Joanna Boydell, the chief executive of Travelodge, has stepped down after 13 years with the company, as the budget hotel chain faces mounting criticism over its handling of safety incidents involving guests. The company announced her departure on Monday, with chief financial officer Ray Reidy taking over on an interim basis while a permanent successor is sought.
Boydell's departure follows safety failures and political pressure
Boydell was heavily criticised for her response to a 2022 incident in which a guest was sexually assaulted at a Travelodge in Maidenhead, Berkshire. The assailant, Kyran Smith, was given a key card to the woman's room without her consent and was jailed in February for seven-and-a-half years. The victim later described a £30 refund offered by the hotel as “insulting”.
Former prime minister Keir Starmer intervened, urging Boydell to “seriously engage” with the government after she cancelled a meeting with MPs. The chain has also faced scrutiny for giving men keys to women's rooms without prior permission.
Second assault in London raises further concerns
This month, it emerged that another incident occurred at a Travelodge in London. Staff gave a room key to a woman's domestic abuser, who then physically attacked her. The woman, who remains anonymous, told the BBC she was staying at the hotel to escape the man, but he followed her and was given a key by reception staff. They directed him to her room, where she said he kicked in the door, assaulted her, and tried to grab her phone.
Travelodge has stated that such incidents are “very rare” and that customer safety is a priority.
Interim CEO and board pledge to strengthen safety
Ray Reidy said: “We remain focused on the safety and wellbeing of our guests and will continue taking the actions necessary to strengthen the business. We will also continue to engage proactively and constructively with government and the wider hospitality industry on the issue of safety and security.”
Stephen Shurrock, Travelodge chairman, said: “This announcement does not change anything about our focus on safety and security. On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Jo for her dedication to Travelodge over the last 13 years.”
