It’s not often that footballers go on to have successful careers outside football management or commentary, but the plans announced in recent days by Manchester United stars Gary Neville and Ryan Giggs look much more promising than most.
Of course, since his retirement from playing football, Neville has impressed many commentators with his intelligence and communication skills – displayed to notable effect at last year’s AHC Conference in Manchester.
And his plans have been announced and developed long since for Hotel Football close to Manchester United’s Old Trafford Stadium – though apparently not pleasing Manchester United, who no doubt feel they should have built it themselves!
Whilst teaming up with Ryan Giggs will provide useful publicity and funds, the most impressive aspect of the plans for GG Hospitality is the management team they have assembled, which is reported to include:
- Stuart Procter, Managing Director – the former general manager of the Stafford Hotel in London
- Michael Wignall, head chef of the two-Michelin-starred Latymer restaurant at Pennyhill Park. Will oversee the food and beverage concepts
- Stewart Davies, is general manager of the Doubletree by Hilton Manchester, and will become GM of the 139-bedroom Hotel Football Manchester
Hotel Football
In addition to Manchester, the intention is to open Hotel Football in cities with a strong football culture, which could certainly include European destinations, not just UK. Aiming at the three to four star market, it is understood that franchise and management opportunities are being explored.
Café Football
Opening in Westfield Stratford in London this autumn, and aiming to provide casual dining, this will be another development that is watched closely by the industry. It seems astonishing that GG Hospitality have managed to secure such an obviously attractive brand name – again, no doubt others are reflecting on the missed opportunity.
Finance
With the substantial wealth of Neville and Giggs backing the venture, minor backing from friends and footballers, the company has also shrewdly attracted investment from Singapore – as well as adding to its board the experience of two businessmen from Singapore with both real estate and food and beverage experience. The ‘team’ therefore looks well set to set about delivering its ambitions.
GG Hospitality will be watched closely by the hospitality industry – as well as the sports and leisure industries!