The ever-increasing room rates in London boosted the profits of hotel chains operating in the capital in January.

According to the latest HotStats survey from TRI Hospitality Consulting, gross operating profit increased by 4.9 per cent in London, to reach £47.97 per available room, compared to January 2007.

With no drop in occupancy, profit growth in the capital was the result of 6.5 per cent uplift in achieved average room rate to £111.02.

“January is historically the weakest month of the year for hotels, so despite no change in volume it is encouraging to see London’s hoteliers still pushing rate upwards,” said David Bailey, deputy managing director of TRI Hospitality Consulting.