A rising tide lifts all boats … and fills hotels

The rise of Dalata has mirrored the Irish recovery, writes Ian Kehoe

The 9% Vat rate has helped the hotel sector Pic: Getty

Earlier this month, thehotelier Pat McCann enjoyed tea and sandwiches with many of his colleagues to celebrate the 10th birthday of Dalata. To many companies, this might seem like an understated, old-fashioned party. It lacked the pyrotechnics or the glitz of many corporate bashes.

But it summed up Dalata perfectly – no fuss, very little fanfare. It just goes about its business in a successful manner.

From a standing start 10 years back, ...