A boutique hotel and spa in Congresbury has thanked guests and customers for their ‘phenomenal’ support since it reopened.
Cadbury House, in Congresbury, has seen business boom with people keen to mark missed celebrations during the pandemic.
The venue, in Frost Hill, comprises a four-star boutique hotel, a Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill, an award-winning health club and spa and an Italian restaurant.
General manager Mehmet Kandemir said: “Across all our business elements there is no disputing that the past 18 months has been arguably the toughest on record. The hotel, the restaurants, weddings, conference and events, the health club and spa have all been impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic and the implications of lockdown.
“However, where and when we were able to reopen, the response from guests, customers and members has been phenomenal.
“We employ a lot of local people and use a lot of local suppliers, so it’s been vital to out see this pandemic not only for those directly involved but for everyone locally. The restaurants were very busy when lockdown was eased before and the hotel was able to host key workers.
“Pent-up demand that built up over the last 18 months has seen all elements of our business increase significantly.”
Marco Pierre White Steakhouse and Bardolino Pizzeria have seen an increase in diners since restrictions have eased, with a number of people booking up for Christmas celebrations already.
The venue offered intimate weddings from May to June, but business returned to normal on June 21 when they were able to welcome full wedding parties.
Mr Kandemir said: “Since then, we’ve had plenty of enquiries as couples look to tie the knot and bookings are already looking very strong right into 2022.
“During the summer, with restrictions still in place regarding travelling abroad, staycations and holidays in the UK boomed and we benefitted in an upturn in enquiries for rooms during the summer period and was just what we need to recoup what we lost over the last year or so.
“And because we missed out on so much over the past 18 months, we’ve resurrected events such as our murder mystery nights, music nights and firework display. Christmas is going to be huge this year and we’ve already started taking bookings as people look to catch up for lost time.”
Cadbury House is operating under the recommended Covid-19 guidelines and the venue wants to reassure its guests and customers that staff have gone ‘above and beyond what’s expected’ to ensure their safety.
Mr Kandemir added: “We take great pride in maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene and we’ve taken every precaution so that those who visit, can do so safe in the knowledge that all has been done to safeguard their health and that of the staff.
“I’d like to add as well that the response from customers has been amazing. They understand that it’s been a difficult time for all involved in hospitality however, there’s been a real buzz and once customers have been in to enjoy either lunch, afternoon tea or dinner they could see for themselves the measures we had put in place to ensure the safety of both guests and staff.
“This, without question, made them feel comfortable and the same applies now we can once again reopen and can’t wait to welcome guests here at Cadbury House.
“As one of the biggest employers in the region and the second biggest inward investor behind the airport, Cadbury House is vital for the local economy. The majority of people who work here live locally and where possible we use the expertise of local suppliers. The business supports many local charities and takes on apprentices from the local colleges.
“It’s also a place where memories are made for weddings, celebrations and anniversaries. To have visitors back is therefore great news and will go on to help rebuild after what has been a torrid 18 months.”
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