FBD Hotels & Resorts officially takes over Malahide hotel
Grand Hotel, Malahide ('The Grand') in Co. Dublin has officially become the seventh property within the FBD Hotels & Resorts portfolio.
The takeover was marked by a photocall with David Kelly, CEO of FBD Hotels & Resorts and Karine Kavanagh, general manager, The Grand together with members of the staff at the hotel today, Thursday, March 6, 2025.
FBD Hotels & Resorts recently acquired the property for €55 million from the Ryan Family, the owners since 1974.
The Grand joins the group’s portfolio of four-star hotels and resorts including Faithlegg, Waterford; The Heritage, Laois; Castleknock Hotel, Dublin; and Killashee Hotel, Kildare.
It also owns and operates two resorts near Malaga on the Costa del Sol, Spain - Sunset Beach Club, Benalmadena, and La Cala Resort, Mijas.
The Grand employs over 200 people bringing the total number of employees within the farmer-owned business to 1,905 people and the total number of hotel rooms to 1,387.
Standing in the heart of the picturesque coastal village of Malahide, The Grand has been embedded in the fabric of the local community for the past 190 years.
Primely positioned close to Dublin Airport, the hotel with its sea views over the estuary is a destination location for both leisure and corporate guests.
With 202 bedrooms, The Grand also houses the Arena Health and Fitness Club with 21m swimming pool, jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, and state-of-the-art gymnasium.
As with previous acquisitions, FBD Hotels & Resorts said it plans to invest €5 million into upgrading The Grand over the next three years.
Initially the focus will be on the refurbishment of the lobby, ground floor areas and 40 bedrooms along with branding, marketing, I.T infrastructure and professional development.
This will extend to upgrades to the bar and dining facilities, conference, wedding and leisure offerings in time.
Commenting David Kelly said: “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.
"The Ryan family and 200 strong team at The Grand have done an excellent job in preserving the timeless charm and traditions that have made it a venue of choice for many over the decades.
"Our team has a proven track record in welcoming new colleagues and investing in opportunities for growth. Underpinned by a strong balance sheet, innovative team, and forward focused ownership, we look forward to further adding to The Grand as a treasured destination in the years ahead.”
General manager, The Grand, Karine Kavanagh added: “This marks an exciting new chapter for the hotel, offering new opportunities to be embraced by our customers and staff alike.
"The team at FBD Hotels & Resorts have transformed other historic hotels with sensitivity enhancing their original charm in a contemporary and sensitive manner."
FBD Hotels & Resorts is part of farmer-owned investment company, Farmer Business Developments Plc.
