A brand new 115-bedroom Ramada Encore Hotel has opened its doors in Leicester this week, becoming the 36th hotel in Akkeron Hotels Group’s growing portfolio of venues.
The landmark seven-storey building on Charles Street, formerly the Leicester headquarters of insurance company Norwich Union, has undergone a complete overhaul creating 35 new full and part-time jobs in the city.
A total of £8m has been invested by the building owner and local businessman Indi Johal and the three star hotel will be operated by Akkeron Hotels Group under the Ramada Encore brand.
"After months of hard work we are very excited to have this brand new hotel join our growing portfolio across the UK. The opening of the Ramada Encore Leicester takes our number of venues to 36 and further boosts our national coverage," commented Akkeron Hotels Group managing director Matthew Welbourn.
Akkeron made its first acquisition of eight hotels in December 2009, and in December 2010 it acquired the 18-strong Forestdale Hotels. This was shortly followed by a deal to acquire Butterfly Hotels in February 2011, adding a further 10 venues.
"We already work with a number of brands, including Best Western, Holiday Inn Express and Ramada as well as managing boutique venues, and we actively seeking additional opportunities to work with reputable partners, and grow our portfolio," added Mr Welbourn.
All of the 95 double and 20 twin bedrooms at the new Leicester hotel, seven of which have full disabled access, are fitted with flat-screen TVs, free wi-fi and hard-line internet access, contemporary furnishings and en-suite wet rooms.
"There was a gap in the market for our offering in Leicester and we are exceptionally happy with the design and quality of the hotel that is different to anything in the city already." Commented Akkeron Hotels Group sales and marketing director Nick Greaves.
In addition to the 115 bedrooms, two meeting rooms with flexible space are also available for corporate and business customers, with capacity for up to 60 delegates in a theatre-style meeting, or 18 in a boardroom meeting.
"Whether it’s locals arranging a business meeting, visitors staying here on a business trip, or leisure visitors to the area’s tourist attractions and sporting venues, we wanted to provide contemporary accommodation and great value for money. The new design provides outstanding flexibility and quality, catering for all types of guest," he added.
The hotel incorporates an all-day restaurant and bar, open to residents and non-residents, called The Hub and includes a ground-floor Costa Coffee with access from Halford Street as well as from the hotel lobby.
Nightly rates at the hotel start from £59 during the weekends and £69 Monday to Thursday. Bookings can be made with Akkeron at www.akkeronhotels.com or call reservations on 0844 855 9141.
