Travelodge has appointed Steve Bennett as its new property director.
Bennett (pictured) is tasked with helping the hotelier to open 100 new properties across the UK over the next five years.
He joins Travelodge having previously been director of property at Marks & Spencer, overseeing the group’s new store acquisition programme, refit investments, asset management and an international strategic review.
Prior to his time at Marks & Spencer, Bennett also held property director roles with Travis Perkins and Dixons Carphone, as well as new store development roles with Specsavers and the parent company of Superdrug, AS Watson.
Bennett will report directly to Travelodge chief executive Peter Gowers and will be a member of the group operating board.
Gowers said: “We have an ambitious growth strategy and are aiming to open 100 new hotels across the UK over the next five years. Steve’s extensive experience within the UK property sector will be invaluable as we seek new opportunities to expand our network and deliver affordable travel for everyone.”
Bennett added: “There is a huge opportunity to expand the brand into new markets, and I am looking forward to growing the business further with my established team. We would like to have a Travelodge hotel literally 10 minutes from where our customers need to be.”
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