Hotel Football kicks off deal with Marriott
THE former Manchester United stars behind Hotel Football have announced a partnership with international hotel chain Marriott.
Under a franchise agreement the hotel, which is a stone’s throw from Old Trafford, marks Tribute Portfolio’s second opening in the UK.
However it will remain majority owned by Singapore businessman Peter Lim and former footballers Gary Neville, Ryan Giggs, Nicky Butt, Paul Scholes and Philip Neville.
GG Hospitality, the management company owned by the same group, will continue to manage and operate the property.
Situated near Manchester United’s home ground, the 133-room hotel fits with Marriott International’s independent hotel brand as it aims to open more ‘characterful hotels in high-demand destinations across Europe.’
Gary Neville said: “Being part of Tribute Portfolio’s range of independent hotels makes perfect sense – they connect people with places and each hotel has its own character, rooted in the local community.”
And fellow owner Giggs added that the hotel is now part of the Marriott’s loyalty programmes.
He added: “This will have a very positive impact on us as well as help drive international visitors coming into Manchester.”
This sounds like good news for trav- ellers as the hotel has promised to launch ‘a range of new packages and offers’ following on from the announcement.
Winston Zahra, chief executive officer of GG Hospitality said: “We have established Hotel Football as a very strong concept in Manchester over the past four years.
“This new association with Marriott International helps us reach new travellers looking for remarkable accommodation, characterful design and vibrant social spaces.
“We are very much looking forward to working closely with Tribute Portfolio to continue to deliver the best in hospitality to our guests.”
The CEO also reassured that the move will not impact the current hotel experience.
He said: “Hotel Football will continue to be operated by GG Hospitality and the ownership remains the same.
“We will not be making any changes to what we offer and the experience will remain purely Hotel Football.”
Along with a rooftop five-a-side football pitch, the hotel is also home to the 750-capacity Old Trafford Supporters Club which comes equipped with pool tables, TV screens and terracedthemed food like pie and peas.
On match days fans can also enjoy a drink in the Players’ Lounge or Stadium Suite, where a four-course meal is followed by a special appearance and a Q&A session with a former Manchester United star.