and 700 hospitality venues closing in the last 12 months alone, it’s not a surprise that just about everyone we meet in this sector is concerned about its sustainability," said Shane McLave, managing director at Excel Recruitment. https://lnkd.in/exqwUGDj #recruitment #hospitality #jobs

US-based travel companies, from Marriott International to Booking Holdings are trimming their budgets and workforce ahead of next year as falling leisure travel demand from lower-income travelers hits top-line growth. "We are being more efficient and we are very careful with hiring," Booking chief financial officer Ewout Steenbergen told investors on an earnings call. https://lnkd.in/eEjap4Wb #US #travel #tourism

Now with four concept restaurants to his name, each unique in its influence, Stuart Ralston has established himself as one of Scotland’s most ambitious and intriguing culinary talents. Here he talks to Emily Hourican. "Being able to absorb so much of my twenties in New York City shaped me to view food the way I do, and the skill sets I learnt, I believe, I could have only got there at that time," said Ralston. https://lnkd.in/eEU3cuNm #Michelin #restaurant #dining #inspire

Spain's consumer rights ministry has fined budget airlines including Ryanair and Vueling a combined €179 million for practices such as charging for larger cabin bags, it said on Friday. "These illegal and baseless fines, which have been invented by Spain's Consumer Affairs Ministry for political reasons, are clearly in breach of EU law," said its CEO, Michael O'Leary. https://lnkd.in/e6md5sMS #travel #tourism #Ryanair #Easyjet

Starbucks reiterated on Thursday it is exploring strategic partnerships for its Chinese operations, after a media report saying the company is considering selling a stake in the business to a local partner. "All indications show me the competitive environment is extreme (in China)... and we need to figure out how we grow in the market ... in the meantime, we continue to explore strategic partnerships that could help us grow in the long term," said new CEO Brian Niccol on an earnings call on October 31. https://lnkd.in/eZnwmTRx #Starbucks #coffee #biznews

Forty two percent of travellers plan to go on more holidays in 2025 compared to 2024, while 81% will do more or the same amount. “The strong desire for international, regional and domestic travel, seen from this comprehensive consumer research, is great news for the industry and we are excited for the year ahead," said Phil Andreopoulos, chief sales and marketing officer, Marriott International (EMEA). https://lnkd.in/ei7RDsD9 #Marriott #tourism #travel #EMEA