Peter Ducker, chief executive of the Institute of Hospitality, said: “We believe that this is a natural step forward for Hospitality Assured. It is customary at the age of 18 to stand on your own feet and go out and explore new and exciting opportunities. 

“I am pleased that the Hospitality Assured Standard is in safe hands, as the Board of Directors comprises five experienced assessors who are very much in touch with the market. The Institute of Hospitality will remain actively involved as custodians of the Standard."

Hospitality Assured consists of an accreditation process that encourages businesses to look at their operation from the customer’s perspective. The assessment process involves interviews with members of staff at all levels. 

Responses and evidence are then collated based around the criteria within the nine steps of the Standard which is based on the Excellence Model of the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM). Analysis of the results provides benchmarking metrics enabling organisations to determine their current level of excellence and where they need to focus improvement efforts in their drive towards being more competitive.

Hospitality Assured has been used by a wide range of organisations, including local authorities, universities, contract caterers, care homes and event venues.