Travelodge is set to introduce antisemitism awareness training for staff across its hotels following an incident in which two visibly Jewish guests found the message "Free Palestine" displayed on the TV screens in their rooms.
Earlier this month, the two men were checking into the hotel chain's Manor House branch in north London when they discovered the message. One of the guests also alleged that he was met with hostility from a member of staff at the front desk.
Travelodge's chief executive, Jo Boydell, subsequently described the incident as "antisemitic", confirming that it had been reported to police and that an urgent internal investigation had been launched.
Now, the hotel chain has told the JC that the investigation is nearing completion but has been unable to identify the person responsible for placing the message on the television.
The company also confirmed it is in discussions with the Antisemitism Policy Trust about introducing antisemitism and cultural sensitivity training for staff.
A Travelodge spokesperson said: “We have treated this incident very seriously from the outset as there is no place for antisemitism in this country and we took action immediately to address this.
“We are now very close to concluding a robust internal investigation, but unfortunately, it has not been possible to determine exactly how or when the message was put on this individual TV. However, our internal focus on our policy of zero tolerance to discrimination, including antisemitism, will continue, and we are currently in discussions with a leading organisation in the Jewish community to facilitate an appropriate training programme on cultural sensitivity and antisemitism.”
Travelodge Manor House (Credit: Google Maps)[Missing Credit]
The spokesperson added: “Our CEO has spoken with the guest to express our apologies for their experience. We have also been engaging closely with leaders and groups within the Jewish community to reiterate our absolute zero-tolerance stance on antisemitism and any form of discrimination and our commitment to ensuring that the Jewish community feels safe and welcome at all of our hotels.”
To get more news, click here to sign up for our free daily newsletter.
