Calls for Further Collaboration Between Industry and Government to Ensure Sustainable Growth
ACCORDING to a survey produced and released by Belfast-based accountancy firm, Sumer Northern Ireland, the local hotel sector is performing strongly despite navigating numerous challenges.
Now in its 25th year, Sumer Northern Ireland’s Annual Hotel Survey has revealed that hotels across the region recorded an average bedroom occupancy rate of 69.6% in 2024. The average room rate in four-and five-star hotels was the highest on record at £134.75, however the rooms revenue per available room (RevPAR) fell from the 2023 high of £96.30 to £93.81. Bedroom occupancy rates of Belfast hotels also performed better than those in more rural locations, which totalled 59.6% compared with 74.8% in the capital.
Additionally, the Annual Hotel Survey highlighted that EBITDA revenue ratio is at its highest over the last two years at 26.5%, although overall profit has fallen by 9% against a backdrop of rising costs.
“Overall, Northern Ireland’s hotel sector is performing well and is showing great levels of buoyancy,” explained Adrian Patton, Partner at Sumer Northern Ireland. “Bedroom occupancy rates remain strong which is promising, despite the fall in profitability.
“It’s well known that the hotel and wider hospitality industry has faced huge challenges over the last few years alongside the attraction and retention of talented staff. The changes announced in last year’s UK Budget that saw increases in the National Living Wage and National Insurance Contributions has proved challenging for many businesses, not least of all those in the hospitality sector. These developments, alongside increasing supply chain costs, have all contributed to a decrease in profitability across the board.
“On balance, the report portrays a resilient sector but it’s important that policy makers continue to support hoteliers in mitigating rising costs so that Northern Ireland can continue to be a key player in the global and domestic tourism market.”
The release of the Annual Hotel Survey also comes at a time of growing optimism with ongoing investment in several new hotel developments and the refurbishment of existing premises across the province, reflecting rising confidence in long-term demand.
Connectivity across the island of Ireland is also set to improve with the Irish government’s recent decision to progress legislation aimed at removing the passenger cap at Dublin Airport, the planned re-introduction of flights between Dublin and Derry / Londonderry and increased train services between Belfast and Dublin after a multi-million-pound investment saw an hourly Enterprise service begin in November last year.
Reflecting on the survey’s results, Dr Joanne Stuart OBE, CEO of the NI Tourism Alliance, stated that greater collaboration between industry and government was essential to ensure sustainable future growth.
“The findings of this year’s report highlight the dedication and adaptability of Northern Ireland’s hotel sector amid increasing overheads,” Joanne said.
“Northern Ireland has played host to a number of global events over recent years, which is showing no signs of slowing down in 2026. This, coupled with efforts to increase connectivity means that collaboration between government and industry has never been more important when it comes to making the most of the opportunities ahead.
“Challenges will remain, but there is real momentum building within the industry. It’s imperative that we work together to create the right policy and infrastructure environment, where we can further support growth, attract more visitors to our shores and ensure that Northern Ireland continues to be a exceptional place to visit.”
For more information on Sumer Northern Ireland, visit the website: www.sumerni.co.uk.
