Summer opening can ensure hotel recovers
Bosses at Gleneagles Hotel have said they are confident the resort can bounce back from repeated closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic so long as they are allowed to continue accepting guests again this summer.
Newly published accounts covering the 15 month period leading up to March last year show staff made around £66 million worth of sales in that time compared to around £55m in 2018.
The accounts show the hotel made an overall pre-tax loss of around £5m over the period, however, compared to a profit of £55,000 the previous year.
Managers say the pandemic saw “reduced demand” for rooms in the first three months of 2020 and this was a factor in recording a pre-tax loss last year.
The hotel had to close twice last year owing to outbreaks of COVID but bosses announced last month they hope to start welcoming guests back again from Monday, April 26.
Director Conor O’Leary said in a report submitted to Companies House along with the accounts: “The business performed well during the period with turnover in line with expectations. Operating profit has decreased compared against the previous year end with the extended 15-month period including three less profitable months twice.
“Our multi-million pound refurbishment programme is continuing with the opening of our new meeting and events space the Billiard Room and Parlour, re-opening of the flagship Strathearn restaurant, upgrading facilities at The Club, development of the Retail Arcade and further refurbishment of the hotel’s room stock.
“These renovations are set to further enhance Gleneagles’ position as a ‘Glorious
Playground’ at the heart of the Scottish countryside.”
Mr O’Leary went on: “During the summer of 2020, the hotel was able to achieve reasonable occupancy levels and operate profitably within the revised COVID-19 guidelines, this gives the directors confidence over the company’s outlook for the remainder of 2021, should the hotel be able to open in time to capture the summer peak trading periods.”