A new chapter for the Grand Dame of Cork.
The Louis Fitzgerald Group, one of the largest family-run hospitality groups in the country, has announced that its acquisition of the iconic 4-star Imperial Hotel in Cork City is now complete.
The family business, headed by Louis Fitzgerald and now in its 54th year, has a longstanding track record of acquiring landmark properties, so the timeless 200-year-old Imperial Hotel is the perfect addition to their impressive portfolio. The Group includes the Arlington Hotel, Louis Fitzgerald Hotel and Joels Restaurant, An Poitin Stil, The Stag’s Head, Kehoes Pub, The Quays Bar Galway and most recently, Murphy’s Bar in Galway.
Staff and locals alike welcome that the hotel will move from one Irish owned family business to another, bucking the trend of international investments, and that the family places great emphasis on ensuring the legacy, history and character of their hotels, pubs and bars are carried forward for future generations to enjoy.
Commenting on the purchase, Louis Fitzgerald said, ‘We have been an admirer of the Imperial Hotel for some time. The Hotel has an incredible history and has built a fantastic reputation as one of the country’s most luxurious and boutique city hotels to stay in. This is a credit to the team in place there, and we look forward to working with them to continue to innovate.
After successfully navigating the organisation through the pandemic, the Fitzgerald family are positively looking forward to continued growth and development over the coming years.
The Imperial boasts a rich history and has welcomed high profile names over the past 200 years including actress Grace Kelly, Prince Rainier of Monaco, Michael Collins, and many others. With 131 guest rooms, multiple dining options, and conference facilities, the hotel is a popular choice for both leisure and business travellers.
The acquisition comes on the back of major investment, renovations, a new food offering, a new strategic direction and a myriad of awards over the past three years.
The new ownership has assured employees that their jobs are safe and they are committed to investing in the continued development of staff skills and expertise. The Louis Fitzgerald Group has also assured guests that all vouchers will continue to be honoured.