Our Audit & Training Services

Running an independent hotel means wearing a lot of hats, and it's genuinely difficult to see your own operation clearly from the inside. Our six audit services are designed to give you a  clear outside perspective at every stage of development, from planning your opening to protecting a business that's already performing well.

Operating across the UK and Egypt, all audits are partner-led, utilise deep local knowledge, and work to the specific regulatory and market standards of each country.  You will receive a comprehensive written report and recommendations plus two months of follow-up access to our team, so the work doesn't stop when the auditors leave.

We also provide bespoke training that builds a cohesive, high-performing service team, designed to deliver an exceptional guest experience every time.

Jump directly to individual services by clicking the buttons below, or scroll down the page to browse  all our services.

If you'd like to discuss what a Gabr Pilkington Associates audit or training could do for your property, please email or WhatsApp us to arrange a short, no-obligation telephone conversation.

Hotel Pre-Opening Audit

How will this help your business?

Opening a hotel is when standards are set and habits take hold.

A  Pre-Opening Audit gives you the advantage of seeing your operation clearly before guests do, identifying gaps in the guest journey, workflows, and handovers while they’re still easy and inexpensive to address.

Instead of learning through complaints or operational stress, you open with confidence and control, setting the business up for long-term success. 

It's for businesses who have not yet opened, and want to:

  • open smoothly without operational surprises or early reputational damage
  • avoid costly fixes later on by getting systems and workflows right the first time
  • set clear expectations for teams through thorough training, reducing pressure on management
  • define their brand clearly from the start
  • benchmark their costs and ensure that price points are competitive compared with other establishments offering similar services

What does a pre-opening audit involve?

Before

  • You get in touch by email so we can discuss your proposed operation and how this audit  will best support you
  • We prepare a clear, tailored proposal setting out the audit activities, timings, and costs
  • You confirm you’re happy to proceed and return the signed contract
  • You arrange payment of the non-refundable deposit
  • You arrange and pay for accommodation and subsistence for up to two auditors
  • You share any relevant documents or information

During

  • Up to two auditors visit for the agreed time and look at the proposed operational strategy
  • We gather notes, photographs, and videos, speak with you and any staff,  and review any documentation not already provided.

After

  • You arrange full payment on the final day of the audit

  • We provide verbal feedback on the final day, highlighting key observations and immediate priorities

  • We deliver a comprehensive written report within two weeks, with detailed recommendations to ensure a smooth opening.
  • You will have two months of access to our team for follow-up questions by email or telephone relating to the Pre-Opening Audit outcomes.

"Without GPA's input in the pre-opening stages, and auditing after opening, my business would have flopped within the first month. Their knowledge is invaluable and as a result I have a successful business."

Islam Mohammed, Restaurant Owner

Hotel Soft Opening Audit & Opening Audit

How will this help your business?

Many hospitality businesses fail within their first two years. While properties often open with new facilities and well-trained staff, standards can quickly slip as maintenance demands grow and staff turnover increases, placing ongoing pressure on training and service consistency.

Soft Opening Audit
A practical review of hotel operations conducted during a limited guest opening, identifying issues early so they can be addressed before full-scale trading begins.

Opening Audit
A post-opening review which ensures standards remain consistent as the operation gains pace. It highlights emerging risks and confirms that systems established at opening are efficient and effective.

An Opening Audit is for recently-opened businesses (0-2 years) who want to:

  • confirm that workflows are realistic and efficient, with all processes working effectively together when the establishment is at full capacity
  • ensure time, staffing, and resources are being used effectively, delivering value for money across the operation
  • embed consistent service standards as teams grow and change
  • ensure staff are appropriately trained and certified to deliver services safely and confidently
  • identify operational, compliance, and safety risks early, before they become costly or disruptive
  • make confident, evidence-informed business decisions during a critical growth phase

What does an opening audit involve?

Before

  • You get in touch by email so we can discuss your operation and how this audit  will best support you
  • We prepare a clear, tailored proposal setting out the audit activities, timings, and costs
  • You confirm you’re happy to proceed and return the signed contract
  • You arrange payment of the non-refundable deposit
  • You arrange and pay for accommodation and subsistence for up to two auditors
  • You share any relevant documents or information

During

  • Up to two auditors visit for the agreed time and look at the whole hotel operation
  • We gather notes, photographs, and videos, speak with you and any staff,  and review any documentation not already provided.

After

  • You arrange full payment on the final day of the audit

  • We provide verbal feedback on the final day, highlighting key observations and immediate priorities

  • We deliver a comprehensive written report within two weeks, with detailed recommendations to ensure that the standard set is being met 
  • We provide a tailored hotel audit checklist for each department.
  • You will have two months of access to our team for follow-up questions by email or telephone relating to the Pre-Opening Audit outcomes.

Hotel Growth Audit

How will this help your business?

Your business is thriving and you are highly rated on booking platforms. So why bother with an audit?

Because strong performance today doesn't guarantee it for tomorrow - or that you're operating at your full potential.  Good reviews can easily mask operational weaknesses which, if left unchecked, can develop into costly issues that impact performance, guest satisfaction, and future growth.

This maintenance audit ensures that you continue to flourish and provides clear direction for your next steps. It may be conducted across the entire hotel or focused on a specific area, such as the kitchens, front office, or Food & Beverage department.

A Growth Audit is for established businesses (2 years+) who want to:

  • analyse how all aspects of the organisation are working together, and address the root cause of any problems
  • identify where standards may be slipping, your team is under strain, or growth is being held back
  • maintain consistent standards as teams grow and change, reducing reliance on constant retraining and firefighting
  • save time and increase profitability by developing more efficient systems
  • identify opportunities for growth, for example moving from buffet to silver service, offering a turn down service or by expanding the physical property

What does a hotel growth audit involve?

Before

  • You get in touch by email so we can discuss your operation and how this audit  will best support you
  • We prepare a clear, tailored proposal setting out the audit activities, timings, and costs
  • You confirm you’re happy to proceed and return the signed contract
  • You arrange payment of the non-refundable deposit
  • We work with you to agree audit dates.
  • You arrange and pay for accommodation and subsistence for up to two auditors
  • You share any relevant documents or information

During

  • Up to two auditors visit for the agreed time and assess the full hotel operation to identify areas for improvement and growth.
  • We gather notes, photographs, and videos, speak with you and staff at all levels in all departments,  and review any documentation not already provided.

After

  • You arrange full payment on the final day of the audit

  • We provide verbal feedback on the final day, highlighting key observations and immediate priorities

  • We deliver a comprehensive written report within two weeks, with detailed recommendations for actions to take
  • You will have two months of access to our team for follow-up questions by email or telephone relating to the Growth Audit outcomes.

"The result of the process shift advised by GPA was happier staff, who felt under control, but also 30% less spend on amenities and 20% saving on linens.

Forte Grand Pyramids Hotel

Hotel Health & Safety Audit (Egypt only)

How will this help my business?

In a busy environment, it’s easy for standards to slip as teams change and daily pressures take over. An expert, independent Health & Safety audit provides a clear, objective view of how policies and procedures are being applied in practice across the hotel.

The audit identifies gaps between documented systems and day-to-day operations, helping you address risks before they lead to incidents, claims, enforcement action, or reputational damage.

A Health & Safety audit is for businesses at all stages of development who want to:

  • have a clear, practical view of how Health & Safety policies and procedures are actually being implemented in day-to-day operations
  • Identify specific gaps between documented procedures and actual working practices, allowing issues to be addressed before they escalate or attract external scrutiny.

  • reduce the risk of accidents, injuries, and liability

  • maintain compliance with Health & Safety legislation through structured oversight, rather than reacting under pressure to inspections or incidents

  • provide staff with clearer guidance, safer systems of work, and greater confidence in their working environment.

  • protect guest safety and trust, and your business reputation

What does a Health & Safety audit involve?

Before

  • You get in touch by email so we can discuss your operation and how this audit  will best support you
  • We prepare a clear, tailored proposal setting out the audit activities, timings, and costs
  • You confirm you’re happy to proceed and return the signed contract
  • You arrange payment of the non-refundable deposit
  • You arrange and pay for accommodation and subsistence for up to two auditors
  • You share any relevant documents or information

During

  • Up to two auditors visit for the agreed time and conduct an in-depth evaluation of your Health & Safety systems
  • We gather notes, photographs, and videos, speak with you and staff at all levels in all departments,  and review any documentation not already provided.

After

  • You arrange full payment on the final day of the audit

  • We provide verbal feedback on the final day, highlighting key observations and immediate priorities

  • We deliver a comprehensive written report within two weeks, making recommendations to address Health & Safety issues and improve systems, to ensure compliance with national guidelines
  • We provide structured checklists and signpost relevant qualifications where appropriate
  • You will have two months of access to our team for follow-up questions by email or telephone relating to the Health & Safety Audit outcomes.

Hotel Brand Standards Audit

How will this help my business?

When things get busy and teams change, it’s easy for the details that define your brand to soften or slip -  even with the best intentions. A Brand Standards Audit helps protect the character and personality of your hotel as it operates day to day.

This audit takes an objective look at how your standards show up in real life, from service style to presentation and guest interactions. It helps bring everyone back onto the same page, so the experience feels deliberate, consistent, and true to what your brand set out to be.

A Brand Standards Audit is for businesses at any stage who want to:

  • ensure guests experience the same level of quality and care during every visit
  • keep their brand identity clear as staff and managers change
  • turn written standards into everyday habits that teams understand and follow
  • strengthen customer recognition, trust and loyalty, and drive excellent reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations.

What does a brand standards audit involve?

Before

  • You get in touch by email so we can discuss your operation and how this audit  will best support you
  • We prepare a clear, tailored proposal setting out the audit activities, timings, and costs
  • You confirm you’re happy to proceed and return the signed contract
  • You arrange payment of the non-refundable deposit
  • You arrange and pay for accommodation and subsistence for up to two auditors
  • You share any relevant documents or information

During

  • Up to two auditors visit for agreed time and hold a full-staff meeting to gain insights into staff understanding of every aspect of the hotel's brand
  • We hold a structured discussion with management to explore their perspective on the brand’s positioning, values, and placement within the market.
  • We gather notes, photographs, and videos, speak with you and staff at all levels in all departments,  and review any documentation not already provided.

After

  • You arrange full payment on the final day of the audit

  • We provide verbal feedback on the final day, highlighting key observations and immediate priorities

  • We deliver a comprehensive written report within two weeks, which highlights areas where brand standards are not being fully met, with clear recommendations for corrective action
  • We provide structured checklists to ensure that the brand is being promoted consistently across every aspect of operations
  • You will have two months of access to our team for follow-up questions by email or telephone relating to the  Brand Standard Audit outcomes

"GPA completely redesigned our guest communication systems and we achieved an 85% reduction in service recovery costs within the first month."

Le Meridien Pyramids Hotel

Hotel Environmental Audit

How will this help my business?

In busy operations, habits can form quickly and both costs and environmental impact can easily creep up without anyone noticing.

An Environmental Audit takes a practical, realistic look at how your hotel uses energy, water, and materials on a day-to-day basis, identifying inefficiencies and highlighting where small, achievable changes can deliver meaningful cost savings and environmental benefits.

An Environmental Audit is for businesses at any stage who want to:

  • achieve lower utility bills and fewer cost surprises
  • reduce waste and improve efficiency without compromising guest comfort or service quality
  • make informed decisions about investments and upgrades
  • run a business that's well prepared for future regulations and rising costs
  • attract guests who value sustainability and responsible operations

What does an environmental audit involve?

Before

  • You get in touch by email so we can discuss your operation and how this audit  will best support you
  • We prepare a clear, tailored proposal setting out the audit activities, timings, and costs
  • You confirm you’re happy to proceed and return the signed contract
  • You arrange payment of the non-refundable deposit
  • You arrange and pay for accommodation and subsistence for up to two auditors
  • You share any relevant documents or information

During

  • Up to two auditors visit for the agreed period to review how the hotel’s operations impact the environment, including energy use, water consumption, and waste management.
  • We gather notes, photographs, and videos, speak with you and staff at all levels in all departments,  and review any documentation not already provided.

After

  • You arrange full payment on the final day of the audit

  • We provide verbal feedback on the final day, highlighting key observations and immediate priorities

  • We deliver a comprehensive written report within two weeks, detailing practical recommendations to reduce environmental impact across all departments
  • We provide structured checklists for replacing long-standing products and practices with more environmentally sustainable alternatives.
  • You will have two months of access to our team for follow-up questions by email or telephone relating to the  Brand Standard Audit outcomes

"GPA showed us how to meet our environmental targets and reduced our spend on cleaning fluids by 75%. Their knowledge of traditional, minimal chemical products fit so well with what we are trying to achieve"

Mohammed Fawy, Hotel Owner

Bespoke Service Staff Training

How can bespoke training help your business?

We train all your service staff to work as one co-ordinated team. Every employee understands not only their own responsibilities but also how their colleagues' roles fit into the bigger picture. We believe that there should be no "that's not my job" attitudes, and we equip your team with the skills and versatility to step into any departmental role when required, ensuring your hotel runs smoothly under any circumstances.

What does our training involve?

Before

  • You get in touch by email or WhatsApp so we can discuss your operation and what training will best support you. Where are the shortfalls? What's causing you stress?
  • We read guest comments from internal questionnaires (sent by you) and from booking platforms and decide how positive comments can be built on and adverse comments addressed.
  • We prepare a clear, tailored proposal setting out the training activities, timings and costs.
  • You confirm you’re happy to proceed and return the signed contract.
  • You arrange payment of the non-refundable deposit.
  • You arrange and pay for accommodation and subsistence for up to two trainers.
  • You share any relevant documents and information as regards prior training.

During

  • Up to two trainers visit for the agreed period to train and upgrade the service on offer.
  • We gather notes, photographs and videos and speak with you and staff at all levels in the department/s chosen for training and review any documentation not already provided.
  • We set consistent standards in the requested areas. Procedures are drawn up reflecting these.
  • We give training and retraining during the visit as required until all staff are competent in the roles and performing to the standards set.

After

  • You arrange full payment on the final day of the audit.
  • We provide verbal feedback on the final day, highlighting key observations and immediate priorities, should there be any.
  • We deliver a comprehensive written report within two weeks, detailing practical recommendations to ensure that service standards are maintained.
  • We provide structured checklists for all areas requested for training. These are especially useful for new staff inductions.
  • You will have two months of access to our team for follow-up questions by email or telephone relating to the training outcomes.
drawstring unbleached calico laundry bag with mobile phone showing recycling symbol laid on top

The photo shows the Ambassador’s Kitchen at the British Embassy Garden Party, Cairo.

It's a perfect example of what GPA is all about – team work.  A waiter from the senior (experienced) Food and Beverage Team of Forte Grand Pyramids Hotel rolls up his sleeves and takes a “turn” at washing up. Not a typical task for a waiter but helping your internal customers is what we expect.