IOC President, Jacques Rogge applauded British hospitality in his speech at the closing Olympic Games ceremony last night, rounding off a fortnight in which the country’s welcome has been a major talking point of athletes and visitors.
“Britain’s hospitality industry has done itself proud and the Olympic Games have shown off Britain as a feel good destination that will be a lasting legacy to the UK economy,” says Ufi Ibrahim, chief executive.
“The 2.4m people who work in hospitality have been the greatest-ever ambassadors for Britain.”
“We must now harness this success and the worldwide visibility that the Games have given us to spread the message that the UK is very much open for business and has a fabulous welcome to offer everyone this year, and in the future.”
Ms Ibrahim said that BHA members had done much to make the Games such a success, singling out Holiday Inn and McDonald’s as two of the main sponsors, with Sodexo and BaxterStorey providing extensive catering facilities.
“Providing over 16m meals during the Games was a major undertaking and the British hospitality industry rose to the challenge magnificently,” she said.
She urged the industry and the government to build on the success of the Games to create a sustainable legacy for young people in Britain.
“BHA pledges to work with government to realise the huge opportunities that Britain’s hospitality industry offers young people and future generations.
“In particular, it offers a magnificent career for the many volunteers who showed such an aptitude for hosting members of the public during the Games.”
For further information:
Ufi Ibrahim
Chief executive
020 7404 7744
Miles Quest
Wordsmith and Company
01753 645636
mq@wordsmith-and-co.demon.co,uk
