Blog. Spotlight on: Apex Hotels

Why have you chosen Hospitality Action as your Charity of the Year for the second year running?

We chose to continue supporting Hospitality Action as our Charity of the Year because their mission aligns closely with our values and the people who make our industry thrive. Over the past year, we have seen the impact of their work, from mental health support to financial assistance and how their crisis grants can make a huge difference to others, which has been truly inspiring.

Hospitality is built on people, and Hospitality Action is there for them when they need it most. Our team felt a strong connection to their cause, and the response to last year’s fundraising efforts was overwhelmingly positive. Continuing our support allows us to build on that momentum and make an even greater difference together.

In what ways does volunteering for Hospitality Action have a positive impact on your team?

Volunteering has brought our team closer together and deepened our connection to the wider hospitality community. Events like Walk for Wellbeing in our cities have given colleagues the chance to bond outside of the workplace, creating shared experiences that boost morale and foster camaraderie.

Initiatives like Golden Friends, offer a meaningful way to give back to those who’ve dedicated their lives to hospitality. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that a simple gesture can brighten someone’s day. 

These experiences remind us why we love this industry! It is about people, care, and community. Hospitality Action embodies all of that and supporting them reinforces our pride in the sector and our role within it.

How have you been raising funds for Hospitality Action?

We have embraced a variety of creative, team-led initiatives to raise funds and awareness for Hospitality Action. Highlights include:

• Apex Annual Bowling Tournament: Held each November, this event brings together over 40 teams from across Scotland and England. It’s competitive, fun, and impactful, with £5 from each player going directly to our charity partners.

• Bake Sales: A firm favourite across all our locations, these delicious events raise thousands of pounds each year and bring smiles to both our teams and guests.

• Advent Calendar Raffle: In the lead-up to Christmas, colleagues enter to win prizes worth over £100, from gift sets and hampers to overnight stays. It is a festive way to give back and share joy.

• Invisible Chips: Featured on our menus, this clever initiative allows guests to donate to Hospitality Action while enjoying a guilt-free, calorie-free side dish, all for a good cause.

Why did you decide to sign up to Hospitality Action's Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)?

We signed up to Hospitality Action’s EAP because we wanted to ensure our team had access to professional, confidential support whenever they needed it. Hospitality is a rewarding industry, but it also comes with unique pressures and challenges. 

By partnering with Hospitality Action, we’re providing our people with a safety net, whether they need counselling, legal advice, financial guidance, or help with personal issues. The EAP is available 24/7 and is a proactive step toward building a healthier, more resilient workforce. It offers that clear message to our teams that their wellbeing matters.

What would you say to other businesses thinking about supporting Hospitality Action?

If you are considering supporting Hospitality Action, the answer is an easy one and don’t second guess, just do it! Hospitality Action is not just a charity it is a lifeline for the people who make our industry what it is. From chefs and housekeepers to front-of-house teams and retirees, Hospitality Action is there when times get tough.

Supporting them is more than giving back, it’s an investment in the wellbeing and resilience of our sector. The impact is real, and the opportunities to get involved are varied and rewarding. Whether through fundraising or volunteering, there is something for every team member to connect with.

The sense of pride and purpose it brings to your team culture is invaluable. You will strengthen your team, build community, and make a meaningful difference.