Visit London has appointed Travelodge CEO, Grant Hearn, to its Board.

Travelodge is the UK’s fastest growing hotel company and the appointment of Mr Hearn strengthens the sector representation found on the Visit London Board.

 

Visit London Chief Executive James Bidwell said:

“London is the number one city destination for international travel with 2007 and 2008 on track to be record years for overseas visitors to the capital. This is driving the London hotels sector which is now experiencing its strongest performance levels since the late 1990s. I am delighted with Grant’s appointment - he brings a wealth of experience from the UK hotels sector to the Visit London Board. Grant’s entrepreneurial flair, business acumen and deep industry knowledge will further strengthen our Board as we make a further step change in the build up to London 2012.”

 

Travelodge CEO Grant Hearn said:

“I am very excited about joining what is by far and away the most effective tourism body in the UK. How we position and drive the London offer now and beyond the 2012 Olympics is key to the long term success of this country’s tourism offer. Visit London has injected innovation, pace and a commercial focus that is transforming London’s reputation. I hope that I can add to the Board’s strong complement of skills to extend its influence even further.”

 

The lead up to the Beijing 2008 Olympic and Paralympic Games and handover to London will be a major focus for Visit London this year. The China in London festival commences next month and will culminate with Beijing Olympic Torch Relay across London on 6 April.

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