Radisson RED Glasgow has proudly earned a spot on the prestigious TOP 100 Sustainable Hotels and Resorts of the World list, a testament to the hotel’s uncompromising commitment to eco-conscious hospitality. In an exclusive conversation with Alexander Chetchikov, President of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce, the following interview delves into the vision behind this accolade and the unique philosophy driving Radisson RED Glasgow. It explores the intersection of luxury, sustainability, and innovation through the perspective of General Manager Graham Chalmers, a seasoned leader in the hospitality industry with over two decades of experience.

Alexander Chetchikov: Radisson RED Glasgow’s recent recognition as one of the TOP 100 Sustainable Hotels and Resorts of the World is a remarkable achievement. Could you share the strategies behind this success?

Graham Chalmers: Sustainability is a real passion for me, and indeed the whole team here at Radisson RED Glasgow. It’s been a key part of our ethos from the start so we’re very humbled and proud to be recognized in this sector – we strive to innovate on all fronts but I do believe we have excelled on sustainability. We work hard at every level to deliver maximum impact, from the gym’s laundry strategies and heat usage to collecting rainwater on the roof and channeling it to water our plants. We always work hard to lead the way and never follow, in everything we do, encouraging input and ideas from the team and from guests too. I’m proud to say that we were the first hotel in Scotland to receive the Green Key award, in preparation for our part in hosting COP26 taking place on the hotel campus.

AC: As a General Manager with extensive experience in hospitality, how do you balance operational efficiency with delivering exceptional guest experiences?

GC: The guest experience is of course pivotal and frankly the priority for me – it all begins and ends with guests enjoying their stay, feeling welcomed and special, and escaping from the rigors of everyday life. That’s why we are here. Behind the scenes, it falls to me to make sure the operational side of the business is running correctly and of course, that is a balancing act at times – but having a good team around you is the key to that. All team members are empowered to live by the “Yes I Can!” service philosophy giving them autonomy to create memorable moments for our guests.

AC: Sustainability is now a key focus for luxury travelers. How does Radisson RED Glasgow integrate sustainability into its daily operations?

GC: Every step of the way we consider and implement sustainability – I mentioned some of the core strategies previously, such as the innovations around the heat generated in the gym, how we operate our laundry systems, and so on. We’re really proud of the rainwater initiative which came from looking at our roof structure and thinking about the climate here – it seemed a no-brainer and just a matter of logistics, which we nailed thanks to our engineering guys. There are always more changes and improvements you can make, it’s about taking the time and energy and devoting it to the right thing.

AC: What role do the local culture and Glasgow’s vibrant energy play in shaping the guest experience at Radisson RED?

GC: We are passionate about music in Glasgow and at Radisson RED, from our in-house events and brands such as my own progressive house brand Skyline, or Guilty Pleasures, Boogie Brunch, Electric Dreams….plus visiting icons such as HedKandi and GBX Generation. A lot of guests stay to attend those parties so that works perfectly, but also we work closely with concert venues OVO Hydro, SEC, and Clyde Auditorium which are on our campus. So we will create live music or DJ events pre and post-show to dovetail with the artists performing at the venues next door, so we are the ideal pre and post-concert venue. It’s thinking out of the box and helping showcase our amazing city and its vibrant culture.

AC: How would you describe the essence of modern luxury, particularly in a dynamic urban setting like Glasgow?

GC: Radisson RED Glasgow. It’s that simple. Stylish, modern, cool, perfectly soundtracked with welcoming friends on hand to assist – and a sustainable, ethical heart. Check out our RED Sky Bar – it says it all.

AC: The Red Sky Bar is a standout feature of the hotel. What inspired its design, and how does it enhance the overall guest experience?

GC: Beautiful isn’t it? The “glass box in the sky” as it is fondly known is the most iconic room in the city for me. The views, the VOID sound system, the global artists, and the brand partners. It was designed to showcase our city and it does so to perfection. Where else can you see Marti Pellow or Franz Ferdinand play, with the city stretched out behind them? Guest experience is …everything. Your room is a few steps (and an elevator ride) from the venue where your concert or club party is happening. Beat that.

AC: What advice would you give to aspiring hospitality professionals who aim to lead in the luxury sector?

GC: Do it. Don’t aim to do anything, just do it. I can’t stand “try”. If you say you’ll try you’re not doing anything. If you want to lead the way in our sector, make it happen, show it. Just start doing it.

AC: Looking ahead, how do you see Radisson RED Glasgow evolving to meet the changing expectations of luxury travelers over the next five years?

GC: We always look ahead, forecasting trends and opportunities, and most importantly, never be complacent in what we do. Glasgow is a fast-moving city and there are many new hotels always opening. We cannot stay stagnant – variety and keeping up with guest expectations is an integral part of the business. We’re excited to be extending our place in the campus and market by expanding the business by developing the Rotunda building across the road into a world-class events and music venue in 2026 and extending the Radisson name with the addition of a Prize hotel in the same street. This will enhance the experience for luxury travelers by providing a new venue and offering for their stay. But the key is retaining the core of our ethos which is guests first. This will be the same across all sites. As long as the guests are happy, the rest can be worked out.

Thank you, Graham, for sharing your valuable insights into the dynamic world of luxury and sustainability. To experience the unique offerings of Radisson RED Glasgow, from its eco-friendly initiatives to its iconic Red Sky Bar, visit https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-red-glasgow