THE hotel group which chose Newcastle as its first site outside of North America is now targeting wider European expansion on the back of its success in the North East.

After the opening of the 175-room Sandman Signature hotel and its Shark Club Gastro Bar in Newcastle, the Canadian-based family-owned Sandman Hotel Group is now actively looking to roll out its portfolio of formats and brands across other locations in the UK and Europe.

The group, owned by the Gaglardi family, bought the former Scottish & Newcastle Brewery head office in Gallowgate in 2009.

As their first ever location outside of North America, this flagship project has been a major step in the group’s international expansion.

Once completed, it will directly employ 200 people, with several more jobs created during the construction phase and in its supply chain.

“Launching a new international hotel and bar in the Newcastle market has been demanding yet rewarding,” said Mitch Gaglardi, director and family member, who moved here to oversee the project nearly two years ago.

“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.”