The Reserve at Chester Zoo, the overnight safari-style lodges, has been shortlisted in the AA Hospitality Awards, with the winners set to be announced next month at a ceremony in London.
AA Hotel and Hospitality Services has announced the finalists for six major categories of its prestigious annual awards. The awards "celebrate the very best of UK hospitality, shining a spotlight on the people, teams and businesses setting the benchmark for excellence across the sector."
Now in its 29th year, they honour those who "continually raise standards and deliver outstanding guest experiences across the UK." This year's event will also mark a significant milestone for AA Hotel & Hospitality Services, celebrating 70 years of the AA Rosette award, one of the industry's most respected symbols of culinary excellence.
The Reserve Shortlisted for Rising Star Award
Finalists were selected by a panel of judges who reviewed each category, choosing those who "have demonstrated outstanding quality, innovation and an unwavering commitment to excellence over the past year." The Reserve at Chester Zoo was included in the AA Rising Star Award, which is sponsored by Caterer.com. Employee Danielle Lorne was shortlisted for the award, which "recognises emerging talent making a significant impact early in their hospitality career."
The category is open to individuals from across front and back-of-house, management and support roles. It "celebrates those demonstrating exceptional potential, passion, innovation and commitment to excellence." The other two finalists are Isaac Arikawe of Grantley Hall, Yorkshire, and Ilona Harris of Cromlix, Stirling, Scotland.
Ceremony and Other Categories
The winners will be revealed at a ceremony on Monday, September 21 at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House, London. Other categories include: AA Housekeeper of the Year, AA Sustainable Award, AA Spa Hotel of the Year, AA Large Hotel Team of the Year Award, and AA Small Hotel Team of the Year Award.
Other awards to be announced on the night include the AA Chefs' Chef of the Year award and the winners of the AA B&B Awards. Simon Numphud, Managing Director of AA Hotel & Hospitality Services, said: "Congratulations to all of this year's finalists. They represent the passion, innovation and dedication that make the UK hospitality sector so extraordinary.
"There is exceptional work happening across our industry with individuals, teams and businesses continually raising standards to deliver memorable guest experiences, often in the face of significant challenges. We look forward to celebrating the achievements of those who have not only raised the bar but also inspire others to do the same."
First Anniversary Celebrated
The announcement comes as The Reserve celebrates one year since it opened on August 18. In a post shared on Instagram, Chester Zoo wrote: "Our AMAZING hotel, @thereservechesterzoo , is one-year-old today - and what a year it's been!
"Over the past 12 months, we've welcomed 31,091 guests from 36 countries, with visitors travelling from across the globe to experience a stay. We've greeted guests aged from 6 months to 100 years old, celebrated 6 engagements, hosted 18 wedding night stays, and celebrated the births of some very special animals... THREE blesbok calves.
"It's been a year full of unforgettable moments - all while helping wildlife thrive! Because when you stay at The Reserve, you're not just making memories, you're directly supporting Chester Zoo's vital conservation work, helping protect and save endangered species. Thank you to every guest who has stayed and helped make this first year so special."
