However, it attributes the 23.4% rise in UK corporate business over the same period to the fact that business travellers are seeking mid-market hotels offering value-for-money."Many corporate travellers are booking both meetings and accommodation throughout Great Britain rather than concentrating on cities," said David Cameron, director of sales. "This is where the majority of our corporate business has been placed. But this is changing and the geographical spread of our 321 independent hotels is ensuring a more consistent spread of corporate business across the portfolio."

First Place, Best Western's meeting and venue booking service, increased business by 6% over the first four months. Trade through corporate booking agents grew 9%.

Best Western has gained four new members: the three-star, 55-bedroom Royal Derwent hotel in Allensford, Northumberland; the three-star, 37-bedroom Norwood Hall hotel in Aberdeen; the four-star, 128-bedroom Queen hotel in Chester; and the three-star, 58-bedroom Homestead Court hotel near Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire.