Business Manchester

Manufacturing underway in Hyde as Invopak opens new factory

Helen Greaney

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30/01/2025

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Manufacturing underway in Hyde as Invopak opens new factory

The sound of machinery echoes once again in Hyde as Invopak opens a new metal packaging factory.

Invopak is a packaging distributor, supplying thousands of businesses with buckets, tubs and tins.

Making the move into manufacturing has been years in the planning and is a real step-change for the business.

CEO Arjen Cooper-Rolfe said: “Creating tins in Manchester is a massive moment for us. For more than 50 years we’ve developed and innovated in the supply of containers into a wide range of industries both here in the UK and abroad and now we’re realising our long-held ambition of manufacturing them too”.

Invopak’s new 60,000sqft manufacturing operation in Dunkirk Lane has already made a positive impact on the local community.

“We have hired several highly skilled engineers, who have helped our plant run smoothly. Moreover, our plant is tailor-made, built from scratch, and offers a brand new and exciting environment, which people find appealing,” said Scott Sandilands, Invopak’s CRO.

Creating skilled job opportunities in the Hyde area is just part of the picture. For Invopak’s customers, it also means they can buy high quality, 100% recyclable packaging that’s made here in the UK.

Image: Gavin Affleck and Claire Rolfe from Invopak with the first pallet-loads of Manchester-made tins

Inaugural gala dinner set to raise thousands for children’s charities

Helen Greaney

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30/01/2025

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Inaugural gala dinner set to raise thousands for children’s charities

Class of 92 backed-charity Foundation 92 and the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity have revealed plans for its inaugural ‘Champions for Children’ Gala Dinner.

The event, hosted by legendary presenters Jenny Powell and Hits Radio UK DJ Mike Toolan, will take place at Victoria Warehouse on March 20, and aims to raise thousands of pounds for both charities.

A glamorous evening of dining and entertainment will see a host of well-known business figures and famous faces come together to celebrate some life-changing projects.

There will be a three-course meal as well as charity auction and raffle, and live entertainment throughout the evening. A silent auction with one-of-a-kind, money can’t buy prizes – including an appearance on Gary Neville’s The Overlap podcast – will also be on offer.

Foundation 92 was founded by the Class of 92 in 2018 and is based in Salford. The charity works across the North-West with a number of different community groups improving lives through sport, education and bespoke projects, with an emphasis on positive physical and mental wellbeing.

The Foundation supports the wider community, offering help to those living with additional needs and disabilities, those tackling homelessness and young people who have or may be at risk of committing offences.

The charity uses innovative programmes that specialise in health and wellbeing, education and employability skills, community inclusion and youth outreach working closely with partners across Salford and Greater Manchester.

The gala dinner will also support two projects at RMCH (pictured), the largest children’s hospital in the country, including the hospital’s pioneering Youth Service which supports patients aged 11 and over with long-term health conditions. The RMCH service – one of only three hospital youth services in the country – empowers young people to find their voice, build confidence, and navigate the challenges of their condition, both in hospital and at home.

The dinner will also support patients cared for in the hospital’s inpatient mental health unit, funding workshops that enable patients to use music and creative expression to build confidence, self-esteem and re-establish their identity.

CEO of Foundation 92, Tom Hutton said: “We are delighted to announce the first Champions for Children Gala Dinner which has been in planning for many months. The work of both Foundation 92 and Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity does support people across the community with vital projects and this is a night for celebrating them.

“We hope the dinner will not only shine a light on some of the programmes and initiatives we both work on but also support in raising funds to ensure both charities can continue operating and expanding their services across the North-West and beyond.”

Viv Williamson, events manager at Manchester Foundation Trust Charity said: “Every table booking, every auction bid and every raffle ticket purchase at the Champions For Children Gala Dinner has the potential to make a truly life-changing impact on the futures of children and young people in the region, whilst also shedding a light on the pioneering work of both charities.

“We’re so excited to be teaming up with Foundation 92 and this event is such a special opportunity to bring the Manchester business community together for a spectacular evening, knowing that every contribution will make a difference and support life-changing work of both charities in the future.”

The event is sponsored by Godel Technologies, a Manchester-based software company. Tables and sponsorship packages can be purchased by emailing: [email protected]

Image credit: MFT charity

Personal trainer jailed for grooming 15-year-old girl

Crime

Helen Greaney

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30/01/2025

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Personal trainer jailed for grooming 15-year-old girl

A “deplorable” personal trainer who befriended and groomed a child, has been jailed.

Matthew Lawrence (42) of Mount Drive, Trafford, pleaded guilty to sexual communication with a child, and two counts of sexual activity with a child and received a sentence of three years, nine months in jail, when he appeared at Minshull Crown Court on Tuesday.

He is also subject to an indefinite restraining order and sexual notification order, and a 10 year sexual harm prevention order.

In August 2023, Greater Manchester Police received information that Lawrence was having a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old child.

At the time, Lawrence was a personal trainer in a gym and had befriended the girl by offering to train her and help her with her diet and nutrition.

The manager of the gym was concerned that the victim was not over the age of 16, as per the gym’s membership requirements, and approached Lawrence advising him to terminate her membership to which Lawrence replied, ‘Don’t ban her, in case she goes to the police.’

In past conversations, Lawrence had said he preferred dating younger girls as he liked their ‘innocence.’ He had also bragged to another member of the gym that he had been exchanging indecent images with the victim.

Staff at the gym were concerned by Lawrence’s behaviour and were fearful that he had groomed the female, so reported him to the police.

Lawrence was circulated as wanted, and he was arrested by GMP officers at London Airport in September 2023. This swift arrest prevented him from starting a new job as a personal trainer on a cruise ship.

Detectives tracked down several witnesses who stated that they were in the presence of Lawrence when he learned that the victim was just 15 years old. Further evidence was found on his mobile device to support this, including text messages between Lawrence and his associates which proved that he knew the victim was a child, and despite them warning him to stop communicating with her, he continued.

In August 2023, the victim bravely confided in her mother and told her that Lawrence had tried to kiss her, and physically forced her to commit sexual acts on him.

When interviewed by specially trained officers, the victim disclosed that Lawrence had taken her to the cinema, as a reward for training so hard in the gym, before sexually assaulting her in his locked car.

Phone analysis was conducted which showed that in the space of just a month, there were more than 3000 calls and texts between Lawrence and the girl. Many of these were of a sexually explicit nature, and there was also evidence that Lawrence bought her several gifts over the period.

Detective constable Amy Brookes said: “Lawrence was warned by acquaintances on several occasions about talking to an underage girl, yet he continued to groom the young victim and sexually assault her. He lied throughout the interview process to try and minimise his actions, so we welcome this sentence today.

“His deplorable behaviour had a huge impact on the young victim, and she has shown such bravery in speaking to us. I hope that she feels some reassurance knowing this man is now behind bars, and our partner agencies will continue to support her moving forward, giving her the care and support she needs.

“We know that coming forward to the police isn’t always easy, and we are working tirelessly to improve the trust and confidence that the public and victims and survivors have in us. I hope from this investigation, anyone who has been a victim of crime, or has experienced abuse or exploitation knows that whenever they are ready to come forward, we will support them.”

Girls’ football team launches fundraiser to play at a national level

Sport

Helen Greaney

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30/01/2025

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Girls’ football team launches fundraiser to play at a national level

A girls’ football team has launched a fundraising campaign in a bid to play at a national level.

The Player Progression Coaching (PPC) Lionesses under 9 girls’ team is raising funds to take them to the UK’s premier national youth football tournament – The One Tournament in Warwickshire.

The Manchester line-up has gone from strength-to-strength since it was formed in September 2024, winning a series of tournament titles and progressing through the ranks of the city’s most competitive football league, dominated by boys’ teams.

The PPC Lionesses recently made history after being announced as the first all-girl squad to reach the top league in the Manchester Youth Super League (MYSL) competing against boys their own age.

The 13-strong team of girls aged 8 and 9 including players from Salford now has several players attending Emerging Talent Centres at professional football clubs throughout the North West.

The community fundraising campaign is aimed at raising £2,500 to cover entry fees, travel and accommodation for each player to attend the national tournament.

Ashley Holland, PPC founder said: “It’s been a joy to be part of the girls’ progression, and to see how far they’ve come in such a short space of time really demonstrates their talent, love for the game and determination to succeed.

“We’re passionate about girls’ development here at PPC and are always on the lookout for opportunities where the team can challenge themselves and progress as young players. That’s why we knew we had to test ourselves against the best boys’ teams in the region, and why we want to attend national tournaments like this one, to compete against the best girls’ teams in the country and show what we can do.

“But getting to these tournaments isn’t always easy and this support will ensure that each and every player will have the access to these amazing opportunities, to become the best that they can be.”

Billy Hilton, owner of Manchester Youth Super League (MYSL), said: “MYSL are proud to play a part in the development of these U9 girls. To play in our highest division at their own age is a testament to both the players and coaches dedication and effort. They are the first all-girls team to do this in the history of MYSL and we welcome and challenge more girls’ teams to follow in their footsteps.”

To make a donation visit: https://fundraising.spond.com/ihGabuqDe

Air Sea Containers Expands Services with New UN Packaging Testing Facility

Manufacturing

News Desk

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30/01/2025

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Air Sea Containers Expands Services with New UN Packaging Testing Facility

Air Sea Containers, a leading UK supplier of compliant packaging for hazardous goods, has established a new testing facility in Wirral, focusing on UN approved packaging.

Accredited by UKAS to ISO/IEC 17025 standards, this state-of-the-art laboratory provides extensive testing capabilities for businesses across the UK. It supports companies in obtaining UN approval through performance testing for packaging used in the transportation of dangerous goods.

State-of-the-Art Testing Services

The new test lab is fitted with high-tech testing equipment and staffed by a team of experienced dangerous goods packaging specialists. The lab’s services cover a wide range of critical tests, including:

Drop Testing:
Drops simulate real-world handling and transit conditions to test packaging durability.

Stack Testing:
Tests the package strength and stability under compression, simulating stacking during long-haul transport or storage conditions.

Material Specification Checks:
Product specifications are examined and recorded, this is to ensure that each production run uses the exact same materials and specifications used to create the UN approved packaging.

All tests are conducted using calibrated equipment under strict environmental conditions providing consistent results.

Testing Services Available

With the new test lab, Air Sea Containers offer clients testing facilities for steel drums, fibre drums, fibreboard boxes and plastic boxes.

Services on offer include:

Testing of Customer’s Own Packaging:

Tests can be undertaken on customer’s own packaging requiring UN approval, including drop tests, stack tests, cold conditioning and material specification checks.

Custom Made Packaging Testing:

A full-service solution for custom made packaging which includes design, development, testing, coordination of UN certification, manufacturing of product and ongoing maintenance of UN certification. The entire packaging design, approval and production process is managed for the customer.

Revalidation Checks:

UN approved packaging requires revalidation checks after a set period of time (typically 5 years in the UK). Air Sea Containers offer Revalidation Testing Services. This is to ensure the UN approved product is still being made to the exact specification which passed the UN Testing process resulting in UN approved packaging.

Capability Testing:

Capability testing of packaging for dangerous goods where UN approved packaging is not mandatory, but capability may be required, such as limited quantity and lithium battery packaging where applicable.

Authorised by the VCA

Each test rigorously adheres to UN packaging requirements stipulated in the UN transport of dangerous goods regulations. After successful testing, Air Sea Containers work with the VCA to gain UN certification, offering fully certified results for their clients.

A Commitment to Compliant Packaging

The Wirral based test lab highlights Air Sea Containers’ commitment to providing compliant and certified packaging options. The company’s expertise in regulatory compliance reinforces its position as a trusted partner for businesses transporting dangerous goods.

About Air Sea Containers

Established in 1981, Air Sea Containers has been a UK leader in compliant packaging solutions for over four decades. Serving industries from petrochemical and pharmaceuticals to retail and manufacturing, the company specialises in UN certified packaging, regulatory compliance, and now UN approval testing services.

For more information on the new test lab or to explore packaging solutions, please contact Air Sea Containers at: [email protected] or visit www.airseadg.com.

Advice for businesses competing in the job market without meeting industry salary expectations

Business

News Desk

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28/01/2025

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Advice for businesses competing in the job market without meeting industry salary expectations

In today’s competitive job market, businesses that cannot offer salaries matching industry standards may feel at a disadvantage.

However, with strategic approaches and an understanding of what employees value beyond pay, businesses can position themselves as attractive employers. Here are key strategies to help you stand out:

Emphasise non-monetary benefits

Salary is only one component of a compensation package. Consider options such as:

Flexible working arrangements: Allow employees to work from home, set their own hours, or work compressed weeks. Flexibility is increasingly valued, particularly by younger generations.
Additional leave: Offer extra annual leave, mental health days, or birthdays off. These small perks can have a big impact.
Modern payroll options: Implement a flexible wage system with features like on-demand pay access, mobile accessibility, self-service portals, and wage advances. These benefits improve financial wellbeing, transparency, and convenience.

Offering attractive non-monetary benefits can help bridge the gap.

Build a strong company culture

A positive workplace that prioritises work-life balance and job satisfaction can often outweigh monetary concerns. To achieve this:

Recognise achievements: Publicly celebrate employee accomplishments, both big and small.
Support wellbeing: Provide resources such as wellness programmes, access to counselling services, or gym discounts.
Regular team lunches: Build camaraderie and morale with casual, social gatherings.

Implementing these benefits can create an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and engaged.

Highlight opportunities for growth

Many employees are drawn to positions where they see potential for advancement. Even if you can’t offer the highest salary, showcasing clear career progression pathways can make your roles more appealing. Regularly discuss growth opportunities during interviews and performance reviews to demonstrate your commitment to their development.

Offer creative incentives

If you can’t provide top-tier salaries, think creatively about additional incentives. Consider options such as:

Profit-sharing schemes: Share a portion of the company’s profits with employees to create a sense of ownership.
Equity options: Offer shares or stock options to align employees’ interests with the business’s success.
Referral bonuses: Reward employees for bringing in new talent through referral programmes.
Performance vouchers: Recognise exceptional performance with gift cards or vouchers.

Even small gestures can breed goodwill and enhance employee satisfaction.

Conclusion

While competing on salary alone may not be feasible, businesses can focus on alternative ways to attract and retain top talent. By offering non-monetary benefits, cultivating a strong company culture, and investing in professional development, businesses can position themselves as employers of choice in a competitive job market.

Mill Gate Shopping Centre flushes out competition to win top loos award

Awards

Helen Greaney

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28/01/2025

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Mill Gate Shopping Centre flushes out competition to win top loos award

Mill Gate Shopping Centre has won the Platinum Loo of the Year Award for the third year running.

The prestigious award, recognised as a gold standard for away-from-home washroom facilities, highlights the Bury shopping centre’s ongoing dedication to delivering exceptional hygiene and cleanliness to its customers.

The Loo of the Year Awards is an annual event that evaluates thousands of washrooms across the UK based on 101 judging criteria, including décor, cleanliness, management, and facilities.

An unannounced inspection by the awards committee ensures that only the highest-quality washrooms are recognised.

Mill Gate’s consistent achievement of this top honour speaks to the commitment of its staff and management in maintaining outstanding facilities for visitors.

“We are pleased that our team’s dedication to cleanliness and customer service has once again been recognised with this award,” said Angela Tierney, centre manager.

“We all know a first-class washroom experience is incredibly important and that’s reflected in our customer feedback.”

Image: Crowning glory: Graham Bentley (centre manager) with the trophy

Two men jailed for knifepoint robbery in Bury

Crime

News Desk

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28/01/2025

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Two men jailed for knifepoint robbery in Bury

Two men who were involved in a knifepoint robbery in Bury, have been jailed.

Rian Hitchman (20) of no fixed abode was sentenced to two years and Owen Parkes (22) of Hanson Street, Bury, three years and six months at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court on Friday, after pleading guilty to robbery at a previous hearing.

The pair were involved in a violent knifepoint robbery in Bury town centre at around 5am on Saturday, September 21, 2024.

The victim was befriended by Parkes (pictured right) and Hitchman (pictured left) and was targeted due to his intoxication, which made him particularly vulnerable. The victim left a club just after 4am and walked down Silver Street, stopping outside a bar which Parkes and Hitchman were in.

Both men left the bar and walked straight to the victim. The victim agreed to get in a taxi with Hitchman and Parkes, dropping them off near an underpass, where the victim was then robbed.

One of the men made demands for the victim to hand over personal items, while the other produced a knife and pointed it towards the victim’s throat.

Around two minutes later Parkes and Hitchman emerged from the underpass, but the victim was nowhere to be seen. He managed to flag down a passing ambulance and told them of his ordeal and he received treatment.

On Friday, October 4, 2024, police were informed of another incident involving two men in Bury town centre. Upon reviewing the CCTV, officers believed them to be the same men involved in the first robbery.

PC Hubbard said: “This is an excellent result with two dangerous offenders locked up and away from harming vulnerable victims.

“The pair targeted a victim who had been out drinking and was therefore vulnerable, subjecting them to a terrifying ordeal by threatening them with a knife.

“I must thank the victim for the bravery shown in reporting this to us and helping us with our investigation. If you have any concerns about crime come and speak to officers or alternatively report through 101 or via LiveChat on gmp.police.uk. Always call 999 in an emergency.”

Top 10 Cars for Ski Holidays Revealed by Turo

Travel

News Desk

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28/01/2025

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Top 10 Cars for Ski Holidays Revealed by Turo

Nearly 27% of British skiers plan to drive to European ski resorts this winter.
Turo offers ideal vehicles for ski trips, from £52 a day,* including luxury SUVs such as Porsche, Mercedes, and Range Rover models.

Car-sharing service Turo has revealed its top 10 car picks for Ski and Snow adventures, helping travellers prepare for the half-term rush to the slopes.

An estimated 27%** of UK skiers will be hitting the road this winter to drive to European ski resorts. Many will be in search of short-term car rentals or upgrades to ensure their journey is as safe and comfortable as possible. According to Turo, “All-wheel drive” has become a leading search term on its platform, underlining this demand.

To create its recommendations, Turo assessed vehicles using five criteria: all-wheel or four-wheel drive capability, ground clearance, heating efficiency, advanced safety technology, and generous boot space.

Based on these requirements, Turo has identified some of the best vehicles for hire in the UK, ranging from affordable options starting at £52 per day* to high-end models like the Land Rover Defender. These cars are ideal for long drives to the mountains this winter. Before setting off, travellers driving in France are reminded to check regulations****, including the requirement to carry snow chains for use on snowy mountain roads.

10. Kia Sorento

At just £57 per day*, the Kia Sorento, with its all-wheel drive, heated seats and snow tires is a fantastic option for those not looking to break the bank before their holiday has begun. This model also features a high quality sound system and multiple ways to connect your devices to help those motorway miles fly by.

9. Audi S4 Avant

The Audi S4 Avant is an ideal grand tourer, and will eat up the miles on the way to the slopes with ease, all while keeping you and your passengers comfortable. At prices from £94 per day*, this model boasts plenty of boot space, as well as the potential for a roof rack for extra space for all your gear.

8. MG HS

Another option at the lower end of the price spectrum, the MG HS more than holds its own against other models at a price from just £55 per day*. All-wheel drive and heated seats are crucial features, but many may be pleased to see that this model is also pet-friendly, potentially saving you the hassle of finding a dogsitter during your trip.

7. Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

This snow white Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is a great option for any trip and at a price from just £52 per day*, it is another great value car. It includes heated seats, all-wheel drive and a backup camera for that tricky Alpine parking.

6. Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 is a strong option for long drives, with a roof-rack, all wheel drive, backup camera and large boot. At prices from £61 per day*, this model would be a contender for the top spots if it had heated seats.

5. Porsche Cayenne

From £84 per day*, the Porsche Cayenne is a great option for those looking for a comfortable drive and to look good doing it. This stylish model offers all-wheel drive, heated seats, plenty of space and a panoramic sunroof for those mountain views.

4. Range Rover Sport

The first 7-seater in this list is a high scorer for a number of reasons, not least because it will get the whole group to the slopes in style. This Range Rover Sport, available from £109 per day*, becomes great value if you are splitting the cost between all seven available seats and also boasts all-wheel drive, heated seats and a range of other mod-cons.

3. Mitsubishi Outlander

Another 7-seater, this time from just £81 per day*, the Mitsubishi Outlander features oodles of boot space, snow tires and in-car entertainment systems to make that long drive more palatable. This is on top of all the features you’d expect including all-wheel drive and parking assist, a top option for any trip.

2. Land Rover 110 Defender

The Land Rover 110 Defender is among the highest spec models you could want for a winter road trip to the Alps. With heated seats, steering wheel, and height control, as well as plenty of space and comfortable driving, it is only the higher price, from £173 per day* that keeps this off top spot.

1. Volvo XC90

Even after nine great options, this Volvo XC90 stands out as the perfect vehicle for any trip to, and around, the Alps this winter. This model has it all with seven heated seats, 455 brake horsepower, and plenty of room for all your gear. From just £128 per day*, you’d be hard pressed to find a more ideal car to rent for the journey to the slopes.

Rory Brimmer, Director at car sharing marketplace Turo, commented:

“For anyone hitting the slopes this winter and wanting to avoid flights, or just give yourself the freedom to get around easily while you’re in the chalet, renting one of these cars is a great option to increase your levels of comfort or practicality. Each of these options has its own positives and would be a great option, at a range of price points.

Car sharing is a fantastic way for the owners of cars such as these to top up their income and share the cars they love with other enthusiasts when they aren’t using them. There is a wide range of options on the Turo platform, from the exclusive to the accessible, from the sensible to the showstopping. Best of all there’s no need to wait around at a rental desk or trek all the way out to an airport to pick up your car.”

To learn more about Turo, please visit www.turo.com

Almost Famous to close its Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds branches

Hospitality

Helen Greaney

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27/01/2025

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Almost Famous to close its Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds branches

Popular burger chain Almost Famous is to close all of its branches in Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds.

The owner Beau Myers, was disappointed to made the announcement this morning, citing the current economic crisis and lingering debt for the closures.

When the original Northern Quarter site opened in 2012, there were queues round the block for customers wanting to sample its ‘dirty burgers’.

But despite expanding to Leeds and Liverpool, the Withington branch was forced to close after the owner posted on social media, that it was struggling.

Now the branches in the Great Northern and in the Northern Quarter, will also go.

Beau said: “It is with broken hearts that today, 27th January 2025, we announce the closure of all Almost Famous venues across Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds.

“The current economic climate has proven too challenging for us to overcome, with lingering debt from Covid and rising costs across every aspect of the business. Despite our best efforts, we are no longer able to continue.

“For over 13 years, we’ve had the privilege of working alongside some of the most talented and passionate people in hospitality. We will do everything we can to support you during this transition.

“If anyone in the hospitality industry has job opportunities, we kindly ask you to reach out to us at [email protected] – helping our team find new roles is our top priority right now.”