FBD hotel group acquires the Grand Hotel in Dublin's Malahide

The Grand Hotel in Malahide has been acquired by the FBD Group for €55m.

FBD's hotel subsidiary has reached an agreement to acquire the Grand Hotel in Malahide, Co Dublin, for €55m.

Its addition to the chain will bring to seven the number of hotels and resorts FBD Hotels and Resorts (FBDH&R) operates across Ireland and Spain.

The Grand Hotel, which employs more than 200 people, dates back to 1835 and has been in the ownership of the seller, the Ryan family, since 1974. It is a popular conference and wedding venue located close to Dublin Airport.

The agreement, subject to approval by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC), will bring the total number of hotel rooms in FBDH&R to 1,387.

FBDH&R, part of farmer-owned investment company, Farmer Business Developments Plc, employs 1,705 people in Ireland and Spain. It currently owns and operates four hotels in Ireland — Faithlegg Hotel, Waterford; the Heritage Hotel and Spa, Laois; Castleknock Hotel, Dublin; and Killashee Hotel, Kildare. 

It also owns and operates two resorts near Malaga on the Costa del Sol, Spain — the Sunset Beach Club, Benalmádena, and the La Cala Resort, Mijas. The company also has an extensive landbank in La Cala, comprising three golf courses and a range of residential properties, developed in partnership with international construction company, Taylor Wimpey.

FBDH&R plans to invest in upgrading the Grand Hotel over the coming period. This will include upgrades to the hotel’s 202 rooms, bar and dining facilities, conference, wedding and leisure offerings, as well as IT infrastructure, marketing and professional development.

Chief Executive, David Kelly, said they were delighted to have reached an agreement with the Ryan family. "The Grand Hotel in Malahide is an iconic hotel located in one of Ireland’s most unique settings. We are honoured to be entrusted with the stewardship of this historic hotel, whose rich heritage and enduring legacy have made it a symbol of excellence in hospitality."