Dave

Heathrow Airport announces new CEO

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Heathrow Airport’s Board has officially confirmed the appointment of Thomas Woldbye as the successor to John Holland-Kaye, who will step down later this year after nearly a decade at the helm.

Following an extensive recruitment process, Woldbye emerged as the outstanding candidate among a pool of exceptional contenders, both internally and from around the world.

Thomas Woldbye: takes over from John Holland-Kaye as CEO of Heathrow

Currently serving as the CEO of Copenhagen Airport, Woldbye brings with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record in leading a major airport, championing passenger service, sustainability and growth.

His appointment comes at a crucial time as Heathrow recently underwent an £11 billion private investment program by its shareholders, transforming it into the modern, top-rated airport it is today.

During his tenure at Copenhagen Airport, Woldbye prioritised customers and colleagues, leading to the airport’s transformation into a powerhouse transport hub of northern Europe, earning it accolades for its passenger service. His adeptness in navigating complex stakeholder relationships played a pivotal role in his success.

Woldbye forged strong links with the Danish Government, who are part owners of Copenhagen Airport, and fostered partnerships with airlines to drive investment and development, including significant expansions in terminal capacity.

Before his role at Copenhagen Airport, Woldbye spent 27 years at Møller-Mærsk, where he led the global shipping and ferry divisions, gaining substantial success in diverse operating environments and honing expertise in process efficiency.

John Holland-Kaye, the current CEO of Heathrow, will remain in his position over the summer to ensure the airport continues to deliver excellent passenger service until Woldbye officially assumes the role later this year.

In response to the appointment, Lord Deighton, Chairman of Heathrow, expressed the Board’s delight in selecting Woldbye as the next CEO. Deighton emphasised that Woldbye’s accomplishments at Copenhagen Airport align closely with Heathrow’s long-term strategy, highlighting his ability to successfully run a major airport and collaborate with stakeholders to achieve positive outcomes.

Acknowledging Holland-Kaye’s contribution, Deighton commended his unwavering dedication to colleagues and praised his transformative leadership that propelled Heathrow to become a premier global hub.

Holland-Kaye played a pivotal role in developing the expansion plan for Heathrow, securing overwhelming Parliamentary approval. He also adeptly navigated the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and led the industry towards a net-zero future.

Expressing his confidence in Woldbye’s appointment, Holland-Kaye stated that an airport is more than just infrastructure; it is the people who work tirelessly to deliver excellent service to passengers. Holland-Kaye praised Woldbye’s leadership on diversity, sustainability, and his commitment to meeting the needs of passengers, believing that the Heathrow team will be instrumental in Woldbye’s success in delivering the best airport service in the world.

Woldbye himself expressed excitement, pride, and humility upon being chosen to lead one of the world’s most renowned airports on its future journey. He acknowledged the remarkable improvements made by the excellent team at Heathrow in recent years, creating a strong platform for further success. As an important engine for the British economy and intrinsically linked to the success of London and the wider UK, Woldbye looks forward to charting the path for this iconic company. His ambition is to enhance the airport experience for passengers, airlines, the community, and all parts of the UK.

Heathrow Airport, the UK’s international gateway and Europe’s largest airport, welcomes over 200,000 passengers on approximately 1,300 flights daily, serving as Britain’s hub for trade, tourism and investment. With approximately 75,000 colleagues, including airport employees and partners, such as airlines, ground handlers and retailers, Heathrow plays a vital role in connecting the UK to the world.

About Thomas Woldbye

  • Thomas Woldbye assumed the role of CEO at Copenhagen Airport in May 2011. In this position, he is responsible for overseeing the airport’s operations, facilities, and various sectors, including retail, food and beverage, hotels, real estate development, parking, and logistics. Under Woldbye’s leadership, Copenhagen Airport consistently ranks as one of the world’s top airports in terms of customer and retail experiences, efficiency, and profitability. He has successfully collaborated with Danish unions and prioritized customers throughout the airport’s staff.
  • Prior to his role at Copenhagen Airport, Woldbye served for 27 years at A.P. Møller-Mærsk, where he held various management positions across different countries, including Indonesia, Singapore, China, Hong Kong, the Netherlands, and Denmark. During this time, he played a pivotal role in managing A.P. Møller-Mærsk’s global container business, Maersk Line.
  • In 2004, Woldbye assumed the role of Group CEO at Norfolkline Group, headquartered in The Hague.
  • Woldbye holds an HD in Financing from Copenhagen Business School and has acquired professional qualifications from the London Business School and the IMD in Switzerland.
Dave

Norwegian and Strawberry partner to enhance loyalty programmes

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Norwegian and Strawberry have recently announced a partnership, establishing a joint company aimed at enhancing the loyalty programmes available to their respective members.

This collaboration brings together the renowned airline, Norwegian, and Strawberry (formerly known as Nordic Choice Hotels), a hotel company with a legacy of challenging traditional market norms and delivering unique guest experiences.

Strawberry growing: Petter A. Stordalen purchased his first hotel 25 years ago. Now, guests are able to enjoy 226 hotels, 122 restaurants and 21 spas

The partnership aims to provide a wider range of services to loyalty programme members and introduces a common loyalty currency and a versatile platform that allows members to earn and redeem loyalty points across various programmes.

With equal ownership stakes held by Norwegian and Strawberry, this joint venture is set to reshape the loyalty landscape, particularly for UK-based business travellers seeking seamless corporate travel experiences.

By replacing the existing point systems used by various loyalty programmes, the partnership revolutionises the way members can utilise their loyalty points.

For instance, points earned through hotel stays can now be used to pay for airfares and vice versa, eliminating the boundaries between travel sectors.

Geir Karlsen, CEO of Norwegian, expressed his excitement about the collaboration, highlighting the opportunity to expand the highly popular loyalty programme, Norwegian Reward, through innovative partnerships. He emphasised the importance of thinking beyond conventional approaches and teaming up with new partners like Strawberry to develop a platform that offers customers a broader selection of services.

A significant development accompanying this collaboration is the recent name change of Nordic Choice Hotels to Strawberry. For over 25 years, Nordic Choice Hotels has been a prominent player in the hotel industry, consistently challenging traditional market norms to provide unique guest experiences. The name change to Strawberry marks a significant shift for the company as it expands its offerings beyond hotels. With a portfolio that now includes 120 restaurants, 20 spas, gyms, meeting places, and arenas throughout the Nordic region, the new name reflects the company’s ambition to represent its diverse range of experiences and services.

Petter Stordalen, founder and owner of Strawberry, explains,

We are no longer just a hotel company. Today, we offer experiences throughout the Nordic region, and therefore, we want a brand and a name that represents the entire portfolio.

While the ambition to deliver exceptional hotel and guest experiences remains unchanged, the rebranding as Strawberry signifies a broader universe of offerings for guests and the 2.4 million members of the loyalty club. This shift aligns with Strawberry’s vision to be the best in terms of hotel and guest experiences while expanding their portfolio to provide a comprehensive range of services to their valued customers.

Initially, the collaboration between Norwegian and Strawberry will focus on their loyalty programmes, Norwegian Reward and Strawberry’s loyalty programme. However, the partnership’s goal is to extend its reach by including additional partners from the Nordics, thereby offering members even more opportunities to earn and redeem loyalty points.

With a combined membership of approximately 7.5 million, the partnership between Norwegian and Strawberry holds great promise for business travellers. As further details about the new company and the loyalty currency are revealed during the launch later this year, anticipation grows within the travel industry.

Business travellers can look forward to an enhanced loyalty experience that provides more frequent and flexible opportunities to earn and utilize loyalty points for their corporate travel requirements.

The partnership between Norwegian and Strawberry not only signifies a new era in loyalty programmes but also reflects the evolving needs of business travellers. By unifying airlines and hotel chains and introducing a common loyalty currency, this collaboration sets the stage for seamless and rewarding corporate travel experiences.

As Norwegian and Strawberry continue to innovate and extend invitations to new partners, their mission of revolutionising loyalty programmes across the region gains momentum.

Dave

Bridging Distances: Ferrovial and Milligan unveil ambitious plan for UK business travel

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In a significant move, the Airports division of infrastructure company Ferrovial has joined forces with London-based real estate developer Milligan to identify and develop sites for urban air mobility operations across the United Kingdom.

This collaboration marks a crucial step in Ferrovial’s plan to construct and operate vertiports, which will play a key role in the emerging field of electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL) operations.

The partnership brings together Ferrovial’s expertise in transportation infrastructure development and Milligan’s strategic approach to site selection and engagement with local communities.

AECOM and Lichfields, acting as planning advisors, will work alongside the partners to assess potential sites and determine their suitability for eVTOL operations.

The announcement of this partnership took place at a special event hosted by UKREiiF in Leeds in May. Brad Miller, Ferrovial Vertiports Managing Director for the UK and EMEA, and John Milligan, Executive Chairman of Milligan, introduced their joint vision for the future of air mobility, emphasizing the importance of engaging communities and core stakeholders.

By advancing connectivity, this collaboration aims to transform the way towns and cities across the UK are linked.

Brad Miller, Ferrovial Vertiports Managing Director for the UK and EMEA, stated,

Freedom of movement is critical to global economic and social advancement. With a 70-year history of developing transportation infrastructure that helps communities flourish and grow, Ferrovial is proud to play a leading role in transforming the future of urban air mobility

Recognising the critical role of vertiports in enabling Urban Air Mobility (UAM) operations, Miller highlighted their potential to provide sustainable and convenient air connections, revolutionizing travel within and between cities.

Stuart Harris, CEO of Milligan, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating,

UKREiiF has been the perfect opportunity to unveil the details of our partnership and plans going forward. With an audience of local authorities, central government, developers, and landowners, we are looking into the locations of the UK’s first Vertiports,

To ensure the success of the venture, certain imperatives guide the site selection process. Prospective locations must meet airspace requirements, offer a minimum area of 4,000m2 with access to utilities, and be free from residential or noise-sensitive areas. The sites can be situated on the ground or on existing structures such as rooftops or carparks, with design and fit-out costs covered by the partnership.

Milligan and Ferrovial are currently engaged in discussions with local authorities, landowners, and asset owners across strategically important locations in the UK, aligning with the demand model of Ferrovial Vertiports. This collaborative effort aims to establish the first Vertiports in the UK and set the stage for the future of urban air mobility.

The partnership between Ferrovial and Milligan, along with the involvement of Vertical Aerospace, a key partner of Ferrovial Vertiport and a leading manufacturer of eVTOLs, marks a significant milestone in advancing the accessibility and sustainability of transportation systems in the UK.

As the realm of urban air mobility unfolds, the collaborative efforts of industry leaders and stakeholders will shape the way we travel, opening up new possibilities for businesses and enhancing the overall travel experience for UK-based business travellers.

Dave

Gatwick unveils £10 million transformation of North Terminal for enhanced passenger experience

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London Gatwick Airport, the capital’s second major international hub, is gearing up for an exciting period of transformation that promises to enhance the experience of business travellers.

The airport has unveiled its plans for the relaunch and redesign of the North Terminal, alongside a proposal to bring the Northern Runway into routine use.

These initiatives, backed by substantial investments, aim to create a more appealing and efficient space for passengers while generating significant employment opportunities for local construction workers.

North Terminal: more than £10 million to be invested to create a more appealing space for passengers to relax, shop and eat

The North Terminal, scheduled for completion in early 2024, will undergo its most significant overhaul since its opening in 1988.

With over £10 million dedicated to improvements, Gatwick is committed to providing a personalised and relaxing environment that aligns with its refreshed branding and vision.

Passengers can look forward to a departure lounge featuring new flooring, contemporary seating and differentiated ‘mood zones’ equipped with accessible power points. The addition of local artwork and a sustainable planting scheme will showcase the airport’s connection to the beautiful West Sussex countryside.

Furthermore, improved sightlines, wayfinding systems, and a unique digital artwork zone will ensure an effortless exploration of the terminal’s offerings.

Simultaneously, Gatwick’s Northern Runway expansion project presents a remarkable opportunity for local construction workers.

If approved, approximately 630 new jobs will be created across areas including West Sussex, East Sussex, Surrey, Kent, Brighton and Hove, and the London Borough of Croydon. The airport plans to source the majority of the workforce from neighboring local authority areas such as Reigate and Banstead, Crawley and Mid Sussex.

This job creation initiative will invigorate the regional economy and provide employment opportunities for professionals, engineers, operators, ground workers, and specialists in various fields. From taxiway alterations to terminal building work, car parks and highway projects, the project will offer diverse roles that contribute to the airport’s long-term vision.

Cedric Laurier, Chief Technical Officer of London Gatwick, expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunities the Northern Runway project presents, highlighting the excitement it brings to the region. He said,

The opportunities presented for local employment through Gatwick’s Northern Runway project are incredibly exciting for the region. 

To offer up to 1400 new jobs in construction alone – with a significant proportion of these estimated to be using the local workforce – is great news. These new jobs will not only benefit workers now, but also our future workforce who are still in school or college.”

Gatwick’s comprehensive vision encompasses both the enhancement of passenger experience through the North Terminal redesign and the positive economic impact resulting from the Northern Runway expansion.

By improving resilience, reducing delays, and supporting trade, tourism and job creation, the airport aims to solidify its position as a leading international hub, serving the needs of UK-based business travellers and beyond.

With exciting additions like new retailers and restaurants, including The Breakfast Club, BrewDog, and curi.o.city, London Gatwick is set to offer a vibrant and dynamic travel experience.

As the ambitious projects take shape, Gatwick invites business travellers to look forward to a future where the airport serves as a gateway to exceptional travel experiences, reflecting the airport’s commitment to providing a unique sense of place while celebrating the region’s rich offerings.

Dave

Whoosh and GWR collaborate to bring real-time train service information to UK business travellers

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Great Western Railway (GWR) has embarked on an innovative venture by partnering with rail tech developer Whoosh to trial new software that provides real-time train service information to passengers.

This groundbreaking digital platform aims to enhance passenger communication, improve customer satisfaction, and offer cost-saving opportunities for train operating companies.

Digital platform: information and onward journey planning

The trial, which started in May, is scheduled to run for four months on three trains and at Patchway and Newton Abbot stations.

Through the partnership with Whoosh, GWR is offering customers the convenience of accessing real-time journey information. By scanning bespoke station and at-seat QR codes, passengers can effortlessly unlock relevant travel details. This includes real-time updates on the train they are on, as well as rail and travel information for every station in the country.

The digital platform serves as a one-stop hub for station information, onward journey planning, and even provides Welsh language options.

Whoosh’s innovative software also introduces a recently patented feature called ‘Tell Us,’ which enables passengers and onboard staff to report faults in a contextualised manner. This interactive functionality empowers travellers to provide valuable feedback, contributing to improved services and customer satisfaction.

King’s Award: Whoosh won the King’s Award for Innovation in the Enterprise Category 2023

Whoosh has already established several successful journey information services for various UK transport operators. The company previously partnered with Network Rail to deliver personalised information across the country’s largest stations.

With the GWR trial, Whoosh is expanding its services to a multilingual version of the real-time journey platform, further showcasing the cost-saving benefits for train operating companies while enhancing passenger communication and satisfaction.

Edmund Caldecott, the founder and CEO of Whoosh, expresses enthusiasm for the trial, emphasising the potential cost-saving opportunities for TOCs while improving customer communication and satisfaction.

We’re incredibly excited for our trial with Great Western Railway, not least because it is our first multilingual version of the real-time journey platform. It allows us to demonstrate the cost-saving opportunities for train operating companies while improving passenger communication – and therefore customer satisfaction – too.

Stations without customer information screens are typically unmanaged too, so now customers can simply scan the QR code and get all the information they need, and more besides, at a fraction of the cost to the operator.

GWR Development Manager Mike Preece shares the sentiment, stating that the collaboration with Whoosh during the trial period will enhance communication with passengers across the network. He said,

We are pleased to collaborate with Whoosh during this trial period and look forward to seeing how travel technology can enhance communication with passengers across our network, helping to keep them informed and engaged throughout their journey. We are also excited to see how this trial could lead to innovative revenue opportunities and, most importantly, improved services for our passengers.

Great Western Railway’s partnership with Whoosh to trial their real-time journey information software marks an exciting development in enhancing the travel experience for UK-based business travellers. By providing passengers with immediate access to real-time journey updates and comprehensive travel information, GWR aims to improve passenger communication, customer satisfaction and overall service quality.

As the trial progresses, the innovative digital platform holds the potential to revolutionise the way information is shared and accessed within the rail industry, ultimately benefiting both passengers and train operating companies alike.

Dave

Austrian Airlines introduces ‘Tastefully Austrian’: a new culinary concept

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Austrian Airlines is set to revolutionise the inflight dining experience with its new long-haul catering concept, “Tastefully Austrian.”

Commencing in mid-June, passengers can expect an expanded culinary offering, allowing them to customise their meals according to their preferences.

This innovative approach aims to highlight Austrian hospitality and cuisine, providing UK-based business travellers with an exceptional individual experience.

Michael Trestl, Chief Commercial Officer of Austrian Airlines, expressed his enthusiasm, stating,

We aim to provide our guests with a flying piece of Austria – a culinary experience the Austrian way. Our goal is to highlight Austrian hospitality and cuisine and to offer our guests an individual experience.

We take great pride in our return to form with the new long-haul concept and in bringing Austrian culinary delights to our esteemed passengers.

Passengers will now have more flexibility in customising their onboard meals, ensuring an enjoyable and personalised dining experience.

Additionally, the reintroduction of the Flying Chef in April further enhances the inflight service.

Business Class passengers can anticipate a range of exciting new additions. The welcome drink will be accompanied by a delectable bar snack, and due to its popularity, an expanded selection featuring a soup will be available.

Guests will have the choice of two international main courses, complemented by an authentic Austrian signature dish.

A highlight of the new concept is the introduction of the Viennese coffee house service onboard, where passengers can indulge in a variety of freshly-brewed coffees, paired with a delightful dessert. And a separate cheese trolley, offering a selection of digestives, will be presented in the cabin.

Not only will Business Class be enhanced, but also Premium Economy and Economy Class will see culinary innovations on long-haul flights.

Passengers in these classes can expect new recipes and creations presented in three- or four-course menus, featuring two main course options. Additionally, a light dish or small breakfast will be served on all long-haul flights, ensuring a satisfying inflight experience for all travellers.

The menu concept aligns with Austrian Airlines’ corporate values, reflecting their new brand orientation launched in April 2023: “Austria’s flair in the air.” The airline says this motto embodies the essence of Austrian hospitality and creates a sense of home for passengers.

UK-based business travellers can now look forward to an extraordinary culinary journey above the clouds, experiencing the warm embrace of Austrian hospitality and indulging in the rich flavours of Austria, all while reaching their destinations in comfort and style with Austrian Airlines.

Dave

British Airways makes Cincinnati the airline’s 27th US destination

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British Airways has made its highly-anticipated debut at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG).

This marks the airline’s 27th American destination and further solidifies British Airways’ position as the largest overseas carrier in the United States.

Passengers departing on the inaugural flight from Cincinnati were treated to British-themed refreshments at the departure gate and entertained by musicians and performers, creating an exciting atmosphere for the start of their journey.

Situated along the picturesque Ohio River, the central Cincinnati metropolitan area spans across southwestern Ohio, northern Kentucky, and extends into parts of southeastern Indiana. By establishing this new route, British Airways introduces its renowned service to a previously untapped region of the United States, catering to the needs of over 11 million people within a 120-mile radius of Cincinnati’s airport.

Neil Chernoff, British Airways Director of Networks and Alliances, expressed confidence in the new route, stating,

When we look at the Cincinnati region we see a vibrant part of the U.S. with a great mix of business and leisure travellers who have long asked for more international service and global connectivity, which is what made it so attractive to us and why we’re confident this new route will be a success.

Our incredibly positive and welcoming conversations with the airport team, the business development community and tourism partners – combined with all the region has to offer visitors from outside the U.S. – were a clear sign that Cincinnati was the right place to expand our flying in America.

With the addition of this route, customers based in Cincinnati now have convenient non-stop access to the capital city of the United Kingdom and its iconic landmarks and attractions.

Cincinnati’s corporate community stands to benefit from the increased connectivity to one of the world’s leading business centers.

Furthermore, British Airways offers seamless connections from its hub at London Heathrow’s Terminal 5 to nearly 200 destinations in 65 countries worldwide, including routes with partner airlines. The arrival of British Airways establishes Cincinnati as a gateway to the globe, unparalleled by any other airline in the region.

Candace McGraw, Chief Executive Officer of CVG Airport, expressed her excitement, saying,

We are thrilled this day has come when CVG has non-stop service to and from London Heathrow.

This flight offers tremendous growth opportunities for business travel, economic development, and tourism between the UK and our region.

We are grateful to our partners in Ohio and Kentucky who have supported this flight that will benefit travellers for years to come.

I offer a personal thanks to our new friends at British Airways for this opportunity.

Travelers arriving in Cincinnati, a city that welcomed over six million visitors in 2021, will find a wealth of activities to enjoy. The city boasts various sports teams, performing arts venues, museums, and parks. Unique neighborhoods like Over-the-Rhine and Covington offer an eclectic mix of restaurants, breweries, cocktail bars, and art galleries.

Additionally, a trip along Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail, stretching south into the central region of the state, provides visitors with a uniquely American experience steeped in history and fine spirits.

The service between Cincinnati and London operates five times a week during the current summer flying season and four times a week during the winter flying season. British Airways will deploy a range of aircraft from its fleet, including the Boeing 777 and Boeing 787, to operate these new non-stop flights.

Passengers traveling on British Airways to and from Cincinnati can look forward to quintessentially British onboard experiences, with three distinct cabin classes available: Club World (business), World Traveller Plus (premium economy), and World Traveller (economy).

Dave

British Airways Introduces Exclusive Whispering Angel Rosé Bar for Ultimate In-flight Indulgence

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British Airways is raising the bar for its customers with the introduction of an exclusive Whispering Angel rosé bar.

This innovative concept will make British Airways the first airline to boast a bespoke bar dedicated solely to the world-famous rosé wine.

Positioned within the British Airways lounge at London Heathrow Terminal 5B, the bar aims to provide a refreshing and luxurious experience for passengers before their flights.

Scheduled to open its doors this summer, the Whispering Angel lounge bar will offer Caves d’Esclans’ exquisite Whispering Angel rosé, known for its Provençal pink hue and delightful blend of sun-kissed peach, raspberry, and citrus undertones. Embracing the rosé’s delicate aesthetics, the bar will be adorned in a pale pink color scheme, perfectly reflecting the light tones of the wine served.

In addition to this exciting addition, British Airways will be revitalizing the B gates lounge at Terminal 5.

Passengers can look forward to new and reupholstered furniture, as well as a refreshed layout, creating an even more inviting and comfortable atmosphere.

The Whispering Angel bar will be a haven for British Airways’ customers, offering them an exclusive experience with a wine that has already been well-received in the airline’s First and Club lounges.

The airline aims to enhance its drink offerings further, recently appointing a full-time Master of Wine – the only one known to be appointed by an airline worldwide.

This commitment to excellence is evidenced by the introduction of four new English sparkling wines on board starting from March 2023.

Passengers flying in Club World can now savor the choice of two sparkling options, including the current resident, Heidsieck & Co. Monopole Silver Top Non-Vintage Champagne, as well as an exclusive English sparkling wine.

The latter, offered on a quarterly rotation, provides a rich variety of options.

Currently, customers can indulge in the Digby Fine English Brut NV, with the Balfour Rosé de Noirs from the Balfour Hush Heath Estate in Kent set to join the lineup from July. This delightful lighter rosé sparkling wine, crafted exclusively for British Airways, will be available solely in the airline’s Club World cabin, offering a truly unique and elevated experience at 35,000 feet.

Looking ahead, Simpsons Chalklands Cuvee Brut NV from Kent will grace the selection from October, providing passengers with a perfect choice to round off the year. And starting from January 2024, the refreshing Wiston Estate Brut NV from the South Downs will be introduced, featuring enticing citrus and toasty notes, a delightful way to ring in the new year.

Calum Laming, British Airways’ Chief Customer Officer, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming Whispering Angel bar, highlighting the positive feedback received from customers regarding the rosé already served in the lounges.

He said,

Our customers are already telling us how much they enjoy the Whispering Angel rosé we are serving in our lounges, so we are thrilled to be opening an exclusive Whispering Angel bar.

We truly believe this will be a massive hit with customers and we are excited that its introduction will coincide with a newly refurbished lounge in the satellite at London Heathrow Terminal 5 B gates.

Château d’Esclans, the producer of Whispering Angel, shared the excitement of the partnership with British Airways, expressing pride in collaborating to launch this stunning bar. They eagerly anticipate the opportunity to provide British Airways’ customers with a delightful glass of rosé before they take flight.

British Airways continues to redefine the inflight experience, focusing on enhancing its drinks offerings and setting new standards of luxury.

With the introduction of the Whispering Angel bar and an expanded selection of English sparkling wines, British Airways sets a new standard of luxury and ensures an extraordinary journey for its esteemed passengers from takeoff to touchdown.


Dave

Hilton Unveils Exclusive ‘Hilton on the Green’ Pop-Up Hotel Experience at RBC Canadian Open

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Hilton has unveiled the highly anticipated ‘Hilton on the Green’ pop-up hotel experience at the RBC Canadian Open, offering business travellers a unique and exciting blend of leisure and luxury right on the golf course.

Fore! the pop-up hotel will showcase Hilton Honors perks and Hilton’s upscale amenities, including superior beds and linens

From 6-11 June, golf enthusiasts and business travellers alike can revel in this unique, one-bedroom pop-up hotel located at the Oakdale Golf and Country Club in Toronto, Ontario.

On course: “At Hilton, we believe it matters where you stay”

Following its successful debut last year at Canada’s National Open Championships, where twelve fortunate guests had the extraordinary opportunity to spend the night right on the green, ‘Hilton on the Green’ returns with even more excitement.

Two additional lucky winners, selected through a contest earlier this year, will join renowned golf media personality Adam Stanley and Team Canada athlete Nicole Gal for an unforgettable overnight stay during the 2023 RBC Canadian Open.

Jennifer White, Hilton’s director of destination marketing, for US Domestic Markets and Canada, said

We are once again thrilled to bring this authentic, one-of-a-kind experience to the RBC Canadian Open and showcase the light and warmth of our hospitality in this unique location.

At Hilton, we believe it matters where you stay, and we’re delighted to help golf lovers and our Hilton Honors members experience the ultimate stay, right on a PGA Tournament golf course.

Fairway to heaven: guests will be greeted with the signature warm DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie and classic Hilton robes

The ‘Hilton on the Green’ concept received international acclaim and garnered extensive coverage in 2022, leading to its recognition as the Best Sponsor Activation by the LGPA Tournament Partners at the year-end ceremony.

This year, the pop-up hotel offers additional amenities, including wellness products such as the Therabody Wave Roller and Therabody Gun Elite, recognising the growing significance of physical well-being for travelers.

In fact, approximately 47% of travellers prioritise their physical wellness, making it an integral part of the future Hilton experience.

Situated on the fifth hole, the pop-up hotel continues to embody the essence of Hilton Honors perks and upscale amenities.

Playing partners: Golf Canada and Hilton have secured a multi-year partnership

Guests can indulge in superior beds and linens, accompanied by a personal concierge service and delectable meals delivered straight to their doorstep.

Additionally, they will be greeted with the signature warm DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie and classic Hilton robes, adding a touch of luxury to their stay.

This announcement coincides with the renewal of Golf Canada’s multi-year integrated partnership with Hilton, further solidifying Hilton’s position as the official hotel partner for the National Sport Federation and its members. Moreover, Hilton proudly joins hands with Team Canada, prominently featuring as the Official Hotel Partner on player uniforms.

Lisa Ferkul, chief commercial officer for Golf Canada said,

Following the success of the ‘Hilton on the Green’ activation at last year’s RBC Canadian Open and CPKC Women’s Open, we could not be more thrilled to see the return of this clever and authentic initiative again this year.

Thanks to our partners at Hilton for continually providing exceptional experiences for fans to enjoy.

Sustainable: the pop-up hotel was made from locally-sourced, sustainable materials

The construction of the pop-up hotel was carried out by independent agency FUSE Create, in collaboration with production partner Artam Design Inc. Canadian-made materials and sustainable resources were utilized throughout the fabrication, aligning with Hilton’s commitment to environmental consciousness.

Dave

UK corporate travellers enjoy triple Skywards Miles with IHG Hotels & Resorts and Emirates Skywards collaboration

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IHG Hotels & Resorts partners with Emirates Skywards to offer UK business travellers triple Skywards Miles for bookings at IHG properties worldwide, enhancing loyalty rewards and travel experiences.

IHG Hotels & Resorts, the luxury hotel business, has joined forces with Emirates Skywards, the award-winning loyalty program of Emirates and flydubai, to introduce an exclusive limited-time offer tailored to business travelers in the UK. This partnership allows members of IHG One Rewards and Emirates Skywards to earn triple Skywards Miles when booking a stay at any IHG Hotels & Resorts property worldwide.

Business travellers can now take advantage of this exceptional promotion to earn rewards faster. For every eligible charge at participating IHG Hotels & Resorts properties, guests will earn two Miles per $1 USD or local currency equivalent spent.

This offer extends to renowned hotel brands including InterContinental® Hotels & Resorts, Kimpton® Hotels & Restaurants, Regent® Hotels & Resorts, Hualuxe™ Hotels and Resorts, Crowne Plaza®, Hotel Indigo®, EVEN™ Hotels, voco™, Holiday Inn®, Holiday Inn Express®, Holiday Inn Club Vacations®, avid™ Hotels, and Vignette™ Collection hotels.

Candlewood Suites®, Staybridge Suites®, Atwell Suites, and The Venetian | The Palazzo Las Vegas will reward guests with 1 mile per $1 USD or local currency equivalent spent on eligible charges.

To take advantage of this offer, business travellers should register and make their hotel bookings by 30 June 2023.

Stays can be enjoyed until 30 September 2023, at any IHG Hotels and Resorts property worldwide.

Business travellers seeking a seamless travel experience will appreciate IHG One Rewards, the global loyalty program offered by IHG Hotels & Resorts. This program is designed to provide members with exceptional value, enhanced benefits, and the flexibility to choose their preferred rewards. With the ability to access a diverse portfolio of 18 brands and over 6,000 hotels worldwide, loyal members can conveniently manage their rewards through the all-new IHG mobile app.

Emirates Skywards, with over 30 million members worldwide, offers an array of attractive rewards for business travellers. From flight tickets on Emirates and partner airlines to flight upgrades, hotel stays, and tickets to exclusive events, Emirates Skywards ensures its members are well-rewarded for their loyalty.

Through the partnership with IHG Hotels & Resorts, Emirates Skywards members can now further enhance their travel experiences and maximize their rewards.

For business travellers based in the UK, the collaboration between IHG Hotels & Resorts and Emirates Skywards presents a compelling opportunity. By earning triple Skywards Miles at various IHG Hotels & Resorts properties worldwide, guests can enjoy a comfortable and rewarding travel experience. Don’t miss out on this limited-time offer; register and book your stay today to unlock a world of possibilities and elevate your corporate travel experience.

Paul Baker of Global Travel Management was impressed with the offer, he said,

For business travellers based in the UK, the collaboration between IHG Hotels & Resorts and Emirates Skywards presents a compelling opportunity.

By earning triple Skywards Miles at various IHG Hotels & Resorts properties worldwide, guests can enjoy a comfortable and rewarding travel experience. Don’t miss out on this limited-time offer; register and book your stay today to unlock a world of possibilities and elevate your corporate travel experience.