LONDON, Ontario, Feb. 25, 2025 /CNW/ -- The highly anticipated Hard Rock Hotel London, Ontario, is nearing completion and is now accepting reservations. Located within the iconic 100 Kellogg Lane, Hard Rock Hotel London, Ontario, is part of Canada's largest indoor entertainment complex, including The Factory, and sits in the heart of London's vibrant Old East Village. Just minutes from the Western Fair District and a short drive from downtown, the hotel is perfectly positioned in Canada's only UNESCO City of Music, making it a must-visit entertainment destination.

"The debut of Hard Rock Hotel London, Ontario, marks an exciting milestone as we bring our iconic brand to this vibrant city," said John Rees, Senior Vice President of Hotel Operations at Hard Rock International. "Guests can expect the signature Hard Rock vibe, where music, entertainment, and hospitality come together to create something truly special. We look forward to sharing the unmistakable energy that defines Hard Rock Hotels and offers unforgettable experiences for travelers and locals alike."

The newly constructed hotel will feature 164 exquisitely designed guest rooms and specialty suites offering floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the vibrant energy within the complex. Family-style guestrooms feature separate rooms with bunk beds sure to delight all ages, while the signature Rock Star Suite features a plush living area and bar, exclusive music-inspired touches, and high-end amenities like a private kitchenette, perfect for entertaining in your own one-of-a-kind retreat.

"Signing the agreement for the creation of Hard Rock Hotel London, Ontario marked the start of what has proven to be an extraordinary partnership between Dora Hotel Company, Hard Rock International, The Cribbage Group, and the city of London," says Tim Dora, President of Dora Hotel Company. "We are eager to bring to life the unparalleled energy of Hard Rock. There is no doubt this hotel will be a game changer for Canadians and those traveling from around the globe to Ontario for this unforgettable Hard Rock Hotel experience."

Guests and locals will discover innovative culinary and beverage concepts, including GMT-5 bar, Sessions Restaurant & Bar, and a unique speakeasy appropriately named after the year the Kellogg's Factory opened – 1913. The mixologist driven bar will feature cereal infused libations as an ode to the venue's history.

Hard Rock and Dora Hotel Company collaborated with award-winning BBB Architects and Interiors to create a music-infused sensory experience for the guests at this boutique hotel. Upon arrival, a 32-foot-high sculptural metallic guitar, handcrafted in London, Ontario, marks the entrance for a grand porte-cochere, which combines a theatrical light show and surround sound immersive musical experience. The grand lobby combines elements of the historic Kellogg brick building with new stone tile, multiple skylights, and displays of significant musical memorabilia themed to London's history and Canada's contribution to the world music scene.

At Hard Rock Hotel London, Ontario, music is at the heart of every guest experience. The Sound of Your Stay® program invites travelers to connect with music in immersive ways, from streaming expertly curated playlists with Tracks® to spinning classic vinyl on Victrola record players with Wax® or playing a premium guitar delivered to your room with Picks®.

Wellness also finds its rhythm here. The signature Rock Om® program blends yoga with DJ-curated soundtracks for on-demand, in-room sessions that inspire balance and relaxation. Guests seeking a more dynamic workout can visit the Body Rock® Fitness Centre, fully equipped with Technogym equipment and energizing playlists. After an invigorating workout, the indoor/outdoor pool provides the perfect place to recharge, complete with an innovative underwater sound system that keeps the music flowing - even below the surface.

Pets are also part of the experience, with the Unleashed program offering thoughtful amenities for four-legged family members, further positioning Hard Rock Hotel London, Ontario, as a destination for all.

Hard Rock Hotel London, Ontario, is now accepting reservations. For bookings and to follow along for regular updates, please visit https://hotel.hardrock.com/london-ontario-micro.aspx

In response to the U.S. government's pricing threat, Activar Hotels Group, in collaboration with Rouge Marketing agency, is launching a social initiative aimed at promoting local tourism and increasing the visibility of Quebec and Canadian hotels.

Launched on February 6, this campaign, designed as a sharing chain on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, aims to unite the hotel industry in raising awareness among the general public. The message is simple: this year, travel locally and support accommodations from here!

As of February 20, 2025, nine establishments have already joined this large network, namely:
- Microtel Lac-Mégantic
- Microtel Lachute
- Microtel Casselman
- Grand Lodge Mont-Tremblant
- Hôtel Relais Saint-Sulpice
- Auberge des Gallant
- Hôtel Château Laurier
- AX Hôtel Mont-Tremblant
- Auberge Godefroy

A call to Canadian hotel industry stakeholders
All Quebec and Canadian accommodation venues are invited to join this large network by creating a post to promote their region, and then mentioning a new establishment to join the initiative.

Let’s encourage Canadians to travel to local destinations and contribute to the local economy! So, which hotels should be added to the list?

“At Activar Hotels, we believe in the positive impact of local tourism on our national economy. Our country is full of incredible destinations, each more amazing than the last. Now is the time to discover them and support Canadian hotel establishments,” announces Xavier Icardo, Vice President of Hotel Operations.

“We are proud to be a 100% Canadian hotel management company, dedicated to the success of hotels owned by Canadian investors and owners,” adds Mathieu Mault, CEO of Activar Hotels Group.

EAST LONGMEADOW, Mass. – Excel Dryer, Inc., was recently recognized as a double winner in the prestigious 2024 Sustainability Awards, hosted by Business Intelligence Group, which honors organizations worldwide that make sustainability a core part of their business practices.

The D|VERSE Sink System featuring the XLERATORsync® Hand Dryer was recognized as a Sustainability Product of the Year, and Excel Dryer’s Healthy Office Oasis received the Sustainability Initiative of the Year award. Excel’s ThinAir® Hand Dryer with Electrostatic HEPA (eHEPA®) Filtration was also selected as a finalist in the Sustainability Product of the Year category.

“We are thrilled with these recognitions, which are a testament to Excel' s unwavering commitment to the environment,” said Joshua Griffing, director of marketing and international sales for Excel Dryer. “We are dedicated to advancing the industry while ensuring that everything from our workplace to our products reflect our values of sustainability and wellness.”

The D|VERSE Sink System featuring the XLERATORsync Hand Dryer with eHEPA is a collaboration between commercial product designer D|13 Group and Excel Dryer. Integrating the elements of proper hand washing and drying in a cohesive 30" unit, it introduces a new level of hygiene, sustainability and aesthetic appeal that instantly transforms any commercial restroom.

Excel Dryer’s energy-efficient, sustainable and comfortable office expansion at its LEED-certified headquarters was guided by the WELL Building Standard® and rooted in the company's mission to lead through innovation. It incorporates beauty, health, wellness and sustainability—from a reception desk that limits the introduction of air pollutants to carpet fibers made from recycled fishing nets.

"Forget greenwashing—Excel Dryer puts sustainability at the heart of everything it does," said Russ Fordyce, CEO, Business Intelligence Group. "We're inspired by their dedication and excited to showcase the incredible work they're accomplishing."

Feb 17th, 2025 — Horwath HTL is pleased to welcome Jason Raimondi as the newest member of our team.

With over 20 years of hospitality leadership, training, and operational consulting experience, Jason brings a wealth of expertise in strategic development, service excellence, and leadership coaching.

Prior to joining Horwath HTL, Jason founded JOR Hospitality Solutions, a consulting firm specializing in hospitality strategy, operational change, and leadership development.

His extensive career includes executive training roles at Forbes Travel Guide, as well as leadership positions at IHG, Hilton, and The Walt Disney Company. Throughout his career, Jason has worked with some of the world’s most renowned hotel brands, helping them enhance guest service, refine operational efficiencies, and cultivate strong leadership teams.
Jason holds a Master of Arts in Management & Leadership from Webster University and has played a key role in developing training programs that drive measurable success in the hospitality industry.

His expertise in emotional intelligence, luxury service training, and strategic hospitality consulting will be instrumental in strengthening Horwath HTL’s service offerings worldwide.

John Fareed, Horwath HTL Global Chairman, expressed enthusiasm about the appointment:
"We are thrilled to have Jason join our team. His deep understanding of hospitality operations and his passion for leadership development align perfectly with our commitment to providing industry-leading advisory services.

We look forward to the impact he will make for our clients and partners around the world."