MKB Law

An afternoon at The Merchant Hotel that brought together Northern Ireland's leading professionals from the hospitality sector – from the first details to the lasting conversations – faithfully captured below.

𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐈𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐃𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐎𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐦 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐈𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐇𝐨𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 A range of industry professionals gathered at The Merchant Hotel for a discussion on the hospitality landscape, hosted by MKB Law. In his opening remarks, Gordon McElroy highlighted collaboration between developers, planners, financiers and operators as key to delivering successful projects across the region. Moderator Joris Minne, food columnist for the Belfast Telegraph, also noted the continued role of the media in shaping policy discussions around the hospitality sector. On the first panel, Gerardo Larios Rizo of Bank of Ireland struck an optimistic tone on the sector's outlook, pointing to sustained demand despite cost pressures and evolving consumer preferences, including growth in non-alcoholic options and accommodation-led stays. Phil Ervine of Taste & Tour emphasised the region's reputation as a visitor experience destination, highlighting how Belfast's story – its transformation and future direction – is reflected in its hospitality offering. Conall Wolsey of Beannchor Group pointed to the success of hospitality-led regeneration, with a strong emphasis on attention to detail, quality and consistency in building long-term hospitality brands. The second panel focused on licensing and planning frameworks. Emma Smyth of MKB Law outlined the legal work involved in hospitality development, referencing some of her current projects in both the city centre and popular tourist areas such as Portstewart. Diana Thompson of MBA Planning discussed how mixed-use hospitality developments are shaping town and city centre regeneration in response to changing consumer demand – referencing Lidl's Dundonald pub scheme, which has even drawn international attention! Hospitality Ulster chief executive Colin Neill MBE emphasised Northern Ireland's unique hospitality offering and the importance of maintaining a robust independent operator base in a challenging cost environment. Gavin Weir of Avison Young outlined a two-tier market, with strong performance in prime Belfast assets but continued pressure on mid-market pubs and regional hotels. He noted margin compression and reduced buyer demand as costs rise, with more creative deal structures emerging. The discussion remained broadly optimistic, with speakers pointing to resilient demand, Belfast's growing international profile, and the continued importance of hospitality in driving regeneration and economic activity across towns and rural communities. Northern Ireland's hospitality offering was highlighted for its quality, authenticity and strong sense of local identity. [Image gallery from the event below]

On Friday, we hosted 'Inside the Business of Hospitality' at The Merchant Hotel Belfast, bringing together key players and experts to look at the industry through a wider lens. Chaired by Joris Minne and featuring our Directors Gordon McElroy and Emma Smyth, two panel discussions covered everything from licensing and investment to planning and tourism. What really stood out was the connections made – seeing a unique mix of peers come together to explore the challenges and opportunities shaping the sector right now. Thank you to everyone who joined us – more photos to follow soon!

We're putting the final touches to something exciting happening this week at MKB Law. As always – our branding is doing what it does best!

In our latest podcast episode, we discuss residential property – where every transaction follows its own path. A closer look at our solicitor-led approach to conveyancing at MKB Law: bit.ly/MKB-Podcast34 (or listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts). Cathy Forsythe | Katrina Olver | Caitlin Mulholland

Conveyancing is usually described in steps and timelines. That's not always how it works in practice. In a slightly different episode of the MKB LawCast, our residential property solicitors - Caitlin Mulholland, Katrina Olver and Cathy Forsythe - join Neil Logan for a chat about the day-to-day reality of conveyancing and how we approach it at MKB Law. 🎧 Listen here: bit.ly/MKB-Podcast34 or search 'MKB Law' on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Another milestone for Kerr's Tyres Group! Our Corporate team recently assisted Kerr's Tyres Group on its acquisition of Bangor-based Wells Tyres. With both businesses being established, family-run operations, Wells Tyres was the ideal strategic fit for the group. We are pleased to have supported the team at Kerr’s Tyres on another milestone transaction as they continue to deliver on their ambitious growth strategy across the UK and Ireland, with the backing of Chiltern Capital. Thanks to all involved in this transaction. James Boyd | Christopher Teague | Matthew McGuigan

Yesterday saw the return of the NI Chamber Momentum Conference to the Great Hall at Galgorm Resort, under this year's theme 'Thinking Globally'. MKB Law Director David McAlinden attended the event, which featured contributions from a range of speakers, notably Peter Foster, World Trade Editor at the Financial Times, and Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA, Economy Minister. David described it as another informative event and good also to reconnect with contacts, including Colin McCabrey and the InterTradeIreland team.

Big news for the North Coast hospitality scene! 🌊 MKB Law recently assisted our client on the acquisition of the popular Anchor Complex in Portstewart. This venue has been part of the local landscape since 1898 and remains a go-to destination for locals, students and tourists. Our client's expertise in the local hospitality sector makes them the perfect stewards for The Anchor's future! Thanks to all involved in this transaction. Emma Smyth | Matthew McGuigan | Neil Logan

Next Door is the new sister restaurant to Noble, located just off the high street in Holywood, Co. Down.   MKB Law previously assisted owners Saul McConnell and Pearson Morris with Noble - a Bib Gourmand restaurant that opened in 2016 and has been consistently recognised in leading food guides and awards.   Their latest venture, located right next door, offers a casual Italian dining experience under the concept of Pasta Bar and Vino. MKB Director Emma Smyth was pleased to be involved with this new project, which further strengthens Saul and Pearson's hospitality portfolio.