The North East Hotels Association (NEHA) has hosted its first industry awards since the pandemic, celebrating excellence in the hospitality sector against all odds.
NEHA, which was established more than 30 years ago, offers support, guidance and camaraderie with hoteliers as well as businesses associated and servicing the industry.
Believed to be one of the biggest organisations of its kind in England, NEHA has 45 of the best-known hotels in the region and is the voice of the hospitality sector.
Its aim is to speak out, influence and challenge the decisions made on behalf of the industry and make its voice heard. NEHA strives to make the lives of hoteliers an easier one and address some of the obstacles that often arise.
The Excellence Awards recognised the most deserving at a black-tie ball that took place on Sunday, October 2, at The Grand Hotel, Gosforth Park, where more than 370 guests were in attendance and were treated to a three-course meal and a live band.
Anna Wadcock, general manager of the Maldron Hotel, and Sarah Harrison, general manager of the Marriott MetroCentre at NEHA, said: “It’s so good to be back after the most stressful two years that our industry has ever seen.
“Our staff have coped remarkably well and fought against adversity in a way that only people in the service industry could understand.
“We’re grateful to all our members and sponsors who have supported us over the years and this year’s Excellence Awards Ball was a great evening for everyone.”
The contribution that hospitality industry has on the economy is enormous in the region, with more than 4,500 bedrooms and a spend of £70 million on goods and services. The hotel revenue alone exceeds £200 million, with an economic footprint estimated at £616 million.
Anna added: “In an industry that employs in excess of 3,400 staff and influence in the region of 11,400 jobs, we hope that more hoteliers will consider joining NEHA to get their voices heard.”
