Travelodge claims robust performance in tough climate
Budget hotel chain Travelodge has reported a 13% rise in sales in 2010 as it continues with its expansion.
The group is building 36 hotels this year and has already opened four – in Cardiff city centre, Paignton Seafront, Horsham town centre and Southgate.
CEO Guy Parsons said: “Despite the tough climate in 2010, we have delivered a robust performance whilst continuing our strategic UK growth programme and demonstrating Travelodge’s continued strong recovery.
“The year has started in line with management’s expectations though clearly there has been an impact on the consumer from the recent VAT increase and the fuel and energy price increases.
“In terms of split, London’s performance is tracking against strong comparatives and the provinces continue to recover through a continuing seasonal weak demand period.â€
In 2010, total sales were up 13%, with total sales up 16% in London and 12% in the provinces.
Like for like growth was up 6%, led by 11% growth in London and 2% provincial.
Occupancy was up 3 percentage points, but the group did not disclose the figure. It said costs per room remained flat, but again did not disclose the amount.
The group acquired 52 hotels last year through a deal with Mitchells and Butlers.
By Bev Fearis
Bev
Editor in chief Bev Fearis has been a travel journalist for 25 years. She started her career at Travel Weekly, where she became deputy news editor, before joining Business Traveller as deputy editor and launching the magazine’s website. She has also written travel features, news and expert comment for the Guardian, Observer, Times, Telegraph, Boundless and other consumer titles and was named one of the top 50 UK travel journalists by the Press Gazette.
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