The four-star Armada Hotel of Spanish Point, Co. Clare, is seeking new employees for a variety of roles as part of a 100-person recruitment drive, which is 50% complete.
Expansion And Renovation Plan
The hotel is currently progressing a €3 million expansion and renovation plan that is scheduled to be completed early next month.
The plan involves the creation of a new 90-seater restaurant, bar, private dining area, and a dedicated space for wedding arrivals.
Statement: Armada Hotel Owner
Armada Hotel owner John Burke, who confirmed that all plans are on track for a 4 February reopening, stated, “After dealing with pre-Christmas challenges caused by restriction changes and issues around staffing due to close COVID contacts, we began the new year facing into our renovation and expansion programme. On day one, we were down to eight staff out of a team of 24, due to COVID. We now have up to 90 people a day on site at different times, and the contractors are constantly making arrangements and juggling schedules based on resources available. It has been very challenging for all, but, despite everything, we are on track and on schedule for phased reopening from the start of February.”
Burke added, “As an industry, we can continue doing the same thing and wonder why we aren’t getting applicants. We can look at or point the finger at the PUP, the impact of restrictions, and more, but here at the Armada, we have chosen to take a proactive approach. We want to attract and retain the best talent within the sector to work and live here in Co. Clare. We’re building a world-class extension to give our guests the most authentic experience of life by the coast. That’s what we have to offer as a career, too – the chance to work in one of Ireland’s most innovative hotels, offering something few other establishments are facilitating: a healthier approach to working hours, pay and conditions that means our team and their families get to truly enjoy life by the sea.”
Burke also said, “We look to 2022 with great optimism. The pandemic has triggered a newfound appreciation for holidaying at home. As an industry, we now have an amazing product, and there is huge pent-up demand for hospitality in the months ahead because people have been unable to celebrate special occasions and enjoy get-togethers for so long, and all indications are that this could be the year to make up for that.”
© 2022 Hospitality Ireland – your source for the latest industry news. Article by Dave Simpson. Click subscribe to sign up for the Hospitality Ireland print edition.
