Hotels in Northern Ireland 'enjoy record year'

A new report claims that Northern Ireland hotels are currently enjoying their most successful year to date.

Northern Ireland's hotel trade is having its most successful year to date, according to new research.

A report by accountancy firm ASM Horwath reveals that demand for hotel rooms in Northern Ireland has reached a peak, with occupancy rates averaging 68.8 per cent in the past year.

This is a three per cent increase over a 12-month period, News Letter reports.

Michael Williamson, author of the report and director of consulting at ASM Horwath, said the hotel sector has achieved "outstanding performance" over the past year.

He added: "The industry has entered a period of rapid growth and change - however, my predictions of future demand for hotel facilities suggests that there is no reason why record levels of performance should not continue for the foreseeable future."

Mr Williamson credited factors such as a strong economy, an improved international image and enhanced air route accessibility for the growth experienced in Northern Ireland's hotel sector.

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