Hilton bullish on UK conference prospects

HILTON Hotels is expecting demand for conference facilities in the UK to remain strong despite the strength of the pound and an economic downturn.

Business from conference facilities accounts for 18% of Hilton's turnover in the UK.

The group, owned by Ladbroke, has this month completed its £4.5m refurbishment programme to update and standardise conference facilities in its London and provincial hotels.

"Conference business remains very strong, particularly in London," said Ursuline Edwards-Sutton, director of conference and business travel.

She said she could not foresee a drop in business or in rates over the next year.

At the London Hilton in Park Lane, where £500,000 was spent improving facilities, a further six conference rooms are to be added next year. Improvements have included updating technology, a working room with PCs and laptop points for guests and delegates, and additional staff training.