Salford Quays is now home to the UK’s first AC Hotels by Marriott, a new branch of the well-known hotel provider, aimed at the business and leisure market.
The grand opening on Trafford Road was celebrated with a launch party on Thursday 7 July and included free champagne, a caviar bar and karaoke.
The hotel has undergone an extensive refurbishment programme.
The joint cost of upgrading both this branch and a second AC Hotels by Marriott in Birmingham is around £4 million.
Brian McCarthy, managing director of Valor Hospitality Europe, said: “It is fantastic to be working with Marriott to deliver the very first AC Hotels by Marriott hotels in two of the most celebrated commercial, shopping and cultural destinations in the UK.”
Music for the night was provided by Hacienda legend, DJ Graeme Park, who played Spanish-styled dance music adding to the European theme.
Tony Hudson, Director of Sales, who has been with Marriott for two years, said: “I love it. It has such a family feel to it, which is really important for our guests.
“They need to feel welcome and appreciated and that is what we strive to bring.”
The hotel has also won the prestigious Catey Award – the Oscars of the hospitality business – for ‘Best Employer’.
Each of the 142 rooms in the hotel boasts an interactive TV, Nespresso coffee machine and USB ports in the walls, all in a bid to reduce clutter and keep it looking clean and simple.
The hotel also includes a 24-hour accessible gym, three business rooms which cater for up to 100 people and the AC Library for when guests wish to relax.
Hotels Birmingham and Manchester Salford Quays are two of more than 22 AC hotels expected to open globally this year.
