The Society of The Golden Keys 73rd Anniversary Cocktail Party
- lisahylton2
- May 1
- 3 min read
The Anniversary Cocktail Party of the Union Internationale des Concierges d’Hôtels “Les Clefs d’Or” (UICH) was held at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park.
Guests mingled outside the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park. Photo: Waterhouse Photography
Around 230 guests, including Concierges, Golden Keys business affiliates and hoteliers, attended the event to mark a particularly significant milestone - the 73rd Anniversary of the UICH.
Hosted by President of The Society, Binoy Nair and his committee, the glittering event was sponsored by The Tourism Media Group, Golden Tours and Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park.
Where It All Began
The annual Cocktail Party commemorated the moment, 73 years ago, when leading hotel Concierges from across Europe came together with a shared vision: to unite their profession internationally under the principles of 'excellence, friendship, and mutual support'.
The founding meeting of UICH was held on 25th April 1952 at the Carlton Hotel in Cannes, in the South of France.
Representatives from seven countries - France, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, and Belgium - laid the foundation of what would become the world’s foremost professional association for hotel Concierges.
A spokesperson for The Society of Golden Keys for Great Britain and The Commonwealth, said: "We remain exceptionally proud that the British Section was one of these original founding members. From that day to this, Great Britain has played a key role in upholding the ideals of Les Clefs d’Or: service above self, the pursuit of excellence, and an unwavering commitment to the guests we serve."
This Year's Cocktail Party
The evening was opened with a keynote speech by Torsten van Dullemen, Managing Director of the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, who spoke passionately about the enduring values of the Concierge profession and the importance of excellence in hospitality today.
The gathering were also privileged to hear from Martin Williams, CEO of the Evolv Group, whose inspiring address reflected on innovation, leadership, and the future of guest service.
Society President, Binoy Nair, Head Concierge, St James' Court a Taj hotel, gave the President's address.
The Society was also deeply honoured to welcome Burak İpecki, the current International General Secretary.
Distinguished Figures
Amongst those present were many distinguished figures from both the national and international Les Clefs d'Or family, including:
Paul Still, Antony Lynch, and Toru Machida, all past National Presidents of the British Section.
Simon Thomas, former International President of UICH.
Current National President, Binoy Nair.
Some of those distinguished figures who attended the Anniversary Cocktail Party.
Photos: Waterhouse Photography
25 Year Service Presentations
A significant moment of the evening was the presentation of 25-year service pins to three highly respected colleagues: Richard Price, Keith Berwick, and Ashley Harman.
A Society spokesperson said: "Their achievements stand as a testament to the loyalty, resilience, and dedication that characterise the very best of our profession".
25 year service pins were presented to Richard Price (far left); Keith Berwick (centre) and Ashley Harman (third from far right). Photos: Waterhouse Photography
Long Service Recognition
A particularly heartfelt highlight of the evening was the recognition of two gentlemen who have each given decades of service to The Society and the wider profession: Dennis Purcell, aged 84, and Francis Spiteri, aged 77.
A Society Spokesperson said: "Both former Presidents of the British Section, their contributions are woven into the very fabric of our history, and their presence at the celebration lent a profound sense of legacy and pride."
Supporting Charity
During the evening, the Society presented a cheque for £20,000 to Hospitality Action, their long-term charity partner. The proceeds were raised at the successful Gala night held at the Peninsula London in February.
Some of those who joined the momentous occasion. Photos: Waterhouse Photography
