The visionary behind two luxury Inverness hotels has been recognised amongst some of the UK’s top hoteliers as he is named as an ‘Industry Titan’.
Tony Story, CEO of Kingsmills Group, was revealed as part of this year’s Boutique Hotelier ‘Power List’ at an event in London, celebrating the UK hotel industry’s most exciting teams and individuals.
Having worked in the hospitality and tourism industry for over 40 years and continuing today with the same drive, energy, and passion, Tony’s vision is to deliver an outstanding guest experience with a large emphasis on their Highland cultural experience.
Recognising that the city had the potential to be a world leading destination but lacked a 5-star offering, and as a consequence, 5 star international visitors, in 2019 Tony opened the 5-star Ness Walk Hotel on the banks of the River Ness. This widened the audience for Inverness and created demand from new markets to visit the city. This not only benefits the Kingsmills Hotel Group, but also the restaurants, shops and attractions in the city who now welcome higher spend guests.
Through Tony’s vision for a luxury offering in the city, the Kingsmills Hotel and Ness Walk have gone on to earn an enviable reputation internationally, win awards and year on year see the international markets, and the Highland reputation grow.
Speaking of the announcement, Tony says, “I am so very grateful and honoured to be amongst such incredible leaders from across our industry. This recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of the dedicated teams at the Kingsmills Hotel and Ness Walk, as well as the vibrant community that makes the Highlands and Islands a truly special place.”
Eamonn Crowe, Editor at Boutique Hotelier adds, “the level of innovation and resilience evident in the industry is truly remarkable – and something that is certainly worthy of celebration.”
Beyond the operations of the hotel, Tony spearheads much of the Kingsmills Group’s fundraising initiatives and holds a passion for supporting the local community through nominated local charities.
To date, the hotel has raised over £630,000 for three chosen charity partners; Highland Hospice, Mikeysline and SNAP and with three significant fundraisers planned including the return of the Sunflower Ball in aid of the Highland Hospice, this total is set to surpass £750,000 by the end of the year.
Previously featured names in the annual ‘Power List’ include James Thomson OBE of Prestonfield House & The Witchery, Kim Murray of Cromlix and Kalindi Juneja, CEO of PoB Hotels Collection.