Clayton Whites Hotel Wexford Acquired by Seamus Neville of Neville Hotels
Clayton Whites Hotel in Wexford has a new owner. Local businessman Seamus Neville, who runs Neville Hotels, has bought the hotel, which has served the town for nearly 250 years.
Dalata Hotel Group, the current owner, announced the sale and plans to engage with employees to ensure a smooth transition to Neville Hotels. This sale follows the recent sale of the Maldron Hotel outside Wexford town to another local group, Neville Park Hotel Group.
Dalata also stated that the money earned from both hotel sales will be returned to shareholders through a buyback program announced on October 15. The company remains committed to the Irish market, where it operates Clayton and Maldron hotels. The deal for Clayton Whites is expected to finalize in January.
This acquisition will expand Neville Hotels’ portfolio, which includes the Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire and the newly opened Ravenport Resort in Curracloe, Wexford. Therese Kelly, Director of Neville Hotels, expressed excitement about the addition, noting the strong management team at Clayton Whites and a commitment to maintaining the hotel’s popularity with further investment.
What are the key improvements planned for Clayton Whites Hotel after its acquisition by Neville Hotels?
Interview with Therese Kelly, Director of Neville Hotels, on the Acquisition of Clayton Whites Hotel
News Directory 3: Thank you for joining us, Therese. Can you share what this acquisition of Clayton Whites Hotel means for Neville Hotels?
Therese Kelly: Thank you for having me. The acquisition of Clayton Whites Hotel is an exciting milestone for Neville Hotels. This historic hotel has been part of Wexford’s fabric for almost 250 years, and we are committed to preserving its legacy while also investing in its future. This acquisition not only enhances our portfolio but also strengthens our presence in the local hospitality sector.
News Directory 3: Clayton Whites Hotel has a rich history. How does Neville Hotels plan to respect and honor that history?
Therese Kelly: Absolutely. The history of Clayton Whites is remarkable, and we fully acknowledge its significance. Our plan is to maintain the hotel’s unique character while upgrading amenities and services to meet modern expectations. We want to ensure that both new and returning guests feel the charm of its storied past while enjoying contemporary comforts.
News Directory 3: Can you elaborate on the management team you mentioned and how they will contribute to the hotel’s future?
Therese Kelly: The management team at Clayton Whites is incredibly experienced and passionate about the hotel and the community. Their local knowledge and dedication to hospitality are invaluable assets. We believe that by working together, we can enhance guest experiences and maintain high standards of service, ensuring the hotel continues to be a popular choice for visitors.
News Directory 3: Dalata Hotel Group mentioned they will engage with employees for a smooth transition. How do you plan to approach this?
Therese Kelly: Engaging with the current staff during the transition is a top priority for us. We believe that the hotel’s employees are its greatest asset, and we want to ensure they feel valued and supported throughout this change. Our goal is to have open lines of communication, gather feedback, and involve them in discussions about the hotel’s future.
News Directory 3: The sale follows the recent sale of the Maldron Hotel in Wexford to another local group. What does this say about the local hospitality market?
Therese Kelly: The recent sale trends indicate a growing confidence in the local hospitality market. Local groups are stepping up to invest in these cherished institutions, which speaks volumes about the commitment to revitalizing and enhancing tourism in Wexford. We believe that a local touch can make a significant difference in how these hotels operate and engage with the community.
News Directory 3: What can potential guests expect from Clayton Whites Hotel post-acquisition?
Therese Kelly: Guests can look forward to some exciting developments! We plan to invest in both infrastructure and services to elevate their experience. Our aim is to create a welcoming atmosphere where guests can enjoy both the history of the hotel and modern conveniences. We intend to introduce new initiatives that will appeal to various demographics, including families, couples, and business travelers.
News Directory 3: what’s your vision for the future of Neville Hotels and Clayton Whites Hotel?
Therese Kelly: Our vision is to create a collection of unique hotels that offer something special to each guest. We want to ensure that Clayton Whites becomes a cornerstone of the Wexford community, attracting not only tourists but also locals who want to experience the best hospitality. With our focus on quality service, investment, and community engagement, we are excited about the future of both Neville Hotels and Clayton Whites.
News Directory 3: Thank you, Therese, for sharing your insights. We look forward to seeing the growth and changes at Clayton Whites Hotel under your stewardship.
Dermot Crowley, CEO of Dalata Hotel Group, acknowledged the importance of Clayton Whites in their operations and thanked the hotel staff for their dedication.
Clayton Whites Hotel, one of the oldest in Ireland, opened around 1779. Its historic location has hosted notable figures, including Oscar Wilde’s mother and explorer Sir Robert McClure. The hotel has also played a role in the Wexford Festival Opera.