SANDMAN Hotel Group wants to expand across the UK and Europe after hailing its rewarding move to open a hotel in Newcastle.

The 175-room Sandman Signature Hotel and Shark Club Gastro Bar was the company’s first foray outside North America when it opened on the site of the Scottish and Newcastle Brewery head office in Gallowgate.

The company is owned by the Gaglardi family, who see the opening as the first in an international expansion which they say will lead to employment for 200 people.

Director and family member Mitch Gaglardi said: “Launching a new international hotel and bar in the Newcastle market has been demanding yet rewarding. We have tremendous confidence in this city and its future.

“The cultural developments of the past decade are very impressive and seem to have given the region great resilience. We see a very positive outlook for quality leisure operators who offer distinctive products.

“Combined with the Geordies’ global reputation for knowing how to enjoy themselves, and being right opposite Newcastle United’s iconic ground, we are even more delighted to have Newcastle as our first international location.

“I have also been impressed by the professionalism and attitude of the business community up here. NewcastleGateshead Initiative has been first class, providing valuable information and positive support throughout the process.”