HM August 2024

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Michael Johnson reflects on his career in hotels as he enters retirement.

Relive the highlights from the inaugural AHICE Fiji Islands Summit.

Soneva Founder Sonu Shivdasani to headline the first ever AHICE Maldives.

In HM’s 2024 Technology Outlook, experts explore the power of AI and machine learning and the impact on hotels.

Leaders at the forefront of hotel technology share the powerful innovations changing the game for hoteliers and guests.

Hotel groups invest in learning and development for teams to thrive.

Inside the new Novotel and Ibis Styles Melbourne Airport.

Development leaders discuss the evolving corporate segment and demand for MICE hotels.

HM Q&A

La Vie Hotels and Resorts CEO, Jerry Xu, on filling a gap in the market.

Hilton’s SVP for Development - APAC, Clarence Tan, discusses tools for

James Wilkinson reflects on a successful AHICE Fiji and looks ahead to upcoming events.

Ruth Hogan points to a

The essential stories you need to know this

TFE Hotels invests in

Your

the key

industry appointments.

Tech experts look to

hotels of the future

Hilton’s Clarence Tan discusses key development

How Fiji has become the toast of the South Pacific

After six months of build up following the launch of the AHICE Fiji Islands Investment in Tourism Summit last December, we hosted a highly successful conference at the Sofitel Fiji Beach Resort in Spa at the start of July – and what a debut it was.

On the week of the event, which drew over 330 owners, investors, operators, suppliers and consultants, the numbers rose sharply over a two-day period and what was envisaged to be a conference for 250 quickly turned into a record crowd.

The

While there were certainly many highlights – you can catch our full recap on pages 32-34 – one of the biggest talking points was the incredible Average Daily Rate (ADR) across the nation, which is 71% higher than it was in 2019 at AU$461.

The latest STR data for May 2024, also shows ADR up almost 9% compared the same month in 2023, while occupancy has moderated somewhat.

There’s also no such thing as a low season anymore, with the lowest ADR at AU$417 in February 2024 and rising up to AU$658 in July 2023, which are nothing short of incredible numbers.

“We don’t have a low season in Fiji,” said Tourism Fiji CEO, Brent Hill. “We have a peak season and a shoulder season.”

Fiji is completely flying from a tourism standpoint and what’s fantastic is there are some 40 projects across the nation in various stages of development that will provide an even greater boost to the nation.

On behalf of the AHICE and HM magazine team, I’m thrilled AHICE Fiji was such a success, and we are excited to be returning again in 2025, in partnership with Tourism Fiji and Investment Fiji, on June 24-26 and that will also include a charity golf tournament which we are incredibly excited about.

Up next, we have the all-new AHICE Maldives Hotel Investment Summit and the launch of AHICE Far East Asia in Japan, two markets that are seeing incredible growth and we are thrilled to be taking AHICE there.

As always you can expect comprehensive previews and wrap-ups in HM, and I hope to see you at one of our events soon.

Yours in hospitality,

James Wilkinson Editor-In-Chief, HM magazine Chair & Convenor, AHICE global conferences

AHICE Fiji Islands Investment in Tourism Summit welcomed over 330 delegates

around the world capturing our attention this month.

The all-new AHICE Maldives Hotel Investment Summit launches in August followed by AHICE Far East Asia in Japan

Food for thought

It’s always an interesting exercise to look into the crystal ball and try to pinpoint what the future of hotels could look like. With the rise of AI technologies and automation already impacting the industry, who’s to know the true impact it could have decades from now? Enter, Pro-invest Group’s Director of Digital, Data and Technology, Howard Phung. In HM’s technology outlook, Hotels of the Future (see p42), Phung unpacks the fascinating impact of Generative AI on the future of hotels, and a host of leaders at the forefront of technology discuss the innovations making waves in the industry.

Speaking of hotels of the future, it’s uplifting to see so much investment in hospitality education of late with groups like Ascott, Capella and Pro-invest aligning with major universities and hotel schools to support students starting out in their careers and ensure continuous learning for teams (see p58).

The Ascott Global Academy for Excellence (AGAX), for example, will offer apprenticeship programmes, hospitality and service training courses, as well as personal development programmes.

“We aim to cultivate a culture where every Ascott associate is equipped with the tools and resources needed to thrive in their roles,” said Ascott’s Chief Operating Officer, Europe, Middle East, Africa (EMEA), South Asia and China, Lee Ngor Houai.

I recently sat down with La Vie Hotels and Resorts CEO, Jerry Xu, to chat about independent hotel management (see p62). Fun fact: La Vie is not only winning favour with hotel brands; the company is also in discussions with multinational luxury fashion houses and automotive giants.

“We’re working with all brands, including fashion brands – there is lots of interest from fashion brands at the moment who are seeking distribution and management skill sets on the ground,” Xu said.

“We have been in conversation with multinational fashion brands lately, including Ralph Lauren, Fendi, Lamborghini Aston Martin, not only Australia, but also Dubai and Asia.”

Also in this issue, we take a deep dive in hotel development in Asia Pacific with Hilton’s SVP for Development - APAC, Clarence Tan, who discusses the changing landscape and tools for growth.

Elsewhere in development, a noteworthy team of hotel experts weigh in on opportunities in corporate and MICE hotels.

Plenty of food for thought!

I hope you enjoy this issue and please do reach out if you have any feedback or story ideas to share.

Ruth Hogan Editor, HM magazine

I had some fun using generative AI to ‘imagine’ what the ‘hotel of the future’ might look like

I recently spoke with La Vie Hotels and Resorts CEO, Jerry Xu, about independent hotel management in Asia Pacific

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Photography Cover photography by Oneill Photographics.

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The StandardX arrives in Melbourne

Standard International debuts its latest global brand in the Melbourne  suburb  of  Fitzroy.

THE STANDARDX – the newest brand from Standard International – makes its global debut in Melbourne this month with the opening of a Fitzroy hotel on August 8. With interiors by Melbourne-based interior design firm Hecker Guthrie, the 125-room hotel takes inspiration from the local “post-

punk Little Band scene of yesteryear” to the music venues, street art and cafés of today.

All-day Thai dining concept, Bang, is led by Executive Chef Justin Dingle-Garciyya and offers a menu that celebrates bold street flavours and techniques using local produce.

Hotel guests also have exclusive access

to The Roof, a rooftop dining experience inspired by the melodic flavours of Mercado Medellin with panoramic views of Fitzroy and Melbourne.

The Box, a retail concept in the lobby, offers everyday essentials, lifestyle items, as well as snacks and beverages.

Minor acquires Melbourne jazz hotel

Minor Hotels adds a distinctive boutique offering to its portfolio.

MINOR HOTELS HAS further expanded its portfolio of Melbourne properties with the acquisition of The Jazz Corner Hotel in the CBD’s historic legal district.

Located opposite Flagstaff Gardens, the hotel – which will continue to operate under its current name – presents live performances from local, national and international performers almost every night in its worldfamous Bird’s Basement live jazz venue.

“We are excited to add this distinctive property to our Melbourne portfolio,” said Minor Hotels Australia and New Zealand Chief Operating Officer, Craig Hooley.

“Melbourne is a vibrant city with a dynamic music, nightlife and major events scene, and

The Jazz Corner Hotel is ideally situated for travellers to access everything the city has to offer – then unwind whilst enjoying live jazz performances in the comfort of their hotel.”

The hotel’s range of themed suites pay homage to jazz legends, such as the Ella Fitzgerald Studio View, the Charlie Parker One Bedroom View and the Frank Sinatra King Business Suite.

Each suite offers city or parkland views and includes kitchen and dining areas, in-room laundries, mini-bars, designer bathrooms, coffee machines and the latest TV and casting technology.

The hotel also features a fully equipped gym, café and the Mezzanine restaurant and bar, serving up cocktails and casual dining.

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Marriott signs Luxury Collection resort win on the Gold Coast

The global hotel operator has partnered with Makris Group on a luxury resort at Marina Mirage.

MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL IS set to bring a Luxury Collection resort to the Gold Coast after signing an agreement with Makris Group to develop a new-build hotel.

The 122-key Marina Mirage Gold Coast, a Luxury Collection Resort, which is scheduled to open in 2027, will be positioned within the Marina Mirage mixed-use precinct and is expected to feature a signature restaurant, expansive function and event spaces, a rooftop bar and pool, jacuzzi, garden, wellness, beauty centre and a day spa.

The resort is slated to be the first Luxury Collection property in mainland Australia, following the December 2021 opening of The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart, and joins Marriott’s existing Gold Coast hotels, JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort and Spa and Sheraton Grand Mirage Gold Coast.

“The reimagination of the iconic Marina Mirage precinct presents an inspiring opportunity to expand our luxury footprint on the Gold Coast – a market we know very well, after more than 35 years’ experience operating the city’s two leading resorts under our JW Marriott and Sheraton brands,” said Marriott International Vice President of Hotel Development for Australia, New Zealand and Pacific, Richard Crawford.

“The destination’s resilience during and post pandemic has been remarkable, and we are very confident that proven demand for high-quality hotel experiences will be a strong

foundation for the success of our first Luxury Collection property on mainland Australia.”

Family-owned and operated property developer, Makris Group, which has built a portfolio of impressive retail, residential, and mixed-use precincts over the course of 40 years, has owned the site since 2013.

“We were drawn to the Makris Group’s bold vision for the rejuvenation of their valuable waterfront site, and we are naturally thrilled that the family has selected The Luxury Collection as the brand for the hotel, a centrepiece of what is certain to be a destination-defining project,” Crawford said.

Makris Group Chief Executive Officer, Jason Makris, said the project is true to his father’s vision for the precinct.

“The approved development embodies Con Makris’ long-term vision for Marina Mirage,” Makris said.

“As part of The Luxury Collection, the new Marina Mirage will deliver an authentic resort and destination with a diverse array of local award-winning restaurants and boutiques, wellness, health and beauty facilities, a new state-of-the-art marina, and, for the first time, a limited selection of villas and residences.

“Along with its excellence achieved in architectural design, we are confident that our unique property will quickly reinvigorate its environment, while delivering a worldclass destination for the Gold Coast, Queensland, and our economy.”

The 122-key Marina Mirage Gold Coast, a Luxury Collection Resort, is slated to open in 2027

The luxury resort will form part of a mixed-use precinct featuring awardwinning hospitality and retail offerings

Two Crowne Plazas on the way in Sydney

Star Millennium is partnering with IHG and Trilogy Hotels to elevate two Sydney hotels to the Crowne Plaza brand.

SYDNEY IS SET to welcome the arrival of two Crowne Plaza hotels over the next six months following a rebrand of existing properties at Sydney Airport and Macquarie Park.

Under the ownership of Frank and Wade Huang of Star Millennium Pty Ltd, Holiday Inn Sydney Airport and Courtyard by Marriott, Sydney-North Ryde will be elevated to IHG’s premium Crowne Plaza brand with independent hotel operator, Trilogy Hotels, appointed to manage the day-today operations of both properties under a franchise agreement.

“We are honoured to have been chosen by Star Millennium as the partner to brand these two well-known Sydney hotels,” said IHG Hotels and Resorts Director of Development, Cameron Burke.

“It’s exciting to see the Crowne Plaza brand continue to go from strength to strength, building on its reputation as one of the world’s best known and loved premium hotel brands among corporate and leisure travellers alike.”

Star Millennium Pty Ltd Director, Wade Huang, said the company is proud of its “longstanding and successful relationship” with IHG and looks forward to embarking on a new franchise model with Trilogy Hotels.

“Expanding our collaboration [with IHG] by integrating our Sydney Airport and Macquarie Park hotels into the Crowne Plaza family is an exciting step,” said Huang.

“We believe both of our assets have so much to gain from this new model. This is an exciting milestone, and we look forward to taking full advantage of Trilogy’s agile, bespoke and experienced approach to hotel operations.”

Trilogy Hotels will be responsible for operational and bottom-line profit performance and spearheading the rebranding and refurbishment of both

Courtyard by Marriott, Sydney-North Ryde will be refurbished and rebranded to Crowne Plaza Macquarie Park in early 2025

properties, providing an operating platform and access to systems, training, and team development.

Under this deal, Trilogy will build a team of portfolio leaders and operate these teams for Star Millennium across their other hotels.

“Trilogy Hotels is delighted to be appointed by a wonderful family of hoteliers, the Huang Family, to manage their iconic properties,” said Trilogy Hotels CEO Scott Boyes

“Together, we will be driving growth with a common set of values and a shared vision for how hotels should be operated.”

Trilogy has already commenced operations at the 252-room Sydney Airport hotel, which will open in September 2024. Having undergone a AU$15 million refurbishment of guest rooms in 2022, further updates will be made to its guest rooms, lobby, conference rooms, and food and beverage outlets to complete its transition into the premium segment.

The 196-room Courtyard by Marriott, Sydney-North Ryde will be managed by Trilogy from January 1. A comprehensive refurbishment of the lobby and guest rooms will be undertaken before opening as Crowne Plaza Macquarie Park in early 2025.

Holiday Inn Sydney Airport will open as a Crowne Plaza in September

DININGDestination

TFE Hotels is creating deeper customer connections by delivering innovative hospitality experiences and design-led venues.

In recent years, the hotel industry has witnessed a dynamic shift in its food and beverage offerings, reflecting broader changes in consumer preferences. Today's hotel guests crave more than just a place to sleep; they seek experiences that create lasting memories and hoteliers, like TFE Hotels, are stepping up to the ‘plate’.

As Tish Nyar, Senior Director of Operations for ANZ, explains: “Over the past few years, TFE has partnered with some of the country’s finest F&B and design minds to develop standalone brands, and to reimagine how we deliver hospitality in those venues,” he said. “Essentially, we’re working to satisfy a growing appetite for memorable experiences and, as a result, establishing connections with our guests that go beyond a simple business transaction.”

For TFE Hotels, this has included creating immersive design-led venues that transport diners to other times and places; infusing local influences into interior and menu design; framing incredible views as part of the venue experience; and using flavour as the cornerstone of culinary experiences.

IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES

Australia’s beverage scene in hotels is changing rapidly, with mixologists using innovative techniques to raise the bar. To that end, HM ‘Hotel Bar of the Year’ winner, Dean and Nancy on 22 recently launched an extra celestial menu called “Above the Clouds”, which features 17 creative cocktails – including Dean & Nancy’s first edible cocktail, The Spaceman – designed to transport guests beyond the confines of Level 22 with just one sip.

Dean & Nancy also elevates the experience by balancing decadence and drama with precision and playful service to bring the magic of a 1950s-style ‘hotel’ bar experience alive. This is aided by George Livissianis’ black and gold palette and minimalist-mid-century design, which provides glamour without detracting from Sydney’s arresting skyline. A curved brass staircase from A by Adina’s lobby to the bar, glossy, gold-veined marble tables, baby grand piano and debonair bartenders add a touch of theatre.

Developed in partnership with the team behind internationally acclaimed cocktail bar,

Maybe Sammy, Dean & Nancy’s 360-degree aspect, two-storey windows and location atop Sydney’s A by Adina Hotel – make guests feel like they’ve been transported to New York or Tokyo – whilst delivering one of the best drinking views in Sydney.

It’s a formula that’s been incredibly successful for TFE, with Dean & Nancy earning a place among the Top 10 Best International Hotel Bar nominees, the only Australian hotel bar to feature and its third consecutive nomination.

HARNESSING LOCAL INFLUENCES

At Olivine wine bar in Melbourne’s north, the interior architects (CHADA) and F&B team played to the venue’s strengths, to deliver one of the most unique bars in the country.

As part of the billion-dollar development in Melbourne's north Coburg, Pentridge’s former heritage cells were carefully transformed into a string of intimate alcoves. Leading Australian design studio CHADA responded to the design brief for the venue with a bold approach to old-meets-new,

delivering a fresh, elegant design within the confines of the former prison’s architecture. Fine brass mesh ceiling, soft lighting and luxurious leather seating eschews its former austerity.

“The conversion of Pentridge Prison into an entertainment quarter with two hotels and two venues in B-Division, was possibly one of the most difficult repurposings of a heritage complex ever undertaken in Australia,” says CHADA Creative Director, Juliet Ashworth. “It was a project like no other and the outcome is astonishing when you consider what we started with.”

Behind the bar, Keaton Puckett and her team of talented sommeliers showcase the absolute best of our local wine industry with every pour. Olivine’s Book of Wine features more than 500 impressive wine labels from boutique and established producers, but also a watercolour series of intricate maps and illustrations by Melbourne based figurative artist, Elizabeth Nicholls. Whilst the venue’s produce-driven menu is influenced by the bounty from seasonal harvests.

VENUES WITH VIEWS

Recognising the showstopping views atop Vibe Hotel Melbourne had to be shared, Paul Kelly, the director and Founder of specialist hospitality design company Paul Kelly Design, worked with hotel owners, Sino Group, General Manager, Sai Amani and Venue Manager, Claire More, to transform the hotel’s former penthouse apartments into

Fleet rooftop bar, a chic, 90-pax rooftop bar reminiscent of an intimate private suite.

Kelly’s fun yet sophisticated fit out, with design touches from the 1980s, comes complete with custom made furniture and a Travertine long bar. A wraparound outdoor terrace is decked out with green and white striped upholstery to add a garden party frisson, while the retractable roof and glass panelling not only caters to all weather conditions but frames stunning city views to perfection.

“The proportions of the space were grand, so we set about opening it up so guests could really enjoy the Melbourne skyline,” Paul says.

“In fact, the guest journey – from the lobby zone on the ground floor, to the wallpaper, the representation of the timber veneer, the calm walls and the port hole door – is all about unveiling that dramatic view.”

Importantly, every seat at Fleet has a view of the river. And, at night, the space comes alive as the city lights switch on, trains snake their way along the tracks to Flinders Street station and the Crown Casino fireballs light up the Yarra.

Salted Egg restaurant at Quincy Melbourne celebrates authentic South East Asian cuisine

L-R: CHADA Creative Director, Juliet Ashworth, Paul Kelly Design Founder and Director, Paul Kelly, Olivine Wine Bar, Sommelier, Keaton Puckett, Vibe Melbourne General Manager, Sai Amani, and Salted Egg Demi Chef, June Chaw

“We wanted to make Fleet a special experience and worth the find,” Kelly said of the popular rooftop space.

CULINARY JOURNEYS

The globalisation of palates has led to an increased demand for diverse and authentic flavours. Quincy Melbourne, with its SouthEast Asian roots and laneway address, is well placed to take guests on a culinary journey.

According to Executive Chef, Adam Woodfield, Quincy is more like “an entertainment venue with rooms attached” where hotel guests’ needs will be met before demand, owing to the team’s focus on ‘anticipatory hospitality’.

Namely, the joy of establishing meaningful connections – long before check-in – to understand likes/dislikes and guide curation of bespoke surprises, covering everything from the on-demand cocktail service to tiffin service.

Recognised among Australia’s most celebrated advocates and masters of authentic Southeast Asian cuisine – notching up accolades for venues of the ilk of Sydney’s Jimmy Liks, Melbourne’s Chin Chin and Hamilton Island’s Coca Chu – Adam says Quincy’s tagline, “Be Yourself” gave him license to ‘do just that’ in the hotel precinct’s standalone Salted Egg venue.

Put simply, his mission is to open hearts and minds to the power and provenance of the ‘life-changing’ dishes he first fell in love with two decades ago. The kind you’d normally expect to trek far and wide through places like Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia

to discover. As Adam has, year after year. In the process, mindfully honing his skills to pay homage to each region’s culinary individuality through a fine balancing act of heat and spice, and all-important interplay between sweet, sour, and salty elements. Lively, lip-smacking dishes, steeped in culture and tradition.

To ensure Salted Egg’s dining experience constantly evolves and continues to represent traditional techniques and flavour, Woodfield works closely with his team of chefs who hail from Vietnam, Thailand or anywhere in Southeast Asia.

THE FUTURE OF HOTEL DINING

According to Global Marketing Officer, Katia Giurtalis, TFE’s commitment to delivering authentic food and beverage experiences is reflected throughout their global network.

“One has just to look at Adina Munich’s flagship restaurant, Fitzroy, which is named after a northside suburb that’s home to some of Melbourne’s best restaurants and bars,” she said. “The menu is thoughtful and authentic

– and you won’t find any ‘Aussie archetypes there, but rather a menu that reflects the best of multicultural Australia. It’s the best kind of storytelling!”

According to Giurtalis, technology is also playing a crucial role in transforming hotel food and beverage services at TFE and around the world. Dining on demand, seamless grocery delivery (for the apartment hotel brands) and mobile payment solutions are helping to streamline TFE’s dining offerings and meet the needs of our guests.

“As hotels continue to adapt to changing consumer demands, the food and beverage industry will remain a focal point for innovation as hoteliers continue to set new standards. What we do know is that the future of hotel dining promises to be exciting, diverse, and deeply aligned with the preferences and values of modern travellers,” she said.

And the highlight? All of these world-class experiences are seamlessly integrated within the hotel, meaning you won’t have to travel far to indulge. n

Dean & Nancy’s first edible cocktail, The Spaceman

Olivine wine bar at Destination Pentridge offers a unique and intimate experience

EVT launches Rydges in fast-growing Victoria suburb

EVT has partnered with Serene Capital to introduce Rydges Ringwood.

EVT IS SET to launch a Rydges hotel near Victoria’s renowned Yarra Valley region when it takes management of Sebel Ringwood on August 1, under an agreement with owner, Serene Capital.

The hotel, which was constructed in 2021, will be rebranded as Rydges Ringwood, marking EVT’s sixth hotel in the Melbourne area.

“We are thrilled to welcome Rydges Ringwood into our portfolio,” said EVT Hotels and Resorts Director, Norman Arundel.

“The competitive selection process highlighted EVT’s commitment to quality management practices and exceptional guest experiences.

“This management contract aligns with our strategy to enhance the Rydges brand presence and reinforces our commitment to offering quality accommodation to our guests.”

Located in the fast-growing suburb of Ringwood, at the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges, the property features 103 guest rooms – a mix of studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments with courtyard balconies – all of which feature a kitchen or kitchenette, workspace, flat screen TV, and highspeed internet.

The onsite restaurant Orchard Bar and Grill offers a locally sourced menu with indoor and outdoor dining options. There are two connecting meeting and event spaces available, equipped with the latest audiovisual technology; and guests can avail of

state-of-the-art facilities in the health and fitness centre.

“The property is by far the best quality hotel in Ringwood and will withstand the test of time,” said Serene Capital CEO and CoFounder, Glen Boultwood, who expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership.

The opening of Rydges Ringwood represents EVT’s strategic commitment to expand the Rydges portfolio. EVT says its local expertise and operational capabilities were a key factor for Serene Capital and that EVT will ensure “agile responsiveness” to market dynamics.

“We are excited to work with Serene Capital, a relationship that prioritises trust and alignment,” Arundel said.

“This management agreement represents a strategic alignment of interests, bolstered by EVT’s strong distribution networks and loyalty programs.”

EVT is hopeful that a strong partnership with Serene Capital could lead to further collaborations in the future.

“We are eager to leverage these strengths to drive the success of Rydges Ringwood and explore future opportunities with Serene Capital,” Arundel added.

The 103-room property was constructed in 2021

The property features a mix of studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments

Rotorua takes action

James Doolan, Strategic Director, Hotel Council Aotearoa

HOTELIERS ARE SOMETIMES accused of being quick to criticise when things go wrong. However, one region deserving praise for trying to do things right is Rotorua. Following her election to the mayoralty in late-2022, Tania Tapsell is showing she fully understands tourism’s pivotal role driving economic prosperity in her region.

Rotorua has been welcoming tourists for more than 150 years. It was hard-hit during the Covid pandemic and consequent loss of all international visitors to New Zealand. The town’s famous boulevard of motels – Fenton Street – was turned over to social housing. Rotorua Lakes Council has extracted a promise from central Government to stop long-term use of motels for emergency housing by 2025.

Against the trend elsewhere, Council has increased investment into RotoruaNZ, the regional tourism organisation responsible for marketing the region to both international and domestic visitors. RotoruaNZ is working smarter as well, having recently announced a partnership with Auckland’s RTO and Auckland Airport to help attract Australian visitors.

Council has committed to further beautification of the town centre, which is well-timed following opening of the spectacular new Wai Ariki hot springs and spa on Rotorua’s lakefront.

Finally, owners of short-term rental accommodation (STRA) are now being charged a targeted rate if they offer properties for more than 60 nights per year. Industry prefers a national regulatory regime for STRA, but credit to Rotorua for taking action.

Rotorua has long-term aspirations to attract new hotel development and further elevate its tourism amenities and attractions. It is on track for success and well worth a visit.

Sheraton to debut in Papua New Guinea next year

Marriott International has signed a deal with Dynasty Development to introduce the Sheraton brand to Port Moresby.

MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL IS set to introduce its Sheraton Hotels and Resorts brand to Papua New Guinea under a deal with Dynasty Development Limited to convert an existing property in Port Moresby.

Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel and Suites is slated to open in August 2025, following the first stage of an extensive refurbishment project.

“With more than 425 hotels in 70 countries, Sheraton is Marriott International’s most global brand, and our latest signing in Port Moresby is a significant strategic advancement for the portfolio,” said Marriott International Vice President Hotel Development, Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific, Richard Crawford.

Dynasty Development Limited Director and shareholder, James Sze Yuan Lau, said

the brand debut marks a significant milestone for the group in Papua New Guinea.

“The current hotel, with its storied legacy and commitment to excellence, perfectly embodies the essence of Sheraton’s renowned hospitality,” he said. On completion, the hotel is expected to feature 378 keys – 268 premium rooms, 15 suites and 95 apartments – each with separate lounge, kitchen and dining areas. The property is set to offer Papua New Guinea’s largest and most modern conferencing facilities, standing at 2,500 sqm, as well as an executive Sheraton Club Lounge, two restaurants, a bar, café, infinity swimming pool with panoramic views and pool bar, a fitness centre and day spa.

Sheraton Port Moresby is expected to feature 378 keys

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40 YEARS IN A FLASH

After a 40-year career in the hotel industry, most recently serving as CEO of Accommodation Australia, Michael Johnson bids farewell.

When you are in the midst of your working life, it feels like it will go on forever.

But when the end actually arrives, you look back and it all seems to have gone by in a flash.

After 40 years working in hotels, and the last five years leading the peak industry bodies for accommodation, my time has come.

At the end of July, I officially hand over the reins of Accommodation Australia to the next generation. I plan to spend more time with family and friends and enjoy life on the other side of the check-in counter.

I do so happy in the knowledge that I leave our Association – and our industry at large – in a better position than when I found them.

I took on the role of NSW and National head of Tourism Accommodation Australia in May 2019. I saw it as a way to give back to the industry which had given me so much. I had no idea what a ride it would become.

My arrival at TAA coincided with disaster. In October 2019 bushfires began tearing up and down the east coast and they lasted for

months. Just as the smoke cleared, Covid-19 reared its head.

The global pandemic, and the travel bans, border closures, restrictions and fear that came with it, crippled our industry in a way we could not have imagined.

I learnt fast in those days and, to this day, I am proud of the work we did.

TAA worked tirelessly on local and national solutions. Our efforts to open up venues as soon as possible and gain extra support once we did were critical.

As most hotels sat empty and others became quarantine sites, it became abundantly clear to me that our industry needed a united voice. And out of the worst of years, came something great.

The process to merge TAA and the AAoA was slow and difficult at times. All up, it took three years, including a member’s vote, an ACCC ruling and reams of red tape. But looking back now – the effort was well worth it.

Accommodation Australia now has more than 1400-member properties – roughly 140,000 rooms – across Australia. We built a new association from scratch, we focused on putting members first, and together we led our industry back to recovery.

“I learnt fast in those days and, to this day, I am proud of the work we did.”

Michael Johnson

Every graph I look at now shows the accommodation sector trending in the right direction. There are still issues – with migration, staffing and short-term rental accommodation in particular – but there is so much to be optimistic about.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time representing the industry and I feel humbled to have been the first CEO of Accommodation Australia.

Thank you to all of you for your support and I wish you and our association the very best for the future.

Michael Johnson retires from his role as the first CEO of Accommodation Australia

we’ve dONe it again fiji

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PREMIUM HOSPITALITY

The Pullman brand in the Pacific region continues to be one of the fastest growing brands for Accor and one of the most in-demand brands for guests and owners.

From the first Pullman in the Pacific region – Pullman Sydney Olympic Park in 2008 – to now having 21 Pullman hotels and more than 4,000 rooms, Pullman is the largest and fastest growing premium brand across Australia and New Zealand. The brand has been embraced by the travelling public and has recently added exceptional new properties to the portfolio over the last 12 months.

Its versatility means owners are able to easily adapt the brand hallmarks into existing properties and reap the benefits of worldwide brand recognition and Accor’s unrivalled global ALL – Accor Live Limitless loyalty program.

In May this year, Accor announced a partnership with Red Panda Property to manage its first hotel project, a five-star $45m Pullman hotel in Launceston, that will redefine the hotel landscape in the Apple Isle. The 139-room hotel will be unlike any hotel in the city and will be home to bustling restaurants, bars, meeting and event spaces and a rooftop bar that promises to be a must visit venue for locals and travellers to the state.

In 2023, Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland Airport joined the Accor portfolio and is the first five-star hotel to open at the Auckland Airport precinct, being only 100m from the front entrance of the international terminal.

This exceptional hotel has quickly established itself as one of New Zealand’s most architecturally striking hotels. Designed by Warren and Mahoney, the hotel, which is shaped by the design concept ‘Sea to Sky’, is inspired by the journey of the people of Tainui following their

arrival at Manukau Harbour around 1350. This hotel is a first class example of Indigenous cultural design and is a standout addition to the Pullman network.

Having hotels not only in CBD locations, but also in suburban hubs, has been a game changer for the Pullman brand and given it a winning edge, particularly as there continues to be a lack of premium, upscale hotels in these types of locations.

Pullman Melbourne on the Park has undergone a major refurbishment to reflect its commitment to luxury and sophistication

Pullman is the largest and fastest growing premium brand across Australia and New Zealand

Having hotels in CBD locations and suburban hubs has been a game changer for the Pullman brand

Opening with much fanfare in 2023, Pullman Sydney Penrith has enjoyed huge success since it burst on to the scene. This hotel is a fantastic example of a new build hotel whose owners have really considered its location and purpose, which has in turn paid dividends. The hotel’s Western Sydney Conference Centre is unlike anything in the area and has been a huge drawcard for the property, as has the restaurant and bar facilities. Being located across the road from Penrith Stadium has ensured a bustling environment come major sporting days.

In Melbourne, Pullman Melbourne on the Park’s refurbishment is a great example of the Pullman brand’s commitment to luxury and sophistication. The hotel’s new Executive Lounge provides the perfect setting to unwind and admire the sweeping views of the MCG and the city skyline while enjoying Accor’s award-winning hospitality. Additionally, the state-of-the-art meeting and event spaces have been modernised to cater to corporate gatherings, making the hotel a top choice for business travellers and conference organisers.

Accor also recently announced a new Pullman for Hamilton City in New Zealand, which is on track to open in 2026. The 191-room hotel will arise from an extensive retro-fit and transformation of Hamilton’s tallest building – the current Mistry Centre. Pullman Hamilton will include underground car parking, restaurants and day spa facilities as well as a private rooftop VIP lounge.

As followers of the brand would know, the Pullman name was established in 1867 and renowned for luxury rail travel. In October 2023, the Group was overjoyed to open Pullman Hill Street in Singapore – the

first Pullman in the world that through interior design and architecture pays tribute to the storied train travel past.

Designed by Singapore’s DP Architects, the hotel is the first property that translates the George Pullman sleeping car past to a modern hotel context. Built from the ground-up with cues from its surroundings, there are creative nods to Pullman’s origins – from the guestrooms that are styled after private train cabins to polished fixtures and brass linings, to the vintage luggage installations in the lobby. This is truly a hotel to behold.

Also in Singapore, Pullman Singapore Orchard Road is a standout example of a hotel refurbishment that carries all the brand hallmarks of a Pullman. Located in the heart of Singapore’s bustling Orchard Road, this hotel seamlessly blends contemporary design with comfort and practicality, with state-of-the-art technology, premium business facilities, plush public areas and spacious well thought out guestrooms, meaning both business and leisure guests have everything they need for a productive and relaxing stay.

The Pullman brand’s impressive expansion and continued success across the Asia Pacific region underscores its versatility and appeal to both guests and owners. The brand’s ability to integrate seamlessly into existing properties while offering the benefits of global recognition and an award-winning loyalty program has fuelled its growth and as the brand continues to evolve, Accor remains committed to delivering exceptional experiences and maintaining its position as the leader in the premium hospitality market. n

Two existing hotels at Stamford Bridge will be unified, renovated and rebranded under co-living brand, Lyf

Larger than Lyf

The Ascott Limited has scored a major global branding deal with Chelsea Football Club.

THE ASCOTT LIMITED has unveiled a major global alliance with the world-renowned Chelsea Football Club which sees the lodging business win management of the hotels at the club’s iconic Stamford Bridge football ground in London and collaborate on exclusive hospitality experiences globally.

The two existing hotels at Stamford Bridge –the Millennium and Copthorne Hotels, which currently stand at 232 keys – will be unified under a major renovation and rebranding project to reflect Ascott’s co-living brand Lyf, marking the largest Lyf property by key count globally to date.

Lyf Stamford Bridge is slated to open in the second half of 2025 with the takeover expected later this year and will serve as the anchor hospitality showcase as part of a multi-year strategic partnership with Ascott as the Official Global Hotels Partner of Chelsea FC.

The property transformation will see all public areas, meeting spaces and rooms refreshed with space optimised in line with the Lyf brand, with a special focus on game day hospitality packages and experiential stays that reflect “the beautiful game”.

In 2023, travellers from Europe contributed to about 16% of Ascott’s global hospitality business and the company has set a target to almost double this figure to 30% by 2028, placing Europe as a top three source market for the business.

Speaking to media at a press conference at Stamford Bridge on Monday July 8, Ascott and CLI Lodging Chief Executive Officer, Kevin Goh, said the partnership will help Ascott tap into Chelsea’s 600 million global fan base.

“This collaboration with Chelsea is very much a part of our growth ambitions to bring authentic experiences to our guests, and at the same time also grow our brands and presence in Europe,” said Goh.

“Europe is a very important source market for us. A large part of our presence is in Asia, but a lot of our guests are from Europe, so having a brand presence and properties in Europe, and this collaboration with Chelsea FC

The Lyf brand is expanding in Europe with Lyf East Frankfurt’s recent opening marking the brand’s debut in Germany

is going to bring us a lot more business from this part of the world and vice versa.”

As the Official Global Hotels Partner for the next four seasons, Ascott and Chelsea FC will collaborate on a wide range of ‘money-can’t-buy’ experiences for members of the Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) loyalty programme worldwide.

Such experiences will include exclusive access to matches at Stamford Bridge and VIP visits to The Blues Cobham Training Ground, where Ascott will manage curated stays at the former club owner’s residence, a two-bedroom country cottage nestled discreetly within the grounds.

Discover your new world of opportunity with Philips hospitality displays

Whether it is the hotel TVs for your guests to enjoy in their rooms or strategically placed signage and interactive screens around your establishment, Philips hospitality displays are designed to extend your brand, and your opportunities, as well as their experience.

THANK YOU TO OUR 2024 PARTNERS AND SPONSORS

SAVE THE DATE: AHICE RETURNS TO FIJI ON JUNE 24-26, 2025

2024 PARTNERS AND SPONSORS

BULA Fiji

AHICE FIJI ISLANDS INVESTMENT IN TOURISM SUMMIT DRAWS OVER 330 DELEGATES AS THE NATION EXPERIENCES PHENOMENAL TOURISM GROWTH. JAMES  WILKINSON REPORTS.

Abumper crowd of over 330 leading owners, investors, operators, suppliers and advisors were at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa in early July for the 2024 AHICE Fiji Islands Investment in Tourism Summit, where record performance numbers were the talk of the major conference.

If you thought Fiji was a hot destination for global travellers, you’d definitely be right. Then again, it’s even hotter than you thought.

Compared to 2019, Fiji’s Average Daily Rate (ADR) is 71% higher than it was in 2019 at AU$461, according to STR’s Regional Director Matt Burke in his exclusive AHICE outlook, and that is resulting in record results for owners and operators across the nation.

That price puts Fiji only behind Hawaii (at AU$689) as the second highest ADR across Asia Pacific and is driving a record level of investment interest in the nation.

The latest STR data for May 2024, also shows ADR up almost 9% compared to the same month in 2023, while occupancy has moderated somewhat.

There’s also no such thing as a low season anymore, with the lowest ADR at AU$417 in February 2024 and rising up to AU$658 in July 2023, which represents nothing short of incredible numbers.

“We don’t have a low season in Fiji,” said Tourism Fiji CEO, Brent Hill. “We have a peak season and a shoulder season.”

Burke also looked at the global performance numbers, showing Australasia (3% growth) and Asia (4% growth) are well ahead of China and North America with limited growth.

A huge focus market for Accor, Fiji is now top of the list of the best performing markets across the region, according to the company’s Chief Operating Officer PME – Pacific, Adrian Williams.

“Fiji is the top performing market for Accor,” he said. “Accor is proud to have a long-standing

Delegates had the opportunity to tour a number of new hotels

history in Fiji, with our commitment to this beautiful nation growing stronger every year.

“With some of the world’s friendliest people it’s no wonder it’s held close to the heart of travellers from Australia, New Zealand and the US.

“With our four hotels – Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa, Novotel Nadi, Mercure Nadi, and Novotel Suva – we are deeply committed to offering unparalleled hospitality experiences.

“Our recent and upcoming refurbishments, such as the transformation of Novotel Suva Lami Bay and the planned upgrade of Novotel Nadi later this year, highlight our dedication to enhancing the guest experience and creating unforgettable holiday moments,” he said.

Williams was also excited about the upcoming six-star Vatu Talei project located next to the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa.

“We are incredibly excited with the developments at Vatu Talei, which promises

to bring a whole new level of hospitality to the country, and we look forward to building on our investment in Fiji,” he said.

Hill is also excited about what’s happening across the nation and was thrilled to see AHICE debut with such strong numbers.

“Tourism in Fiji is booming,” he said. “After the devastation of Covid, the recovery of the tourism industry in Fiji has been rapid and welcomed.

“With tourism accounting for 38% of Fiji’s economy, it is such a vital sector to our country. Since reopening, Fiji’s tourism sector has seen record volumes of visitor arrivals, in particular from our key source markets of Australia, NZ, North America and China.

“We have also seen incredible growth in yield (Average Daily Rate and RevPAR) and occupancy.

“This has led to our Deputy Prime Minister declaring Fiji needs 5000 new hotel beds to cater for demand.

“When factoring in the strong growth and profitability of the national carrier, Fiji Airways, and their desire to open more routes in 202425, the future for tourism is bright. Now is definitely the right time for investment in Fiji.

“The existing product set of resorts and boutique island resorts, enables Fiji to welcome close to 1 million tourists annually, but there is opportunity right across the spectrum – from large-scale resorts, to boutique luxury and business and conference hotels.

“Demand is due to strong and consistent marketing by Tourism Fiji and Fiji Airways across the globe, coupled with increased airline capacity, and the accessibility of Fiji –just 3.5hrs from Sydney, and with brand new modern aircraft such as the four A350s of Fiji Airways’ fleet, connecting to 15 countries, delivering a consistent, premium product.

“Fiji continues to be loved the world over for the world class accommodation, great food and drink options, beautiful weather and classic sun, sand and surf.

“However, what really makes Fiji stand out is our people and our culture. Fijians are naturally hospitable and almost always on leaving, guests comment on the Fijian’s warmth and happiness. Which is why the slogan for tourism in Fiji is ‘where happiness comes naturally’.

“The low cost of labour, incredible locations and access to nature, provide opportunities for investors.

“Sustainability remains at our core – our natural resources remain pristine, and we want to preserve this for generations to come,” he said.

Hill said AHICE was the ideal event to bring together investors and operators to help boost tourism in the nation.

“AHICE Fiji provides an opportunity for investors, brands, landowners and the broader industry to meet and hear more of the incentives, ease-of-doing-business initiatives and appeal of setting up in Fiji.

“In a world where tourists are increasingly seeking authentic, meaningful travel, with easy access, Fiji continues to tick the box,” he said.

Fiji Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Viliame Gavoka, said he was thrilled AHICE was being held in Fiji in his keynote opening address.

“This year’s summit is not just a forum for discussion, it is a call to action,” he said. “And we invite investors, both local and international, to join us in unlocking the full potential of our tourism industry.

“Our national airline Fiji Airways just weeks after joining the OneWorld alliance as a fullfledged member, will adopt American Airlines’ AAdvantage program as its official frequent flyer scheme.

“We are also looking at new direct routes to the US, which ultimately means more visitors to Fiji. So, there are great things happening.

“As demand surges, so does the need for new investments, particularly in hotel capacity. Whether they are 5-star brands, smaller boutiques, or those based in communities. This is where we welcome domestic and international investments,” Gavoka said.

The Minister made an important Government commitment too – making investments possible.

“In the upcoming budget, we are extending the Short Life Investment Package tax holiday to investors who acquire existing hotels and undertake renovations and refurbishments of more than FJ$50 million,” he said.

Fijian culture was at the forefront with an enthralling performance to open the conference

“We have increased our marketing budget through Tourism Fiji and will continue to strategically drive reforms to make it easier for you, our investors, to invest in Fiji and the Fijian brand.”

Gavoka also reaffirmed the Government’s national sustainable tourism framework.

“In recent years, we have witnessed remarkable transformations within our tourism industry,” he said.

“From the development of world-class resorts and eco-tourism projects to the enhancement of our cultural and historical sites, our commitment to elevating the tourism experience is evident.

“These advancements are not just about attracting visitors; they are about creating lasting impressions that turn tourists into lifelong ambassadors of our country.

“However, to sustain and expand this growth, strategic investments are crucial.

“Last month, we launched Fiji’s National Sustainable Tourism Framework which charts our course toward responsible growth.

“So, we invite investments that harmonize with our environment, our people and our cultures,” he said.

Gavoka also told the 330-strong audience the Government was committed to investing in Fiji’s second largest island of Vanua Levu.

“We are seeing some major investments in and around Viti Levu – which is great. But there is also Vanua Levu, our second largest island, that has enormous potential,” he said.

“Government is making an initial investment of US$200 million over the next 10 years. This will go directly on improving essential services and infrastructure that will pave the way for private sector investments.

“It is my hope that one day soon, we will be hosting you all in Vanua Levu for this Summit.”

CONFERENCES

Gavoka parting words were also powerful ones for the many investors in the room.

“I invite you to seize this moment. Now’s a good time as any to invest in Fiji’s thriving tourism sector,” he said.

On the tourism outlook panel, a lot of talk was about the growth of Fiji Airways, South Sea Cruises and demand from key markets like Australia and New Zealand.

Fiji Airways’ Senior Manager Tourism and Customer Operations, James Pridgeon, said the carrier was looking at new United States destinations to further grow the North American market, while services from Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Japan and Hong Kong were all performing well.

There was also excitement about Fiji Airways joining the award-winning American Airlines AAdvantage travel rewards program in the coming year, which will offer members a host of benefits as well as earning and redemption capabilities when traveling on either airline.

Pridgeon said the loyalty partnership marks a significant milestone, bringing together two renowned carriers to offer new benefits to millions of travellers.

The collaboration with American Airlines follows another major milestone for Fiji Airways, with the announcement it will become the 15th full member of the oneworld alliance in 2025.

In a popular fireside chat, Pridgeon also spoke about Fiji Airways’ global awards, key Australian routes, sports sponsorships and changes to the Nadi Airport offering.

Air New Zealand’s General Manager of Global Sales, Tim Swan talked about the carrier’s massive July school holiday airlift, with 760,000 customers travelling domestically and internationally over the period.

He said a further 274,000 Air New Zealand travellers are jetting off overseas over the

“Tourism in Fiji is booming.”

Brent Hill, Tourism Fiji

period, with the Australian cities of Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane emerging as the most popular international school holiday destinations, with Singapore and Fiji also proving to be popular destinations.

In a highly informative outlook session, JLL New Zealand Hotels and Hospitality Director, Nick Thompson, said Fiji was generating a significant amount of global attention thanks to the phenomenal performance numbers.

“When compared with most other markets, Fiji’s investment fundamentals remain highly attractive in the current environment,” he said.

“With an extremely low interest rate environment, low inflation, yields still relatively low, and generally high liquidity in the market (through growing offshore remittances), Fiji is primed for further local and offshore capital.

“Traditionally, Fiji has attracted substantial investment from Japan, China, and the United States, while also maintaining a strong local investor presence, and this is expected to expand given the growing interest from new regions, especially from investors out of Australia and New Zealand.”

Marriott International Vice President – Hotel Development, Australia, NZ, and Pacific, Richard Crawford, also revealed the company was in talks to add over 1,000 rooms in Fiji over the coming years.

“As the largest hotel operator in Fiji, Marriott International is committed to maximising the performance of our existing assets, whilst expanding our footprint with new brands and new locations across the country,” he said.

“It is undeniably an exciting moment in time for Fiji’s tourism industry, due to a whole-of-industry commitment to growth and excellence, meaningful incentives and support from government, and a surge in traveller appetite for the destination.

“These forces are generating unprecedented investor confidence in Fiji’s tourism industry and have been the catalyst for multiple negotiations that Marriott is currently engaged in with hotel developers.

“We expect to make a number of exciting announcements in the coming months, which we are confident will be welcome news for all Fijians and for our 200 million Marriott Bonvoy members who are seeking more choice and unforgettable experiences,” Crawford said.

Another popular fireside chat was with Outrigger Hospitality Group President and CEO, Jeff Wagoner, who flew in from Hawai’i for AHICE Fiji.

“Fiji is a truly amazing place; its natural beauty and the warmth of its people make it a favourite vacation destination, contributing to consistently high occupancy rates,” he said.

“Additionally, the country’s strategic location, close to both Hawai‘i and Australia, enhances its appeal for Outrigger.

“With two thriving Outrigger resorts in Fiji, we remain open to exploring new opportunities, confident in the promising future of this vibrant destination.

“Our commitment to the Fijian community is unwavering, as evidenced by our initiatives in ocean conservation, coral planting and partnerships with local schools and nonprofit organisations,” Wagoner said.

Hilton has several projects coming online soon and the chain’s Regional Director –Development, Australasia, Tushar Raniga is excited about bringing more brands into the market.

“AHICE Fiji’s arrival presents an exceptional opportunity for Hilton, as we eagerly join industry leaders from across the Asia Pacific to foster collaboration and celebrate Fiji’s vibrant hospitality sector,” he said.

“These gatherings truly showcase the essence of our industry’s spirit.

“Looking ahead, our development plans include the anticipated opening of Hilton Garden Inn Suva in Q3 2025, a significant waterfront project in partnership with Carpenters Properties,” he said.

“This venture reflects our commitment to expanding our footprint in Fiji, offering 178 guest rooms, dining options, and extensive amenities.

The warm welcome from the Fijian people shows why it is a major vacation destination

Over 330 people were in attendance for the first AHICE in Fiji

“Additionally, we are enthusiastic about exploring luxury segments, potentially introducing Waldorf Astoria or Conrad hotels to Fiji, aiming to enhance our presence in this dynamic market,” Raniga said.

The AHICE Fiji Islands Investment in Tourism Summit kicked off with networking events at the new Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort and Spa and popular Sheraton Fiji Golf

Resort and Spa which attracted most of the 330-strong crowd along.

Across the program, there were also panel sessions spanning operations, investment, food and beverage, sustainability, development, design, build and more.

The AHICE Fiji Islands Investment in Tourism Summit was Presented by Fiji Airways, hosted by HM magazine, Co-Hosted

There were a number of networking opportunities across the two-day conference

by Tourism Fiji and Investment Fiji, alongside Principal Partners Accor, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International, Tappoo and Travel + Leisure.

Looking to next year, the 2025 AHICE Fiji Islands Investment in Tourism Summit will be held on June 24-25, 2025. n

https://ahiceconference.com/fiji/

ISLANDhopping

IT’S AN EXCITING TIME FOR FIJI AIRWAYS, WITH THE CARRIER ACQUIRING MORE AIRBUS A350S AND WINNING MAJOR AWARDS FROM ORGANISATIONS ACROSS THE GLOBE. TO FIND OUT WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE BRILLIANT BOUTIQUE AIRLINE, JAMES WILKINSON SAT DOWN WITH FIJI AIRWAYS MANAGING DIRECTOR AND CEO, ANDRE VILJOEN.

Andre, thanks for your time. You now have your 3rd and 4th A350-900s in the fleet. The plane has spectacular range. Which new destinations are you considering to send the jets to?

The new A350 aircrafts have allowed for an additional 30,000 seats per month across our network. These aircraft service our popular destinations including North American long-haul routes, as well as Australia, New Zealand and Hong Kong, providing greater travel options and connections for Australians.

We’re exploring growth opportunities in North America and flying to further destinations. There are numerous options on the table at the moment and we are conducting due diligence to see which destination makes the best business case for expanding our network.

Which existing destinations will also get an up-gauge of aircraft to the A350?

The new A350s fly to the following existing destinations: Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, Hong Kong, San Francisco and Vancouver. This will increase capacity on these flights by 30,000 seats per month.

This also frees-up A330s. Where could we see them soon? I know they are now scheduled for Christchurch, alongside additional Auckland flights as well as Melbourne.

Australia, New Zealand and the US are our most popular tourist destinations, therefore where possible we operate our larger aircraft so we can increase capacity, welcoming more travellers onboard and transporting them to paradise.

You have also added a third Sydney flight with the 737 MAX. Tell us more about your plans for Australia, including potential new destinations?

We’re (Fiji Airways) exploring several additional destinations in Australia. Our current schedule is 14 to 18 weekly flights from Sydney, 10 weekly flights from Melbourne, eight weekly flights from Brisbane, three weekly flights from Canberra and two weekly flights from Adelaide.

You have just launched Noumea, hot on the back of the new Canberra flights. Where else are you looking at in the South Pacific?

We have the most comprehensive network in the South Pacific and the Noumea flights are a demonstration of our commitment to connect this region to the world. As with the rest of the world, we are exploring a number of potential new routes in the South Pacific.

When we last spoke, you flagged a desire to go double daily on Los Angeles – how are these plans looking?

We are currently operating daily flights to Los Angeles on our A350 aircraft. We will continue to look at the demand and forward bookings to determine if we can increase the frequency of these flights.

Fiji Airways’ Andre Viljoen onboard the Airbus A350

Congrats on the 5-star rating for a second year in a row too. How significant is this award?

This achievement is no small feat, especially for a national airline of our size, located in the remote South Pacific.

We have worked tirelessly to maintain the highest standards of service and safety, and we are thrilled to once again be recognised as an APEX Five Star Major Airline, especially being one of just ten carriers to be honoured with the award for 2024.

As you know, reaching a milestone is hard-work, but maintaining it is another story. This shows that Fiji Airways is continuously and consistently enhancing its products and services.

You have been building up Fiji Airways into one of the world’s best boutique airlines. You have to be proud of what yourself and the team have achieved?

We are immensely proud of our recent accolades and the international recognition our National Airline has received. It’s a testament to the dedication, grit and tenacity of our team to continue to innovate and provide the highest standard of offerings to our guests.

We have made great strides as an airline over the recent years and it shows our strength and ability to bounce back following the pandemic. I believe it’s because we bring our genuine FIjian Hospitality to every customer perception point.

I also want to point out that the team at Fiji Airways is the reason for our success, they are some of the most motivated and ambitious colleagues I have had the pleasure to work with. Their talents are on-par with the best in the business - if not above par.

Thanks for having our Wayfarer TV show on the planes. You’ve also been upping the IFE ante with new big partnerships. What’s the latest?

We have just announced several major sports sponsorships for 2024, including welcoming the Melbourne Storm as a new Australian partner, marking our first NRL partnership. We also have sponsorships with the LA Galaxy and closer to home, Fiji based Kaviti SIlktails and increasing our sponsorship for the Fijian Drua.

In terms of new in-flight additions, we have recently launched Disney and HBO as part of our in-flight entertainment, meaning guests will experience the best entertainment offerings in the region, as well as wellness content such as guided meditation, breathwork and exercises that are accessible throughout the flight.

Additionally, we are introducing IFE streaming services to our regional flights on the ATR aircraft and our Boeing 737 next generation aircraft. Guests can now stream the full suite of our inflight entertainment catalogue direct to their personal devices, while Business Class guests will get a new generation iPad Pro for their use during the flight.

You’ve also added more in-resort check-ins. Tell us about this. We now offer resort check-in at multiple locations including the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa, Sheraton Fiji Golf and Beach Resort, InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa and most recently the Hilton Fiji Beach Resort and Spa. This allows guests to check into their International Fiji Airways flights (excluding those to the US) at the resort, with their bags tagged and transported directly to the airport, while they have more time to enjoy Fiji.

I’m looking forward to announcing more properties with resort check-in very soon.

What’s next for Fiji Airways? More A350s? More 737s?

Where do you see the airline in another five years?

We will continue to offer exceptional service and revamp our onboard experiences for travellers across safety, well-being, sustainability, and inclusiveness. We have set ourselves a target of achieving world class status and it continues to be our North Star as we endeavour to join an elite group of airlines recognised as the best in the world.

As an airline, our customers and travellers come first so we want to be able to offer them greater connections and options for visiting friends and family or holidays. Therefore, we are always exploring options to operate longer sectors and increasing our network across North America, Asia and the Pacific.

Fiji Airways has one of the world’s youngest and most modern fleet of 21 aircraft that service our network of 26 destinations. For the time-being, this suits our needs adequately but we continue to plan and strategise for the future in order to ensure the sustained growth of the airline.

As the National Airline, we are also focussed on ensuring that the Fijian people, the tourism sector and the local economy, reaps the maximum benefits because we fly for Fiji. Post COVID-19, we are now returning to a number of initiatives that we championed to help local communities. Our successes must be shared with the country in a tangible and meaningful manner. n

fijiairways.com

Fiji offers a diverse range of investment opportunities within its tourism sector

IFiji's

VIBRANT FUTURE

The outlook is bright for tourism in the Fiji Islands, writes Investment Fiji Chief Executive Officer, Kamal Chetty.

ts pristine beaches, rich culture, supportive infrastructure, and favorable policies create an attractive environment for businesses seeking both profit and pleasure.

And with Fiji’s bula spirits, our hospitality can rival that of any major key player in the globe.

TOURISM – BACKBONE OF FIJI

Fiji’s tourism sector makes up 40% of its GDP and it is integrated into numerous sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, retail and services and more.

In the first half of the year, visitor arrivals grew by 7.0% to 447,155 visitors led by higher arrivals mostly from New Zealand, the US, China, Australia, and the Pacific Island Countries as arrivals from our traditional source market, Australia, have improved according to the Reserve Bank of Fiji’s Economic Review for July, 2024.

Moreover, the anticipated new direct flight route linking Fiji to the greater US territory is expected to further stimulate tourism in Fiji as stated by the bank.

Fiji itself is set to see almost 1 million visitor arrivals in 2024, and at Investment Fiji we see an opportunity for investors to capitalize on this.

This growth is undoubtedly positive; however, it has placed immense pressure on the existing accommodation infrastructure.

Peak seasons, such as summer and the festive period, often witness full occupancy rates, highlighting the urgent need for additional room inventory to meet the growing demand, and this is where we come in.

With the demand of tourists increasing, the organization is focusing its resources to attract investment into these areas in order to address the influx.

Right now, Fiji has a total of 1594 rooms under construction which is expected to be complete between 2024 to 2026, leaving a total of 4800 rooms, however there’s an urgency for more room inventory.

INVESTMENT FIJI – OUR ROLE

Investment Fiji is a government statutory body that works closely with the Fiji Government and its line Ministry, which is the Ministry for Trade, Co-operatives, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communication to attract high yielding yet sustainable investments into our country.

Our key mandate is to increase our export capabilities as well as provide employment opportunities and foster a positive economic growth for our country.

And with the support of the government, Investment Fiji also facilitates meetings with established businesses to address issues that hinder or set back ease of doing business.

The Fiji government recognizes the importance of tourism and is actively encouraging investment in the accommodation sector, through Investment Fiji.

There are various incentives, such as tax breaks, land leases, and streamlined approval processes, which support our initiatives of being available to attract investors.

Our collaboration with the government and relevant stakeholders in Fiji as well as abroad allows us to provide valuable support and guidance to our investors throughout their investment journey.

The organization is working on key markets and opportunities for the growth of our tourism sector, these include Accommodation Shortage, Upgrading of Airports, Tourism Infrastructure, High End Retail, Sports Tourism, Medical Tourism Retirement Village as well as developing the industry in our second major island, Vanua Levu.

WHAT FIJI OFFERS?

Fiji offers a diverse range of investment opportunities within its tourism sector, as the country has numerous hotel developments and expansions currently underway.

There are opportunities in Fiji for Luxury Resort Development that offer high-class Five (and more) star services with world-class amenities that are more focused at providing high-end experience for tourists.

There are also numerous opportunities to offer Ecotourism and Adventure Tourism as well as MICE Tourism, that are catered to a more exclusive list of visitors focused towards events and experience.

Fiji is undergoing transformation in its tourism sector in itself with investors having already shown confidence in Fiji’s tourism potential, which is reflected in several highprofile projects recently announced or are under construction.

Numerous projects are under construction, such as Vatu Talei: The Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa, Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa, Westin Denarau Island Resort & Spa, Hilton Garden Inn, Suva, Wananavu Beach Resort, Cathay Hotel, Paramount Hotel, Damodar North Pte Ltd, Wyndham Garden as well as the Orange Coast Investment Pte Limited trading as Grand Eastern Hotel.

With recent announcements and upcoming projects, including Hari Punja and Sons Limited that is investing in a multi-milliondollar new hotel development, managed by The Rydges, scheduled for completion by later in the year.

Days Inn by Wyndham, Radisson Blu Mirage, One and Only, Namuka Bay Resort, Nalagi apartments, Yatu Lau and Damodar Pte Limited are a few key players that are keeping the ball running as these developments are set to provide more opportunities and experience for our visitors.

And this only boosts our business confidence to have major investment being undertaken in an industry that still to this day offers a unique experience to visitors.

Events such as AHICE Fiji are the perfect opportunity for Investment Fiji and its stakeholders to show that we truly mean business.

AHICE EXPERIENCE

We started this event with a bang with numerous networking sessions and site tours such as showcasing the new Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort and Spa.

The opportunities gained from such platforms provides Fiji the opportunity to

showcase its commitment to growing the tourism sector, and how integral it is for our country and its people.

Expanding room capacity and meeting the increasing demands of tourism while maintaining high standards of service and sustainability are the key drivers of our commitment.

AHICE Fiji Islands Investment in Tourism Summit served as an invaluable platform for our country where stakeholders, investors, and policymakers convened to set the course for our tourism industry’s growth.

And we did receive key interest from numerous leads keen to develop within the sector.

These events enable the country to strategize effectively, forge international partnerships, and implement initiatives that complement our economy and visitor experiences.

The Fiji government has implemented robust policies and incentives aimed at attracting investment and facilitating business growth, with major players such as Google, Alibaba and Starlink reinforcing the positive mood of investor confidence.

And we understand the importance of creating a conducive environment for investors, ensuring transparency, efficiency, and regulatory support that streamline processes and mitigate risks.

The Fiji Government is focused on driving private sector investments by providing a very conducive environment that gives confidence to domestic and foreign investors.

A dynamic private sector that invests, innovates and creates jobs is one that could survive the trials and turbials of global impacts.

So, come to Fiji and see for yourself the gold mine of opportunities that exist, and be assured that Investment Fiji is ready to help you every step of your journey.

Join us in shaping the future of Fiji’s tourism industry. n

investmentfiji.org.fj

Investment Fiji Chief Executive Officer Kamal Chetty

Meet in the Maldives

AHICE MALDIVES HOTEL INVESTMENT SUMMIT MAKES ITS DEBUT IN AUGUST 2024.

Soneva Founder and CEO, Sonu Shivdasani, is set to headline the upcoming AHICE Maldives Hotel Investment Summit, set to take place at Crossroads Maldives on Wednesday, August 7.

The launch of the AHICE Maldives Hotel Investment Summit follows in the footsteps of the highly-successful AHICE Fiji Islands Investment in Tourism Summit, held at Sofitel Fiji Beach Resort and Spa on July 3-4 in front of over 330 industry executives.

The AHICE Maldives Hotel Investment Summit, hosted by HM and Founding Partner JLL, is expected to be held in front of a crowd of over 150 for the event’s launch and will have panels and Q&A sessions focused on investment, operations and development across the Maldives, which is firmly one of the world’s most in demand nations for new hotels and existing assets.

Headlining the speaker program is Shivdasani, who opened his first resort Soneva Fushi, in 1995 with wife Eva.

In the same year that Soneva Fushi welcomed its first guests, Sonu and Eva also launched Six Senses Resorts and Spas, followed by the Evason hotels group in 1997, with properties across Southeast Asia and Europe.

By 2011, Six Senses had become a globally recognised luxury spa and resorts chain, with 26 resorts and 41 spas.

The management contracts for both companies were sold in 2012 as part of Sonu and Eva’s ‘One Owner, One Operator, One Philosophy’ strategy under Soneva.

Alongside Shivdasani, other key speakers include the Maldives Minister for Tourism, Ibrahim Faisal, JLL Hotels and Hospitality Group CEO Asia-Pacific, Nihat Ercan, Prospect Hotel Advisors Partner and Asset Manager, Rohan Gopaldas, Ares Asia Managing Director Kieran Bestall, THSA Managing Director, Rodger Powell and Outrigger Hospitality Group President, Jeff Wagoner, who is flying in from Honolulu, Hawaii, to speak at the event.

“We are excited to be expanding our AHICE brand to the Maldives and hosting an event that will boost hotel investment and tourism

to the nation,” said AHICE Global Conferences Group President, James Wilkinson.

“The Maldives is high on the list for hotel investment from investors across the globe and we are excited to be launching our all-new event with so many high-calibre speakers.”

The event will also include a number of networking events, site tours of hotels and property showcases

The AHICE Maldives Hotel Investment Summit is the sixth global event for the group, with the AHICE Far East Asia Hotel Industry Conference and Exhibition launching on September 5 at the Tokyo Edition – Toranomon, taking the Asia-Pacific list of events to seven and close to 4,000 delegates across the portfolio.

A limited number of tickets are on sale for the AHICE Maldives Hotel Investment Summit. n

For any sponsorship and ticket package requests, contact James Wilkinson on jwilkinson@intermedia.com.au ahiceconference.com/maldives

Sonu Shivdasani will speak at the inaugural AHICE Maldives Hotel Investment Summit

HOTELS OF THE FUTURE

IN HM ’S 2024 TECHNOLOGY OUTLOOK, EXPERTS ACROSS DATA, TECHNOLOGY AND AUTOMATION SHARE THEIR INSIGHTS INTO THE KEY TRENDS IMPACTING OPERATIONS AND GUEST EXPERIENCE AND THE TOOLS THAT WILL PROPEL THE INDUSTRY INTO THE NEXT GENERATION.

TURN BACK TIME

When it comes to must-have tech products, everything old is new –and improved – again.

It’s no secret we’re living in an age of retro revival. Classic trends are making a comeback, lending cutting-edge technology a bit of old-world charm. These days, the best products blend a sense of nostalgia with contemporary functionality, delivering an experience that offers the best of both worlds – old meets new, designed just for you.

ICONIC DESIGN, MODERN FUNCTIONALITY: RUARK R1 MK4

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the R1 MK4 radiates timeless elegance. Its sleek, compact form resembles vintage radios, and its handcrafted wooden cabinet adds a touch of sophistication to any space.

But don’t be fooled by the retro design; the R1MK4 packs a modern punch, boasting a quality Bluetooth receiver, USB-C charge and playback port, switchable auxiliary input, and headphone output. Special features of custom hospitality firmware with special features including display of the hotel name on the display. Available in three colours.

GOOD THINGS, SMALL PACKAGES: TIVOLI – MODEL ONE+

Say hello to the Tivoli Model One+ – the classic you love, now with a DAB+ twist. Merging vintage vibes with modern tech, it boasts an analog-inspired dial and fuss-free controls for presets, brightness, and alarms. Ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate both style and substance, the Model One+ promises a little something for everyone. Enjoy your

favourite playlists with crystal-clear clarity, or switch to FM radio to tune in to local broadcasts.

Its built-in antenna ensures reliable reception wherever you go, making sure you never miss a beat. Bluetooth connectivity as well as class leading sound quality. If you’re a big believer in less is more, the simple design of the Model One+ has got you covered. Available in three real timber veneer finishes.

TURN BACK THE CLOCK, TURN UP THE SOUND: MARSHALL ACTON III

What do Jimi Hendrix, Slash and AC/DC all have in common? They were addicted to Marshall amplifiers. Own your own piece of rock and roll history with the Marshall Acton III. Small but mighty, the Acton III reimagines the legendary heritage of the Marshall brand in a powerful Bluetooth speaker. Available in original Black, vintage Cream or relaxed Brown, the Acton III includes Built-in Dynamic Loudness, ensuring an immersive listening experience without disturbing your neighbours. Perfect for creating a personal concert-like ambiance without leaving your hotel room.

“The retro revival is confirmation of what I’ve long suspectedeverything really was better back in the day! Swisstrade is excited to range a collection of vintage audio products that stylishly bridge the gap between past and present,” – Swisstrade Principle, Peter Weingartner. n

Get in touch to explore the range and see how nostalgia meets innovation. swisstrade.com.au

The Tivoli – Model One+ shaking up hotel amenities

The Ruark R1 MK4’s sleek, compact form resembles vintage radios

The Marshall Acton III ensures an immersive listening experience

TECHNOLOGY

Generative AI voice agents are set to become mainstream (This image was created using generative AI)

AN EYE ON AI

PRO-INVEST GROUP DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL, DATA AND TECHNOLOGY, HOWARD PHUNG, DISCUSSES THE IMPACT OF GENERATIVE AI ON THE FUTURE OF HOTELS.

The hospitality industry is no stranger to technological advancements, and Generative AI (Gen AI) is poised to be the next big leap forward. With its ability to mimic human-like interactions and analyse vast amounts of data, Gen AI promises to revolutionise hotel operations, enhance customer experiences, and streamline back-end processes. Let’s explore how Gen AI can impact hotels in the short term and beyond.

ENHANCING CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT

In the short term, hotels can leverage basic integrations of Gen AI to significantly enhance customer engagement. Imagine a scenario where guests interact with a virtual concierge powered by Gen AI. This AI can provide personalised recommendations, assist with bookings, answer queries, and troubleshoot real-time issues. Such enhancements improve the guest experience and allow staff to focus on more complex tasks requiring a human touch.

Recent advances in Gen AI have highlighted its impressive capabilities in handling human-like text-to-speech interactions. These improvements mean virtual assistants can now converse more naturally and fluidly with guests, making AI-driven interactions more intuitive and satisfying.

EQUIPPING THE WORKFORCE

One of Gen AI’s highest impacts in the short term is equipping the workforce with tools that complement and enhance their current

“Gen AI promises to revolutionise hotel operations.”

Howard Phung, Pro-invest Group

roles. Gen AI can transform hotel staff’s operations by aiding and accelerating their access to problem-solving. For instance, front desk personnel can use AI-powered systems to quickly resolve guest issues, housekeeping can receive optimised schedules and task lists, and management can gain insights into operational efficiency and guest satisfaction through realtime data analytics.

GEN AI CAPABILITIES

The potential of Gen AI has been demonstrated in several showcase projects internally, highlighting its capability to handle complex tasks traditionally managed by humans. These case studies span various applications, from AI-driven customer service chatbots to sophisticated data analysis tools that provide

Room Key in Apple Wallet

actionable insights. The success of these projects underscores the transformative power of Gen AI in the hospitality industry.

For example, Gen AI voice agents capable of triaging requests and handling complex enquiries will soon become mainstream. These voice agents can manage everything from simple room service requests to intricate travel arrangements, significantly reducing the workload on human staff while ensuring prompt and accurate service for guests.

THE FUTURE WITH DIGITAL TWINS

Voice agent capabilities are just the first step. With digital twins powered by Gen AI, the future holds even more transformative potential. These digital twins will augment guest experiences by providing personalised and seamless interactions. They will also reduce the need for back-of-house roles as they achieve deep integration into various cloud systems, enabling unparalleled efficiency. However, the technology and integration required to realise this vision entirely still need to be implemented in the short term. n

Howard Phung, Pro-invest Group

Tailoring communications to guest’s preferred timing can impact the effectiveness of a campaign

ICrucial connections

EVT GROUP GENERAL MANAGER OF CUSTOMER AND BRAND, ALEX   HOLDEN, REVEALS HOW THE BUSINESS IS LEVERAGING GUEST DATA AND TECHNOLOGY TO REVOLUTIONISE COMMUNICATIONS.

n the evolving hospitality landscape, data-driven marketing has moved from a buzzword to an essential strategy. At EVT, we’re harnessing the power of centralised guest data to revolutionise how we connect with our customers throughout the entire customer journey. We have a highly innovative and efficient in-house digital media team. Here’s how our team is leveraging data to deliver more personalised and impactful interactions.

CENTRALISING GUEST DATA

We are on a journey to centralise guest data across every touchpoint; discovery, booking, check-in, dining, in-room experience, and post-stay feedback. This holistic approach allows us to craft personalised, contextual messages tailored to each guest’s preferences and behaviours. For instance, if a guest has previously enjoyed a particular wine, we might offer a special deal on that wine during their check-in process. This level of personalisation not only enhances the guest experience, but also fosters a deeper connection with our brand.

SINGLE CUSTOMER IDENTITY

A unified customer profile is crucial for delivering consistent and relevant experiences.

By integrating data across our brands and touchpoints, we can ensure that guests receive a cohesive experience, regardless of the channel they use. In the past, siloed systems led to fragmented journeys and misaligned messages. Our integrated tech stack is working hard to address this challenge by providing accurate, timely information through the most relevant channels.

OPTIMISING CHANNEL AND TIMING

We are able to take valuable insights across our multiple operating businesses

to understanding when and how guests interact with various channels. This is key to reducing friction and enhancing the customer journey. For example, if we know guests respond best to an email campaign at 11am, we engage them at that time. Similarly, if a guest has dined with us before and we have a new menu, we might send a tailored, timed notification to invite them to explore it. This targeted approach minimises waste, avoids contradictory messages, and aligns with their preferences, resulting in a streamlined experience.

LISTENING AND ADAPTING TO CUSTOMER SENTIMENT

Continuous feedback is integral to refining our approach. By actively surveying guests and analysing their sentiments, we can adapt our marketing strategies to better meet their needs. Positive NPS feedback may lead to exclusive offers or enhanced experiences, while constructive criticism helps us fine-tune our approach and improve our services. Whilst these challenges face all businesses, EVT is committed to investing in innovative solutions and resources to deliver datadriven marketing. This is what will set us apart as we transform guest interactions into meaningful experiences. n

Alex Holden, EVT

PROCURE-TO-PAY SOLUTIONS FOR THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY

About

Designed by hoteliers for hoteliers, our comprehensive suite of market-leading procure-to-pay solutions brings automation, efficiency and simplicity to the P2P process.

We have 25 years of experience in supporting customers to digitise their P2P tasks, saving them time and resources while ensuring cloud-based accessibility and secure, seamless connectivity.

FutureLog has transformed the way we handle the ordering process across our entire group.

Now we're fully automated, we have streamlined communication with our suppliers, it's so easy to use and it has saved our teams so much time and effort.

- Denis Karalić, ACHAT Hotels

No capital expenditure required

Follow-the-sun support

Swift onboarding and implementation

Easy integrations to POS and ERP platforms

Apps available in multiple languages

Contact us for a commitment-free demo:

sales@futurelog.com

www.futurelog.com

ORDERING

Simple, streamlined ordering with all supplier product ranges in one place.

INVENTORY MANAGEMENT

Reliable, real-time stock overviews, master data handling and easy in-house transfers.

RECIPE MANAGEMENT

Easy recipe and menu creation, POS connectivity, robust costings & reporting.

CONTRACT MANAGEMENT

Secure, audit-compliant digital archive with automated notifications and easy retrieval.

BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE

In-depth analytics, trend identification, rich visualisations & actionable insights.

INVOICING

Centralised, AI-powered invoice processing with transparent approvals.

CAPEX MANAGEMENT

Intuitive, efficient financial planning, with clear status overviews and activity logs.

BUDGETING & EXPENSE MANAGEMENT

Real-time tracking and intuitive monitoring of expected and actual budgets.

TECH INNOVATIONS

LEADERS AT THE FOREFRONT OF HOTEL TECHNOLOGY SHARE THEIR INSIGHTS ON THE POWERFUL INNOVATIONS THAT ARE CHANGING THE GAME FOR HOTELIERS AND GUESTS.

Easy upsell

GUEST EXPECTATIONS ARE continually evolving in line with technology and no doubt the bar has been raised when it comes to convenience, personalisation and flexibility in the guest experience.

Rolling out to more than 600 hotel customers in August and September, the latest upgrade of Foxtel’s Business iQ platform aims to set a new standard in personalised hospitality technology.

Featuring a modern and fully customisable user interface, this innovative upgrade offers guests easy access to all the necessary information regarding their stay and connects them to a range of services within the hotel and beyond.

Perhaps the most exciting feature for hoteliers is the increased capabilities to drive revenue across the platform, with the introduction of Digital Concierge cementing Business iQ’s position as a world leading guest engagement and upsell platform.

The highly anticipated 2024 upgrade of Foxtel’s Business iQ rolls out to more than 600 hotel customers in August and September

Designed to elevate service offerings while driving revenue and enhancing guest loyalty, the Digital Concierge is set to change the game when it comes to guest engagement and in-room transactions.

“The most effective way of generating upsell opportunities is by providing an engaging and interactive platform that will capture your guest’s attention,” said Foxtel Business National Manager –Accommodation, Scott Wiedemann.

“Personalising services by linking loyalty programs/rewards is a great way to start. Through digital concierge you can then promote treatment packages, day tours, food/drink specials, seasonal offers and book your next stay direct.”

Hotels can also create bespoke digital advertising signage and on-air content, elevating promotions and transforming guest engagement expectations.

“Engaging your guests on an emotional level will maximise impulse purchases,” added Wiedemann.

When it comes to the implementation of any new technology, Wiedemann says the focus should always be convenience, not only for the guest, but also the operator.

“Deployment of singular in-room technology that offers everything on the one platform provides immense benefit,” he says.

“Dealing with several different vendors can cause multiple points of failure and puts your daily operations at risk.”

From a technical support level, cloud technology is recommended as it eliminates the need for on-site visits by enabling remote troubleshooting, according to Wiedemann.

“Self-monitoring through management portals will prevent downtime and provide cost savings,” he says.

The new Business iQ will have a modern and fully customisable interface

Instant access

ACROSS ALL SEGMENTS of hotels, it’s safe to say that all travellers expect a secure environment that at the same time can address their modern preferences for instant service and convenience.

Few hotel services can fully cater to each of these needs better than a mobile room key solution equipped with digital wallet compatibility. Whether using an Apple or Google device, guests now have the ability to receive digital keys and gain instant guestroom

access without having to first download a mobile app.

“Receiving a mobile key is as easy as clicking on a link in a check-in confirmation email, making room access with digital wallets both seamless and completely hassle-free,” said Assa Abloy Global Solutions Australia Managing Director, Michael Benikos.

“Digital wallet-enabled mobile key solutions are supported by the latest in cloud-based access management software.

Space optimisation

GONE ARE THE days when a hotel was simply a place to sleep. The guests of today and tomorrow are looking for much more from their hotel stay.

“Guests are looking to discover a sense of community, find somewhere to open their laptops and work in an inviting atmosphere, and explore new experiences far from home,” says Mews CEO, Matt Welle.

“They’re staying for weeks, months and longer, searching for novel and authentic adventures in combination with flexible, comfortable stays.

“This means that hoteliers have an exciting opportunity to reimagine the way they offer their rooms, spaces and services.”

Mews Spaces enables hoteliers to look at their entire property – not just rooms – and turn unused spaces into services that drive revenue and richer experiences. Once a guest checks out of a room, it can serve as an office for the rest of the day.

A meeting room booked for an afternoon event can be a by-thehour co-working space in the morning.

Vostio Access Management by Vingcard is designed to deliver secure entry and advanced protection

“Using Vostio Access Management by Vingcard, cloud-first for hoteliers means being able to always stay ahead of the latest security threats, with automatic updates that ensure the system is always equipped with the most advanced protection.

“This includes supporting recent advances in keycard credential security such as MIFARE Ultralight AES, providing guests with the superior data encryption and added peace of mind that they deserve.”

Mews Spaces enables hoteliers to turn unused spaces into services that drive revenue

“Rather than managing all these bookings across multiple platforms, every single one can be viewed in a single dashboard and timeline,” Welle says.

“This not only reduces the impact of seasonal ups and downs, but transforms opportunities to diversify revenue while delivering new and innovative guest experiences.”

Novotel Perth Murray Street has introduced Siemens’ stateof-the-art fire safety solutions

SMARTER SOLUTIONS

Enhance guest safety and ensure a pleasant stay by combating false fire alarms in hotels with Siemens fire safety solutions.

Do you trust the accuracy of your fire alarms? In 2019/2020, figures show that firefighters responded to over 8,000 false fire alarm activations in Western Australia alone, according to government figures.

False alarms can be a persistent concern, especially in the hospitality industry, and pose significant challenges for guests and hotel management. Frequent false alarms disrupt daily operations and incur costs associated with fire department responses and potential penalties. Addressing false alarms is crucial for maintaining guest satisfaction.

Novotel Perth Murray Street recognised the significance of their guests’ safety, wellbeing, and operational efficiency, so they turned to Siemens’ state-of-the-art fire safety solutions. Interactive Fire Systems, a Siemens Solution Partner, professionally installed, commissioned, and tested the entire system, including the ASA detectors.

Located in the heart of Perth, the 35-storey, 4.5-star Novotel offers business travellers and families a world-class travel experience. With its 431 stylish guestrooms, family rooms, suites, modern Asian dining offerings, and top-notch recreation facilities, it’s the ideal option for both business and leisure travel.

“The results of installing Siemens ASA detectors have been nothing short of exceptional,” said Novotel Perth’s General Manager, Nathan Frost.

“According to our meticulous system records, no false alarm has been triggered from any guest bedroom since the installation. This achievement has significantly contributed to our guests’ safety and peace of mind, making their stay at Novotel Perth Murray Street more enjoyable.

“Together, we have successfully created an environment where false alarms are virtually non-existent, a significant accomplishment that underscores our commitment to guest safety and satisfaction.”

Detectors with Siemens’ unique ASAtechnology™ offer advanced signal analysis and selectable parameter sets. As a result, they ensure very fast and highly reliable detection of the fire criteria smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide, even in the most challenging application areas. They can recognise smoke from cigarettes, vapor, or candles and differentiate those from real fire smoke. This ensures maximum safety and optimal protection of people and assets without false alarms.

ASA detectors work according to the scattered-light principle with two sensors, optical forward and backward scattering. The optoelectronic sampling chamber blocks disturbing extraneous light but detects dark and light smoke particles optimally. Two additional heat sensors increase the fire detector’s immunity to deceptive phenomena. Depending on the model, a carbon monoxide sensor in the detector provides extra detection algorithms for smarter fire detection.

Siemens’ ASAtechnology minimises the occurrence of false alarms and unnecessary evacuations. By enhancing guest experiences through improved safety measures, Novotel can establish itself as a trusted choice for customers. n

Learn more about Siemens’ solutions for fire safety: https://www.siemens.com/au/en/products/buildingtechnologies/fire-safety.html

Siemens’ ASAtechnology minimises the occurence of false alarms

Time-saving solutions

PROCURE-TO-PAY SOLUTIONS FOR the hospitality industry are ever evolving in line with growing demand for automated, connected solutions that save time, increase efficiency and reduce costs.

FutureLog’s latest innovations include CAPEX Management, a robust, cloud-based tool to manage, track, approve, and analyse capital expenditure with unparalleled efficiency and precision.

“Our Recipe Management module has revolutionised how hotel and restaurant teams collaboratively create, share and standardise recipes and menus,” said FutureLog’s Global Vice President Strategic Accounts, Benjamin Krieg.

“With POS connectivity for automated stock decrementation, its menu engineering capabilities help users identify the most popular and profitable dishes, maximising revenue while helping to reduce waste and optimise spend.”

FutureLog’s market-leading Business Intelligence tool leverages artificial intelligence and machine learning to equip

Secure payments

PAYMENT FRAUD IN Australia’s hospitality and tourism sector is a growing issue, putting hoteliers’ hard-earned revenue at risk as well as their guests’ security, according to RMS Cloud Chief Product Officer, Cameron Gough.

“With more people booking holidays online and using digital payments, fraudsters are having a field day, exploiting vulnerabilities surrounding rapid digital adoption that is outpacing security measures,” Gough said.

“Hotels, OTAs and guests have been targeted by fraudsters breaching systems or using phishing scams to trick guests into sharing their payment details.”

The company has established RMS Pay to provide a secure payment gateway to combat fraudulent payments.

1834 Hotels’ General Manager, Fiona Hehir, adopted RMS PAY following a period of OTA fraud problems.

“We had a property that received $200k in bookings with fraudulent cards in one month through OTAs that might have resulted in a large revenue loss if not picked up immediately,” said Hehir.

customers to forecast, identify trends, and uncover opportunities for improvement.

“Our AI-powered Digital Invoicing enhancements are delivering impressive results for customers, with invoice recognition and processing speeds continuously improving when paired with large language models,” Krieg said.

FutureLog is continuing to innovate with new products set to come onboard.

“Our upcoming product pipeline reaffirms our commitment to rapid innovation, ensuring our solutions remain several steps ahead of any other procure-to-pay system globally,” Krieg said.

“We are excited to announce the release of additional modules soon, leveraging AI and other cutting-edge technologies to transform hospitality operations.”

“Thankfully with RMS PAY, our properties can check cards to make sure they’re validated there and then, rather than waiting too close to arrival.”

Gough says, “we need to get serious about advanced security tech; think card tokenisation, multifactor authentication for online transactions and implementing safe and PCI-DSS compliant practices”.

RMS Pay aims to provide a secure payment gateway to combat fraudulent payments

FutureLog is leveraging AI and machine learning to deliver innovative solutions for the hospitality industry

SORA can deliver digital experiences that are unique to each property

LASTING IMPRESSION

SiLANT introduces interactive in-room technology platform, SORA: because guests expect the best.

One of the most critical aspects of providing a beneficial guest experience is providing the same if not better offerings as to what they have at home. This will create increasing challenges for those properties that have not updated or future-proofed their in-room guest entertainment offerings.

SiLANT is excited to announce the launch of a new interactive platform from our partner SONIFI, the industry leader in in-room guest entertainment.

SORA is an interactive platform from SONIFI that uses in-room TVs to promote your brand, improve satisfaction, increase guest loyalty, simplify operations, and generate revenue.

Every touchpoint throughout your property is designed to deliver memorable guest experiences; SiLANT believes in-room technology should do the same.

With our new SORA offering, SiLANT can deliver the digital experiences that guests want in a way that’s unique to your property. Showcasing your brand and marketing your property is front and centre with customisable menus, interfaces, and features.

Integrations with your PMS and other systems automate personalisations on SORA to make things easier for staff to extend digital hospitality to guests, such as greeting guests with time-aware elements, sending customised messages and promotions, and elevating the content guests are using.

The system also offers simple, intuitive self-service options so guests can choose how and when they want to interact throughout their stay, including:

• Ads and QR codes that get guests quick access on their phone to view menus, order food, book a reservation, see on-prem specials, join your loyalty program, connect with your concierge or texting program

The SORA platform enables hotels to communicate with guests throughout their stay

• A digital hotel directory – with text, images, videos, and QR codes –that guests can peruse at their leisure

• Custom videos that promote your property, educate guests about the area, and cater to your specific guests (tutorials, tips, lessons, demonstrations, etc.)

• Account review and late checkout purchases without needing to call the front desk or stand in line

SORA gives easily access all the entertainment guests want most: free-to-guest live TV programming, streaming from thousands of apps via STAYCAST – SONIFI’s patented casting solution – and premier ondemand content, including still-in-theatre movies, international and independent films, family entertainment, and wellness programs. Impress your guests with every stay and talk to SiLANT to find out more how our systems can drive revenue, guest satisfaction and brand loyalty. n

Learn more at sales@silant.tech www.silant.tech

Smart systems

CREATING A HOME away from home for each individual guest is no easy task, but with the rise of smart and autonomous technology, buildings can play a crucial role in meeting this demand, according to Siemens.

Siemens Building X is a digital building platform that digitalises, manages, and optimises building operations, improves sustainability, operational performance, and building value.

“With the Energy Manager application, facility managers can increase energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and costs through real-time monitoring,” says Siemens Australia and New Zealand General Manager – Building Products, Jason Scukovic.

“In addition, they can forecast and optimise future needs, while being able to react promptly. The available data leads to informed decision-making, resource optimisation, and enhanced efficiency.

“Besides the significant advantages for hotel operators, smart technologies can provide guests with personalized and convenient settings through intelligent heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) as well as lighting controls.

“Embracing these solutions empowers hotels to deliver superior guest experiences, achieve operational excellence, and drive sustainability, positioning themselves to meet the evolving demands of modern travellers while maintaining a competitive edge in the industry.”

Digital building platforms can improve energy efficiency

Guests can be in control of their air and lighting preferences

Interactive experiences

ENSURING A SUPERIOR guest experience often means matching or exceeding the comfort and convenience guests enjoy at home. For many properties, staying competitive means upgrading and future-proofing in-room entertainment options.

Enter SiLANT’s latest innovation: SORA, a cutting-edge interactive platform from its partner and a leader in in-room guest entertainment, SONIFI.

Super chargers

Connectivity has never been more important to today’s travellers, and hotels are expected to do their part in keeping guests connected.

Providing easy access to universal phone chargers, particularly in public spaces, can go a long way in enhancing guest satisfaction.

Swisstrade presents the MaxPro wireless charger, a refined solution designed to keep hotel guests effortlessly powered and connected.

“With its sleek 15W charging capability, the MaxPro integrates seamlessly into restaurant tables, bars, bedside tables, meeting rooms, and breakout areas with minimal alterations to existing furniture,” according to Swisstrade.

“This subtle integration ensures guests enjoy the convenience of wireless charging without visual disruption.

“Universally compatible with most smartphones, Stay Charged MaxPro enhances guest experience with sophisticated and practical design.

“By offering this elegant convenience, hotels can create a lasting impression, encouraging repeat visits and increasing guest satisfaction.”

SORA transforms in-room televisions into powerful tools that not only promote your brand but also enhance guest satisfaction, bolster loyalty, streamline operations, and drive revenue.

“Every touchpoint throughout your property is designed to deliver memorable guest experiences; SiLANT believes in-room

technology should do the same,” according to joint company founders Heinrich Saayman and David Lowthian

“With our new SORA offering, SiLANT can deliver the digital experiences that guests want in a way that’s unique to your property. Showcasing your brand and marketing your property is front and centre with customisable menus, interfaces, and features.”

More and more hotel groups are investing in the development of team members across all departments

Skilling up

IN AN EVER-EVOLVING INDUSTRY, INVESTMENT IN LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT IS ESSENTIAL FOR EVEN THE MOST EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONALS TO THRIVE. RUTH HOGAN REPORTS.

Investing in hospitality education has never been more important as the industry seeks to build a strong and diverse pipeline of talent to support industry growth for the years to come. And with the rise of new technologies and ever evolving guest preferences, the learning doesn’t stop on graduation.

More and more hotel groups are investing in learning and development to keep their teams equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform at their best.

Ascott, Capella and Pro-invest Group are among the latest hotel groups to tap into local education providers to build mutually beneficial partnerships.

In May, The Ascott Limited launched a global training academy, the Ascott Global Academy for Excellence (AGAX), to strengthen and grow its workforce and cultivate a strong pipeline of talent.

An extension of the Ascott Centre for Excellence (ACE), a hospitality training centre in Singapore that provides training courses to

the wider industry, AGAX is a collaboration with accredited learning partners that will see associates from around the world receive training both in person and virtually.

Using a systematised and outcomebased learning method, AGAX will offer apprenticeship programmes, hospitality and service training courses, as well as personal development programmes.

“By prioritising continuous learning and development, Ascott aims to nurture a workforce that is not only adept at meeting current challenges but also poised to capitalise on future opportunities in the dynamic hospitality industry,” said Ascott Chief Strategy Officer and Managing Director, Southeast Asia, Wong Kar Ling.

“This will allow Ascott to uplift our human capital while providing best-in-class hospitality products and services as a preferred accommodation of choice for our property owners and guests.”

Ascott’s Chief Operating Officer, Europe, Middle East, Africa (EMEA), South Asia and

China, Lee Ngor Houai, said it is imperative that the company invests in the personal and professional development of its team members.

“With the launch of the Ascott Global Academy for Excellence, we aim to cultivate a culture where every Ascott associate is equipped with the tools and resources needed to thrive in their roles,” said Lee Ngor Houai.

Capella Sydney – the first Capella hotel in Australia, which debuted last year – recently partnered with Torrens University to offer students hospitality work placements and provide upskilling opportunities for its team members.

Torrens University students will have the opportunity to gain placements and graduate roles across various departments at the 5-star hotel, providing new education and career pathways into the hospitality industry.

Additionally, Capella Sydney’s employees will have access to a multitude of educational opportunities, including upskilling courses, professional development workshops, and advanced degree programs offered by Torrens.

“Capella Sydney is delighted to collaborate with Torrens University to offer students and our existing colleagues unparalleled opportunities to refine their skills and gain invaluable real-world experience in our awardwinning hotel,” said Capella Sydney Director of Human Resources, Ken Cheng.

Also in Australia, Pro-invest Group recently partnered with Southern Cross University on a new equity scholarship and internship program to cultivate future generations of industry talent.

As an owner and manager of one of Australia’s largest independent hotel portfolios, Pro-invest Group will play an important role in providing access to paid internships, mentorships, and potential employment opportunities within the hotel industry, as well as financial assistance to support studies.

“This collaboration will be transformative for scholarship recipients who can immerse themselves in university life and embark on an exciting career, without financial hardship,”

said Southern Cross University Chief Marketing Officer, Dean Gould.

“It will also prepare more students to be innovators in the tourism and hotel sector, and allow the industry to benefit from fresh talent.”

According to Pro-invest Group’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Manager, and Southern Cross alumnus, Cindy Van der Wal, “the opportunities are endless once you start on this career path.” n

Capella Sydney recently partnered with Torrens University to provide upskilling opportunities for team members

CHOOSE YOUR OWNadventure

GEN Z AND CORPORATE CLIENTELE ARE CATERED FOR AT THE NEWLY OPENED NOVOTEL AND IBIS STYLES MELBOURNE AIRPORT. RUTH  HOGAN REPORTS.

Melbourne Airport has welcomed the arrival of its first internationally branded newbuild hotel in over two decades with the opening of the dual-branded Novotel and Ibis Styles Melbourne Airport in July.

The AU$230 million project, which was eight years in the making, represents the largest and most significant hotel development in Australia this year and is the cumulation of construction, architecture and design works by the teams at Built, Fender Katsalidis, Techne and Woods Bagot.

Located within the Melbourne Airport precinct, a short walk or shuttle bus to the various terminals, the dualbranded hotel features 464 guest rooms – 248 of which have been designed under Accor’s midscale Novotel brand and 216 under its design-driven economy brand Ibis Styles.

“The vision here is to have two brands so that we’ve got options for a range of travellers,” Accor Pacific Chief Operating Officer Adrian Williams told HM

“Airport hotels have always been a strong category and with the continued growth of international and domestic tourism, it’s the place to be – and not just for travellers,” he said.

“The Melbourne Airport precinct really is a mini city, with 20,000 workers out here, there’s many other things going on beyond air travel.”

Ibis Styles guest rooms feature a striking statement wall behind the bed that features one of seven city-themed decals

Boccata Restaurant serves up a buffet breakfast in the mornings and Italian fare by night

The hotel caters to business, conference, and leisure guests alike with ample facilities including three dining venues, two floors of hotel-serviced co-working space –a first for the airport – the largest function space in the precinct, catering to up to 330 guests, as well as the city’s first airport health and wellbeing facility.

Williams says it’s “much more than just a place to sleep”.

“What we’ve seen is a real demand for great experiences,” he told HM.

“People, whether they are travelling or working at an airport, are looking for a range of things: great food, amazing accommodation, a value-oriented experience.

The hotel’s design was inspired by the state of Victoria with nods to the region’s natural splendour throughout.

On arrival, guests cross over a bluestone path –reminiscent of Melbourne’s iconic laneways – flanked by a leafy courtyard, that leads into a grand foyer with a reception desk for each brand, as well as three digital kiosks for a quick and convenient check-in/check-out.

Digital screens thoughtfully positioned throughout the public spaces list up-to-date flight information to allow guests to maximise their time in a relaxed hotel environment and reduce waiting time in the hustle and bustle of the terminal.

A calming colour palette of natural shades of green, sand and charcoal extends from the lobby and conference spaces – where carpets are inspired by the scenery of the Great Ocean Road – through to the Novotel guest rooms.

On exiting the lift, guests are greeted by the “changing faces of Melbourne” a selection of portraits of young and old Melbournians, that represents the city’s diverse population.

The design-driven Ibis Styles brand comes to life in 216 rooms over nine levels with a playful, urban look that echoes Melbourne’s arts and culture scene.

Carpet in the corridor is inspired by the original design of Melbourne’s Hoddle (street) Grid – and doubles up as a Spiderman effect for the younger guests as Director of Sales and Marketing Narelle Welsh points out.

Standing at 21sqm, the Ibis Styles guest rooms feature industrial-style fixtures and fittings, coloured grout in the shower and a striking statement wall behind the bed that features one of seven Melbourne-inspired decals.

“Narelle tells me, ‘It’s Gen Z that way and corporate and calming that way’,” Melbourne Airport CEO, Lorie Argus, told guests at the launch, pointing to opposite ends of the lobby.

The hotel’s food and beverage offering includes Small Holdings café, which welcomes a steady trail of guests and local workers for coffee and pastries throughout the day; Boccata Restaurant, which serves up a buffet breakfast in the mornings before transitioning to an Italian restaurant in the evenings; and modern gastropub, Amber State Taphouse and Kitchen, which is slated to open in the spring. n

A calming colour palette of natural shades of green, sand and charcoal extends throughout the lobby and Novotel end

The hotel features a large co-working space, meeting areas and a boardroom

La

launched its own lifestyle brand NOOE with a

opening last year

Independent operator

LA VIE HOTELS AND RESORTS CEO, JERRY XU, SPOKE TO RUTH HOGAN ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF ADDING VALUE IN BUSINESS AND WHAT’S MISSING IN THE ASIA PACIFIC HOTEL MARKET.

Ten years on from the establishment of La Vie Hotels and Resorts in Singapore, the independent hotel management company is going from strength to strength.

In the last 12 months, La Vie has expanded its lifestyle portfolio with the addition of Adge Hotel and Residences, introduced its own lifestyle brand, NOOE Hotels and Restaurants, with a flagship location in the picturesque Atoll of Kunaavashi in the Maldives, and built out its team across its Sydney and Bangkok offices with a number of key hires.

Powered by a willingness to learn from the success of others and a desire to carve its own path in the industry, La Vie’s senior leadership team embarked on a trip to the United States last year to see firsthand the impact of the owner-centric franchise model in a more mature market.

By tapping into the knowledge and experience of industry giants including Aimbridge Hospitality, Davidson Hospitality and IHG Hotels and Resorts, La Vie has sharpened its focus on its value proposition as an independent management company in the Asia Pacific.

“We went to other management companies to learn what they do and how they do it,” La Vie Hotels and Resorts CEO, Jerry Xu, told HM.

“We learned a lot. It was definitely eye opening for us. It’s very rare in business to see what your future holds.”

Vie

Maldives

The Islington, Hobart is soon to reveal the results of a major refurbishment project

“In Asia Pacific, there are not many mature full service independent hotel management companies that are full strength, from technical advisory, preopening to commercial, revenue management, finance, operation excellence etc.,” he said.

“We are standing directly with owners – our interests are tied together. The majority of our revenue as a company comes from bottom line, so we choose a brand that works best for both of us.”

La Vie’s capabilities extend across three models –franchise, white label and own brand.

“Ultimately, as we are brand agnostic, we approach all projects with a focus on flexibility and driving results,” Xu said.

When it comes to business, Xu is adamant that any partnerships must bring value on both sides.

“I don’t want quantity, we want quality.”

Jerry Xu, La Vie Hotels and Resorts

“Our value proposition is that we are able to add value to our clients – if we cannot, I would prefer not to proceed. Only if we make money and the owner makes money, it’s a win win; otherwise, if the value add we have is not more than our administration costs, or not more than what they used to make, then we should not proceed.

“It’s about driving performance and operational excellence – I don’t want quantity, we want quality.”

FOCUSED ON GROWTH

While continuing to leverage the brand value and distribution of recognisable brands, as well as independent distribution partners such as Small Luxury Hotels of the World and Mr and Mrs Smith, La Vie sees an opportunity to complement this in a targeted way to drive stronger top line performance into its specific portfolio under management. To that end, La Vie is building its own distribution and commercial engine as an overlay and value add to its partners.

Over the next 12-18 months, Xu is focused on growth.

“I call last year our ‘consolidation year’ and now we are able to focus on growth,” he said.

“Financially, while we have a strong balance sheet and are cashflow positive groupwise without building the proper infrastructure with the right platform for distribution for management and the right people, you cannot grow and add value to your partners.

“This is why we are very proud of the end-to-end comprehensive operating platform that we have in place to ensure we are maximising opportunities for our owners and driving superior returns. We will continue to invest in both our people and our platform.

“We are excited about the future. This year, we’re opening 10 hotels, but we’re targeting to sign 20+ hotels,” Xu said.

“We look forward to working with likeminded partners who have the capability and vision to deliver as we move forward together to build successful long-term relationships.” n

Boutique property Adge Hotel and Residences launched in Sydney’s Surry Hills last year

Jerry Xu, La Vie Hotels and Resorts

Umana Bali, part of LXR Hotels and Resorts, opened in the first half of 2024

growthPOISED FOR

HILTON SVP FOR DEVELOPMENT – APAC, CLARENCE  TAN, SPOKE TO RUTH HOGAN ABOUT KEY OPPORTUNITIES IN THE ASIA PACIFIC MARKET.

How have you seen the APAC hotel development landscape change over the last 12 months?

The APAC hotel development landscape has seen significant growth over the past year, reflecting the region’s dynamic and resilient tourism and hospitality market.

Hotel investment volumes in the region this year are projected to reach US$10.4 billion, up from US$9.8 billion in 2023, with the first quarter of 2024 seeing hotel construction pipeline at an all-time high and recordhigh levels seen in the luxury, upper upscale, and upscale segments. Additionally, while management agreements remain the dominant model in Asia Pacific, the appetite for franchising is on the rise, particularly in South East Asia, and the benefits are becoming increasingly attractive to owners in the region.

Hilton has an ambitious strategy to capture these critical opportunities. We are accelerating our growth as the fastest growing hospitality company in Asia Pacific, with almost one in four hotel rooms under construction bearing a Hilton flag. Having now surpassed 800 trading hotels, we will open a new hotel every two days this year, putting us well on course to exceed 1,000 properties in APAC by 2025.

South East Asia is a growing market for Hilton. Can you tell us about some of the recent signings in this region?

South East Asia continues to present a positive outlook for the industry. The strong demand for travel has prompted significant interest in hospitality real estate, with four of the top five APAC cities with the largest hotel development pipelines located in South East Asia.

Currently, we have 58 hotels trading and 47 in the pipeline. Our plan is to double our presence in this region in the coming years, and the signings of 11 new properties across Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam, which includes the debut of Tapestry Collection by Hilton in South East Asia, provide a significant boost to this goal. We tap into the region’s continued upward trajectory and bullish investment sentiments, ensuring that we deploy the right brand in the right location to generate best in class owner returns.

Part of this wave of signings are several Hilton Garden Inn properties that underscore our strategy to expand our focused service footprint in South East Asia. We are upbeat about the opportunities in this segment, and we are focused on growing our Hilton Garden Inn brand at scale to cater to the region’s booming middle class demand. This will provide a great boost to our growth platform, and we are confident that it will be a substantial accelerator of our presence across South East Asia and the broader APAC region.

Luxury continues to be a priority for Hilton, and South East Asia offers immense opportunities. The signing of

Conrad Jakarta builds on our broadening collection of luxury brands and properties in the region – from the recent openings of Umana Bali, LXR Hotels and Resorts, Conrad Singapore Orchard, to the upcoming openings of Waldorf Astoria Jakarta, Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur, and Waldorf Astoria Hanoi in the coming years. Today, Asia Pacific accounts for 40% of Hilton’s luxury portfolio and half of our global luxury pipeline. With 34 luxury properties and another 34 in the pipeline (seven in South East Asia), our luxury brand presence is set to double over the coming years.

We are also building our growth momentum across multiple brands and emerging destinations, including new market entries into Laos and Timor-Leste later this year.

What other markets are showing promise for hotel development in APAC?

Another market showing great promise in the region is India, which currently leads the Asia Pacific region (excl. China) in hotel development projects. With its hospitality market projected to reach US$31.01 billion by 2029, Hilton envisions playing a pivotal role in this growth by strategically positioning itself as a key player in the market and bringing its international best practice to the fore.

2024 is poised to be a significant year for Hilton’s expansion in India as we continue to power our growth narrative with brand launches, new market entries and marquee openings in key gateway cities. Our ambitious long-term strategy involves exploring numerous

“The appetite for franchising is on the rise.”

Clarence Tan, Hilton

opportunities in India’s diverse landscape to cater to different customer segments – from upscale luxury to mid-segment and focused service. With five brands currently operating across India, we are focused on building and diversifying our brand portfolio further to leverage the evolving business and leisure consumer market. We are on track to triple our trading estate to 75 hotels in the coming years.

How is franchising proving to be a successful tool for Hilton’s growth?

Franchising has been a significant part of Hilton’s growth globally, with more than 90% of Hilton's portfolio in the Americas being franchised. This is a platform that we seek to expand in Asia Pacific to provide more opportunities for owners in the region to be part of Hilton’s story, and for more guests to gain greater access to the Hilton experience.

We know owners that prefer to operate hotels independently are keen to leverage Hilton’s iconic brands, powerful commercial engine, robust supply chain, and extensive support network. Our awardwinning Hilton Garden Inn brand, in particular, offers an efficient kit-of-parts prototype and greater flexibility, making it an ideal fit for franchising among local owners seeking agility in the Asia Pacific hospitality market.

We launched our Hilton Garden Inn franchise model in Greater China in 2021, and are now focused on expanding it in Thailand and Australia. The brand continues to be primed for expansion, focusing on regionalisation to cater to diverse guest needs and highlighting tremendous growth opportunities across the region.

Following the success of franchising Hilton Garden Inn, we recently expanded our franchise model in Greater China into the upscale full-service segment with DoubleTree by Hilton. This widens the spectrum of opportunities for developers and owners to drive further growth in more brand segments.

With franchising, we continue to affirm our value to our owners who can trust in the power of our brands, our sound strategy, and our ability to deliver exceptional returns.

How are partnerships influencing Hilton’s growth?

We have been unlocking the potential of strategic partnerships and acquisitions. Our partnership with Small Luxury Hotels of the World will add hundreds of luxury hotels to our portfolio over the next couple of years. This will complement the world-class luxury experiences offered at our Waldorf Astoria, LXR and Conrad hotels. The acquisition of the NoMad brand accelerates our expansion in the luxury and lifestyle segments, and reflects our focus on expanding our offerings for guests in the fastest-growing markets and segments. These partnerships allow us to expand our reach to new target audiences, fill gaps in our portfolio, and stay ahead of industry trends. n

Clarence Tan, Hilton

Conrad Singapore Orchard is among Hilton’s recent high-profile openings

Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour

benefited greatly from its proximity to the ICC

Nice to be MICE

LEADERS IN HOTEL DEVELOPMENT DISCUSS THE EVOLUTION OF CORPORATE AND MICE HOTELS.

ACCOR PACIFIC

Lindsay Leeser, Chief Development Officer MEETINGS AND EVENTS continue to play a major role in the success of our hotels and we have been strategically building our portfolio of hotels which are located next to or near precincts that are known for hosting major conferences and events for over 20 years.

By providing convenient access to major event venues, our hotels have naturally become the preferred choice for attendees wanting a trusted base that they know will cater to all their business and leisure needs.

Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour and Novotel Sydney Darling Square in particular have benefited greatly from their proximity to the ICC. From international concerts to large scale roadshows and state backed events such as SXSW, these hotels are in a prime position to cater to those needing a room to rest, while the F&B operations at these hotels see a significant uplift during these major event times.

In Brisbane, Novotel South Bank and Mantra South Bank are all but a short walk away to the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre and both hotels boast fantastic access to all there is to love about this side of the Brisbane River, with fantastic dining and nightlife options in West End minutes away from the hotels. Our Novotel and Mantra brands lend themselves perfectly to business travellers with rooms designed with work and leisure in mind.

Similarly, Novotel Melbourne South Wharf is positioned to leverage its proximity to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. This location is pivotal for attracting business travellers attending events

at one of the largest event facilities in the Southern Hemisphere. The hotel’s modern guestrooms and comprehensive facilities cater to the needs of both conference delegates and leisure travellers. Novotel Melbourne South Wharf’s strategic location also offers easy access to Melbourne’s central business district, enhancing its appeal to a broad spectrum of guests.

While almost all of our hotels offer their own incredible meeting and event facilities that cater to small and large groups, it is our strategic placement in key event precincts that sets us apart and allows us to not only provide exceptional convenience for our guests but also ensures robust returns for our owners.

has

BWH’s Carlton Hotel Singapore is in high demand with MICE planners

BWH HOTELS

Rod Munro, Managing Director,

Australasia

THE LAST TWO years have certainly seen the MICE industry bounce back for corporate travel.

As 2024 continues to unfold, BWH Hotels has seen figures nearing 2019 levels with MICE growth rates higher than expected across its Southeast Asia hotels. Whilst the SEA market has experienced a resurgence, it’s been met with a change in requirements by MICE planners and travellers, now prioritising sustainability, hybrid capabilities and experiential events.

Singapore and Bangkok are two primary destinations which saw green shoots early on and whose figures are drawing close to prepandemic levels. BWH’s Carlton Hotel Singapore, Carlton City Hotel Singapore and Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit are prize properties offering travellers luxury accommodation in the heart of their cities to enrich the traveller experience while overseas. Both Singapore and Bangkok continue to remain in high demand with MICE planners, while new destinations such as Japan and Kuala Lumpur gain popularity.

Boasting 30+ state-of-the-art meeting and events facilities across the three properties, the Carlton properties are driving a focus on sustainability with their approach to energy and waste reduction alongside sustainable food and beverage sourcing while maintaining a luxury and prestigious experience for its corporate travellers and event organisers.

With the competition remaining strong across the MICE market, BWH’s Carlton properties are differentiating themselves by offering award-winning F&B outlets, great connectivity to the city surroundings and world-class amenities. By meeting the evolving needs of guests they’re ensuring they stay top-of-mind for corporate travellers.

HILTON

Tushar Raniga, Director of Development, Australasia

THE CORPORATE AND MICE hotel sectors are evolving rapidly, driven by shifting market demands and emerging trends.

Owners are responding to the growing need for properties that cater to both business and leisure travellers to accommodate the popular “Bleisure” trend. Hybrid spaces that can host large conferences and provide exceptional leisure experiences are on the rise, allowing owners to maximize occupancy and rates throughout the week. At the same time, state-of-the-art conference facilities are crucial for meeting the demands of modern business events.

From a MICE perspective, remote working and virtual meetings have not diminished the need for face-to-face collaboration. There is a growing trend towards smaller and more frequent events. While city centre events will continue to dominate, regional hotels can attract these meetings with their unique and quality locations and offerings.

We have seen this trend play out as we continue to sign and open regional properties as part of our Hilton Garden Inn and DoubleTree by Hilton brands. The recent signing of DoubleTree by Hilton Hobart is a great example. The hotel will feature two versatile meeting rooms and is also within walking distance to the CBD – the perfect location for business travellers. Considering that more than 70% of Hobart’s existing hotels have less than 100 rooms and are independently operated, there’s a substantial opportunity for DoubleTree to introduce a superior level of quality to Hobart’s MICE sector.

Our development strategy has always been to sign the right hotel, with the right brand, in the right location, at the right time. With this

Hilton Garden Inn and DoubleTree by Hilton are proving popular as regional meeting locations

in mind, we will continue to pursue both big-box hotels and smaller regional hotels, with a focus on conversions, where we know we can deliver the best possible guest experiences and owner returns given the current construction landscape.

There is a promising future for corporate and MICE hotels, with adaptability and innovation being key to success.

IHG HOTELS AND RESORTS

Cameron Burke, Director of Development – Australasia and Pacific AS ONE OF the world’s largest hotel operators with extensive estate coverage throughout the Australasia and Pacific region, IHG Hotels & Resorts is witnessing significant transformation across the corporate and MICE sectors in Australia. Whilst capital cities remain the primary preference for these crucial commercial segments, courtesy of strong infrastructure and ease of accessibility, regional destinations are gaining popularity for corporate retreats and smaller business events. This is a highly competitive segment, particularly during off-peak periods, where attracting such business is vital to sustain performance.

To stand out amidst the crowd, strong branding to complement robust facilities is critical for hotel owners – which is why our Crowne Plaza brand continues to maintain preferability with both developers and guests alike. As the world’s first business class hotel brand, Crowne Plaza is synonymous with corporate and MICE patronage globally – with our currently trading estate and raft of imminent openings a testament to this brand strength.

In the next twelve months, IHG plans to open new Crowne Plaza locations in Adelaide Mawson Lakes, Melbourne Carlton, and Shell Cove Marina, with a new 200-key property in Geelong slated for 2026. Crowne Plaza Geelong will form part of the Geelong Convention & Exhibition Centre which will transform the regional city into a yearround hub of corporate activity. These properties are each designed to principally target corporate travelers, whilst attracting higher-yielding transient guests with purposefully modern design, inspiring restaurant and bar concepts, and social workspaces that promote ‘bleisure’, the transition between business and leisure.

More broadly, our InterContinental brand remains highly coveted

for its ability to inspire incredible occasions – with MICE business a key driver to both resort and hotel product throughout the region. We’re looking forward to sharing some exciting announcements regarding new additions to these brand families in the months to come.

TFE HOTELS

Tess Gegenhuber, Development Executive TFE HOTELS’ MICE hotels continue to thrive due in part to their proximity to central business districts and transport hubs, and to our team’s adaptability in offering traditional and hybrid events for MICE clients. Our prime locations also afford delegates the flexibility to enjoy the hotel and conference facilities during the day/stay, with the added convenience of top-notch CBD dining and leisure options nearby. We’re also seeing more and more clients wanting co-working and impromptu meetings spaces which in turn drives incremental F&B revenue and adds atmosphere. TFE remains committed to meeting the needs of this market whilst also serving our bread-and-butter corporate business.

The industry continues to face challenges with cutbacks in corporate and travel budgets affecting occupancy but, pleasingly, the outlook for blended work and leisure stays remains strong and incentive travel continues to grow in leaps and bounds. I firmly believe hotels that offer authenticity, thoughtful and purposeful stays and a connection to community will continue to benefit from these types of travellers. Sustainability is also a determining factor in corporate contracting and companies, like TFE, who are mindful of their environmental impact, will prosper.

TFE has strong confidence in the local MICE market and our latest boutique offering – The Eve Hotel Sydney – in Redfern/Surry Hills’ Wunderlich Lane precinct, will launch with full conference and event facilities in close proximity. In Melbourne, our dual-branded Pearl River development, with Capital Alliance in Melbourne’s reinvigorated Docklands precinct, will deliver a 1000-seat event centre, adding a fresh outlook for the city’s MICE offerings.

Across the business, TFE is also committed to beta testing innovative products and solutions which will futureproof our brands and our business, and we look forward to some exciting announcements in this space in the not-too-distant future.

MICE business is a key driver for InterContinental resort and hotel product throughout the region

Quest maintains a strong presence in both urban and regional areas

THE ASCOTT LIMITED,

David Mansfield, Managing Director - Australia

AS WE NAVIGATE the post-pandemic landscape, the corporate and MICE hotel sectors are experiencing a significant resurgence. Corporate demand is robust, with a notable increase in regional bookings. Corporate spread into the regions is greater than we’ve ever seen before, underscoring a trend towards decentralisation and regional growth. This shift not only propels the pipeline of new developments but also emphasises the strategic importance of connectivity between key regional hubs and metropolitan areas.

Challenges persist, particularly around construction costs and resource availability. We’ve worked closely with our development partners to overcome obstacles such as high construction costs and limited resources. By structuring deals that offer certainty and profitability, we’re supporting our partners and ensuring the sustainability of our business.

City versus regional dynamics present balanced opportunities. While city hotels remain crucial, the Quest brand’s strong regional presence aligns with broader tourism trends, driven by both corporate and leisure travellers seeking unique, accessible experiences. Our goal remains to achieve significant growth targets under the “2030 growth strategy”, aiming to reach over 200 Quest properties and 30 managed hotels by the end of the decade.

In summary, the corporate and MICE hotel sectors are poised for continued growth. With a focus on regional expansion, strategic partnerships, and adapting to market trends, we are set to thrive in the coming years. Our goal is to be relevant and authentic, ensuring sustainable growth and exceptional service across all regions. n

TFE Hotels’ dual-branded Docklands development will deliver a 1000seat event centre

Queensland's

GOLDEN DECADE

STRONG OCCUPANCY AND SUBSTANTIAL INCREASES IN AVERAGE DAILY RATES (ADR) IN QUEENSLAND’S HOTEL MARKET HAVE CAUGHT THE ATTENTION OF INVESTORS.

Queensland’s regions are proving to be increasingly attractive to non-local buyers

JLL HOTELS AND HOSPITALITY GROUP

Gareth Closter, Senior Vice President – Investment Sales THROUGHOUT 2023, JLL Hotels and Hospitality Group witnessed an increase in the depth of the investor market for hotel assets in Queensland, particularly in the second half once interest rates stabilised.

Queensland is seen to offer real value compared to the larger markets of NSW and Victoria, and the growth story, particularly in South East Queensland, is undeniable.

This was clearly demonstrated in the recent sale of the Mercure Kawana Waters, an 81 key hotel on the Sunshine Coast. The previous sale of this hotel was in 2019, which took around a year to complete. Fast forward four years and the hotel sold at a 57% uplift to the previous sale and settled 77 days after the close of the Expressions of Interest process, with huge buyer depth for the asset.

This sale process is an excellent reflection of the substantial change in market dynamics for hotel investment in South East Queensland. The uplift in value almost mirrors the improvement in RevPAR for the region, and the buyer pool depth – coupled with the sophistication of the buyers who participated in the process – says a lot.

South East Queensland dominated both the improved RevPAR performance and transactional activity for the state. Hotel transactions in this region included the Sheraton Grand Mirage Gold Coast ($192m), Sofitel Brisbane (c.$178m), Quest Woolloongabba (c.$44m), The Park Hotel ($33.8m), Menso at Southbank (c.$27m), The Incholm by Ovolo Brisbane (c.$25m), Mercure Kawana Waters ($21.25m) and Quest Chermside (c.$14m).

As the state’s capital and future Olympic city, Brisbane has been the standout performer as we move into the ‘Golden Decade’, in the lead up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

The Queens Wharf project will only add to the growing list of reasons to visit the region, and will undoubtedly increase its presence on the world stage. Brisbane is fast becoming a standout leisure destination as it matures into a truly global city.

Continued hotel performance improvement seems highly likely as international in-bound arrivals increase and new hotel room supply remains benign – and all this before the ‘Olympic effect’ kicks in to accelerate growth in the sector.

Whilst there are obvious challenges ahead for hotel performance and investment, with softening macroeconomic conditions and hotel performance set to stabilise over the next 12-18 months, Queensland, and particularly South East Queensland, look set to enjoy the Golden Decade ahead. n

ON THE

MYOUR ROUNDUP OF THE LATEST KEY APPOINTMENTS ACROSS THE HOTEL INDUSTRY.

MINOR HOTELS

MINOR HOTELS has appointed Judd Rabbidge as the new General Manager of Avani and Fares Maldives Resort, effective July 2024.

An Australian national, Rabbidge most recently served as Hotel Manager at W Sydney, and previously held the position of Director of Sales and Marketing at W Bali – Seminyak.

“We are thrilled to welcome Judd Rabbidge to the Avani+ Fares Maldives team,” said Minor Hotels Cluster General Manager for the Maldives, Stuart De San Nicolas.

“His track record of success and deep understanding of the industry make him an excellent fit for this role, and his background in sales and marketing will be instrumental in driving revenue growth and enhancing brand visibility in this highly competitive market.”

RADISSON HOTEL GROUP

RADISSON HOTEL GROUP has appointed Tim Cordon as Chief Operating Officer, Middle East, Africa and Southeast, and has extended a number of leadership positions spanning sales, marketing, communications and finance to cover the South East Asia and Pacific region.

“Being appointed as Chief Operating Officer for the Middle East, Africa, and South East Asia is a tremendous honour,” said Cordon.

Tim Cordon

“I am excited to work with our newly promoted leadership team to drive innovation and growth in these dynamic regions where we currently operate 30 hotels and have and have a fastgrowing portfolio.”

MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL

MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL

has appointed Deb McDiarmid to the position of Area Director of Marketing – Australia, New Zealand and Pacific.

The experienced marketing professional will be responsible for driving strategic marketing and innovation across the group’s 47 hotels in the ANZP region – encompassing 16 brands in six countries.

McDiarmid has relocated to Sydney from the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas, where she has spent the last 2.5 years as Director of Marketing.

“I look forward to fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation within the team, aiming to contribute to Marriott’s vision as the world’s favourite travel company with a focus on enriching communities and expanding presence in new destinations,” said McDiarmid.

HIND MANAGEMENT

HIND MANAGEMENT, the parent company of Sudima Hotels, has appointed Kanika Jhunjhnuwala to the role of Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO). Jhunjhnuwala has led delivery of the group’s sustainable strategies and governance since 2019 in her role as Executive Director – Sustainability and Environment.

Jhunjhnuwala recently launched The Hotel Industry Sustainability Group, in which hotels work collaboratively to create a hotel-specific emissions benchmark with the goal of reducing emissions in the long run.

“For me this title is a continuation, and it really signals the group’s forward trajectory,” she said.

“We have shown others in the sector what is possible, and our goal is to lead the way in regenerative hospitality and leave the world in a better position that when we started.”

Judd Rabbidge

Deb McDiarmid

Kanika Jhunjhnuwala