'Right brands to the right locations': Global hospitality company grows Northern Ireland footprint with landmark hotel projects
Hilton adds new DoubleTree signings in Belfast and Londonderry as it prepares to launch the first Tempo by Hilton outside the US in Northern Ireland
Hilton is accelerating its expansion across Northern Ireland with a series of new hotel signings and brand debuts as part of its wider growth strategy across the island of Ireland.
The global hospitality group said it is strengthening its presence in the region through several landmark projects, including the signing of DoubleTree by Hilton Belfast City Ten Square and DoubleTree by Hilton Derry-Londonderry, while preparing to introduce another of its brands to Belfast.
The expansion follows a period of sustained investment by Hilton in Ireland, where the company now operates eight hotels across six brands, with further openings expected to create more than 150 jobs and increase its Irish workforce to almost 1,000.
Among the most significant Northern Ireland developments is the planned opening of Tempo by Hilton Belfast City Centre, which is expected to become the first Tempo by Hilton hotel outside the United States. The 144-room lifestyle hotel will introduce Hilton's wellness-focused brand to international markets for the first time, marking a major milestone in the company's global expansion strategy.
Hilton also recently marked the first anniversary of The Marcus Portrush, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, which opened last year as the first Tapestry Collection property in Northern Ireland.
The latest announcements come as Hilton unveiled plans to expand further across the Republic of Ireland, including bringing the DoubleTree by Hilton brand to the market for the first time through the conversion of a 156-room hotel in Ashbourne, Co Meath.
The company has also opened Home2 Suites by Hilton Dublin City Centre, marking the European debut of its extended-stay brand, while signing Cork City Centre, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, which is due to open in 2027.
Paul Blackmore, vice president of development for the UK and Ireland at Hilton, said Ireland remained an attractive market for the business.
"Ireland's enduring appeal makes it an attractive market for Hilton, with strong demand in cities and across the regions," he said.
"The opening of Home2 Suites, alongside new signings including DoubleTree by Hilton Ashbourne, and continued expansion of brands such as Tapestry Collection by Hilton, underlines our confidence in the country.
"We remain focused on expanding our footprint and working with owners and partners to bring the right brands to the right locations while supporting tourism and long-term investment."
Hilton's latest investments further strengthen its presence in Northern Ireland's tourism and hospitality sector, with Belfast, Londonderry and Portrush all set to play a key role in the company's continued growth across the island.