Travelodge boss steps down amid safety overhaul after sexual assault at hotel

Travelodge chief executive Jo Boydell has resigned amid a safety overhaul following a sexual assault at one of the hotel chain's properties. The company claims Boydell left after 13 years with the group and will be replaced on an interim basis by chief financial officer Ray Reidy. The guest of a Travelodge in Maidenhead, Berkshire, was sexually assaulted by an individual who had been provided with a key card to her room.

Kyran Smith was sentenced to seven-and-a-half years in prison in February for the attack that occurred in December 2022. Reidy emphasized the company's commitment to guest safety and wellbeing, stating that they will continue to take necessary actions to strengthen the business and engage proactively with relevant authorities. Travelodge claimed they had swiftly implemented safety measures, including an independent review by Paul Greaney KC and an ongoing internal review, as well as new room access security and additional training for customer-facing staff.

Guest permission is now required for duplicate or replacement room keys, and the company will no longer confirm to third parties if a guest is staying at one of its hotels. The firm is also rolling out a training program to combat violence against women and girls. Trade group UKHospitality is expected to release updated guidelines on guest security for hotels soon, which Travelodge has been collaborating on.

The company's underlying earnings rose slightly to £47.9 million for the six months ending June 30, but profit growth was impacted by significant cost pressures, including rising staff wages.