Jerk Junction to Open First Shopping Centre Location at Trafford Centre

Jerk Junction to Open First Shopping Centre Location at Trafford Centre

By Nishang Narayan

Published on August 7, 2024

Trafford Centre is thrilled to announce the opening of Jerk Junction, Manchester's beloved Caribbean street food brand, this September. Renowned for its authentic and flavourful Caribbean cuisine, Jerk Junction will occupy a 917 sq ft space in The Orient, located next to HOP Vietnamese.

Born in Chorlton, the new eatery marks Jerk Junction’s first venture into a shopping centre setting, bringing a vibrant taste of the Caribbean to Trafford Centre’s diverse culinary landscape. The menu will feature signature dishes such as jerk chicken, curried goat, and vegetarian options like Ital stew, all served with rice and peas and prepared with traditional spices and ingredients that have made Jerk Junction so popular.

Jerk Junction’s expansion into Trafford Centre underscores the growing demand for diverse and high-quality dining options within the retail sector. As consumer preferences evolve, shopping centres like Trafford Centre are transforming into vibrant lifestyle destinations, offering more than just retail experiences.

Russell Loveland, Managing Director, Pradera Lateral – Trafford Centre’s Asset Managers, commented: “Jerk Junction’s arrival not only enhances our food offering but also highlights our commitment to supporting local businesses. Their unique and authentic Caribbean flavours will undoubtedly be a major draw for both our existing visitors and new customers.”

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Jerk Junction Founder Jake Shaffi added: “The Trafford Centre is iconic, especially its food court, but there’s a huge gap for authentic Jamaican food, so we are super proud to be a homegrown brand that can really bring that heat and represent the island! Opening at the Trafford Centre is a huge achievement for us, the fact that we will be positioned next to so many global brands, it really sets the tone for the levels we are taking Jerk Junction to. We cannot wait to reach new customers and continue our mission to make authentic Jamaican food more accessible in the UK.”

Trafford Centre continues to enhance its portfolio of dining options, providing visitors with a variety of cuisines that cater to all tastes and preferences. Jerk Junction’s presence is expected to attract a diverse clientele, further solidifying the centre’s reputation as a premier destination for both shopping and dining.


Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty Appoints Saurav Datta as Director of Sales & Marketing

Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty Appoints Saurav Datta as Director of Sales & Marketing

By Hariharan U

Published on May 8, 2026

Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty has announced the appointment of Saurav Datta as Director of Sales & Marketing, strengthening the hotel’s leadership team as it continues to expand its market presence.

Bringing over 23 years of experience across luxury and upper-upscale hospitality brands, Saurav combines operational expertise with strong commercial acumen. His professional journey includes more than a decade in hotel operations, followed by 13 years in sales and marketing leadership roles.

Saurav began his Hyatt journey at Grand Hyatt Mumbai in 2004 within Food & Beverage operations before transitioning into sales and marketing. Over the years, he has held leadership roles across prominent hospitality brands including Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, Le Méridien Hyderabad, and Le Méridien Nagpur, contributing to revenue growth and market expansion initiatives.

He rejoined Hyatt in 2023 at Hyatt Regency Chennai, where he played a significant role in shaping commercial strategy while also supporting Hyatt Pune as Acting General Manager.

In his new role at Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty, Saurav will lead the hotel’s sales and marketing strategy with a focus on driving revenue growth across key segments and strengthening the property’s positioning within the competitive luxury hospitality landscape.

Speaking on his appointment, Saurav Datta said, “I look forward to working with the team to further strengthen the hotel’s market presence while delivering meaningful guest experiences that define the Grand Hyatt brand.”

Known for his collaborative leadership style and strategic approach, Saurav has consistently delivered strong business performance while building high-performing teams across multiple hospitality markets.

His appointment reflects Hyatt’s continued focus on strengthening leadership capabilities and driving long-term growth across key destinations in India.


Hyatt Regency Pune Appoints Ray Jonathan Dopaishi as Director of Finance

Hyatt Regency Pune Appoints Ray Jonathan Dopaishi as Director of Finance

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 8, 2026

Hyatt Regency Pune has welcomed Ray Jonathan Dopaishi as its new Director of Finance. With more than 16 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Ray brings strong expertise in financial strategy, compliance, operational excellence, and business performance.

Over the course of his career, he has worked with globally recognised hospitality brands including Hyatt, Marriott, Hilton, and Accor. Known for his focused and results-driven approach, Ray has built a reputation for maintaining high standards in financial management while supporting long-term business growth.

He also brings valuable experience in improving operational processes, strengthening financial controls, and developing high-performing teams. His leadership style is aligned with Hyatt’s values and vision, further supporting the hotel’s commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for both guests and colleagues.

At Hyatt Regency Pune, Ray will lead the finance function with a focus on enhancing financial performance, ensuring compliance, and contributing to the property’s continued growth journey.

The hotel management believes his industry expertise and strategic approach will play an important role in strengthening operational efficiency and supporting the brand’s future goals.


Novotel Vijayawada Varun Promotes Mohammed Akhil as Operations Manager

Novotel Vijayawada Varun Promotes Mohammed Akhil as Operations Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 8, 2026

Novotel Vijayawada Varun has announced the promotion of Mohammed Akhil as the hotel’s new Operations Manager. Akhil has been associated with the property for several years and most recently served as Director of Sales & Marketing, where he played an important role in strengthening the hotel’s market presence, driving revenue growth, and building strategic partnerships.

With over 19 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Akhil brings expertise across operations, sales, and marketing. Over the years, he has worked with leading hospitality brands and was also a part of the pre-opening team at Novotel Vijayawada Varun, contributing to the successful launch of the property.

In addition to his professional experience, he has completed industrial training focused on quality and hospitality operations, further strengthening his operational understanding.

Commenting on the promotion, Manish Pathak, Hotel Manager, Novotel Vijayawada Varun, said, “Mohammed Akhil’s journey with Novotel Vijayawada Varun has been defined by consistency, commitment and a strong understanding of both business and guest expectations. His contributions over the years have been invaluable. I wish him all the best for his new role as Operations Manager.”

In his new position, Akhil will oversee the hotel’s day-to-day operations with a focus on operational efficiency, guest satisfaction, compliance, and service excellence. He will also work closely with different departments to streamline processes, manage budgets, and ensure smooth coordination across the property.

The management at Novotel Vijayawada Varun believes that Akhil’s experience and leadership will continue to strengthen the hotel’s focus on delivering high-quality hospitality experiences for guests.

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