Ascott Enhances Ascott Star Rewards to Reach 15 Million Members by 2028

Ascott Enhances Ascott Star Rewards to Reach 15 Million Members by 2028

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 3, 2025

The Ascott Limited (Ascott), a wholly owned subsidiary of CapitaLand Investment (CLI), is marking the sixth anniversary of its Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) loyalty programme with a host of upgrades aimed at enriching member experiences. With over five million members currently enrolled, the company is setting its sights on reaching at least 15 million members by 2028.

To support this ambitious growth, Ascott is introducing several digital enhancements, including an upgraded ASR mobile app with a refined user interface, faster navigation, and AI-driven personalised recommendations. The app will also streamline the booking process, cutting the steps required in half. Additionally, the GenAI-powered chatbot, Cubby, on the ASR website discoverasr.com, will now facilitate direct bookings with tailored property suggestions.

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ASR members play a key role in Ascott's business, contributing to over 90% of the brand’s website and app bookings in 2024. Compared to non-members, they spent 55% more on stays, driving ASR-generated revenue up by 30%. The company’s digital expansion continues with the ASR website now supporting 11 languages and integrating payment options like WeChat and Alipay, catering to its global clientele.

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Ms Tan Bee Leng, Chief Commercial Officer, Ascott said: "To achieve our target of more than 15 million members by 2028, Ascott is making significant enhancements to our mobile app and website, to enable our loyalty programme, Ascott Star Rewards (ASR), to be seamlessly integrated into the digital journey. Tapping into the power of AI, Ascott is harnessing technology as a driver of efficiency, personalisation, and seamless customer engagement, as part of our tech-forward hospitality journey. This enhanced digital presence is complemented by our commercial strategy which focuses on offering compelling deals, benefits and exclusive experiences to ASR members. It also underscores ASR's role in driving direct bookings for Ascott properties, reducing our reliance on online travel agencies. ASR members tend to book more frequently, hence contributing to higher profitability for property owners while delivering richer data insights for Ascott to enhance guest experiences and brand loyalty."

She further added "Looking ahead, Ascott will be stepping up our loyalty engagement with corporate accounts, to create compelling ASR offerings for business travellers as well as the companies they represent. We are also broadening the ASR ecosystem with more strategic partnerships such as airlines and airports, to reward members with more perks to enrich their stay experiences with Ascott. In line with ASR's brand promise to Stay Rewarded, we remain focused on deepening connections with our members to deliver them the best experiences while supporting the long-term profitability of Ascott's business," 

Beyond traditional rewards, Ascott is curating premium experiences for its members. ASR will offer exclusive access to events such as the French Open in Paris and Chelsea Football Club’s Famous CFC event in Bangkok. Through its Ascott Privilege Signatures series, members have already enjoyed VIP access to Wimbledon and the Singapore Night Race. These partnerships highlight ASR’s shift from a standard points-based programme to a holistic lifestyle and travel experience.

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Looking ahead, Ascott plans to enhance corporate engagement by introducing ASR benefits tailored for business travellers and their companies. It is also expanding collaborations with airlines and travel brands to offer perks such as Priority Airport Lounge access and frequent flyer miles.

In celebration of ASR’s sixth anniversary, members can earn 24,000 bonus points for bookings made between April 1 and May 31, 2025, along with complimentary airport lounge passes. This special offer is limited to the first 300 bookings through the ASR mobile app or website.

With a focus on seamless technology, curated rewards, and strategic growth, Ascott continues to strengthen its position as a leader in the global hospitality industry.


Monkey Shoulder & Ospree Duty-Free Create Buzz with ‘Liquid On Lips’ Travel Retail Activation

Monkey Shoulder & Ospree Duty-Free Create Buzz with ‘Liquid On Lips’ Travel Retail Activation

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 20, 2025

In a bold and spirited collaboration, Ospree Duty-Free and Monkey Shoulder have stirred up excitement across airport terminals with their latest experiential campaign — “Liquid On Lips.” Designed to break the monotony of traditional airport shopping, this activation turned duty-free into a vibrant playground for travelers.

The journey began the moment passengers were chauffeured to the store in Monkey Shoulder-branded buggies, making a bold first impression. On arrival, they were welcomed with a complimentary shot of Monkey Shoulder, setting the tone for an immersive in-store experience.

Inside the Ospree Duty-Free departure outlets, tent cards, branded communication, and voucher distribution helped guide customers through each touchpoint. The business assistance team further enhanced the engagement by educating guests about the activation, ensuring every traveller got the full Monkey Shoulder experience.

Adding to the buzz was a giant mixer truck stationed at the terminal, where a live DJ spun a specially curated Monkey Shoulder playlist. The festive vibe spilled across the space, complemented by exclusive giveaways like branded coasters that added a memorable takeaway for shoppers.

The “Liquid On Lips” campaign is more than just a product promotion—it’s a clever reimagination of how lifestyle brands can create storytelling-led engagement at high-traffic travel hubs. By turning routine shopping into a sensory celebration, Monkey Shoulder and Ospree Duty-Free have successfully tapped into the modern traveler’s desire for experiences over transactions.

A spokesperson from Ospree Duty Free shared, “This collaboration with Monkey Shoulder is truly one-of-a-kind, and we're proud to bring something so fresh and engaging. The DJ setup, the larger-than-life truck, branded golf carts, and the whole Liquid On Lips vibe creates a fun, experiential moment for travellers ensuring to cover each touch point. At Ospree Duty Free, we're always looking to create new ways for travellers to pause, engage, and take back a unique memory, and this one checks all the boxes.”

From interactive buggies and in-store activations to curated music and clever branding, this campaign highlights the rising relevance of experiential travel retail, making "Liquid On Lips" not just an event, but a moment travelers will remember long after takeoff.


Stone Wood Hosts Goa Travel Agents at Aralea Beach Resort to Strengthen Tourism Ties

Stone Wood Hosts Goa Travel Agents at Aralea Beach Resort to Strengthen Tourism Ties

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 20, 2025

Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts recently brought together over 60 travel professionals from across Goa for an exclusive meet-up at its stunning Aralea Beach Resort, Morjim. The scenic gathering set the stage for a meaningful afternoon of connection, collaboration, and conversation—focused on enhancing Goa’s presence as a leading destination for travellers.

Hosted with a blend of relaxed charm and business purpose, the event underscored Stone Wood’s continued commitment to strengthening partnerships within the travel ecosystem. From industry insights to discussions on guest experience enhancement, the meet-up served as a platform for open dialogue and mutual growth.

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We are delighted to have brought together such a vibrant community of travel professionals under one roof,” said Shikhar Kumar, Managing Director of Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts. “This gathering represents our ongoing commitment to building stronger partnerships that will ultimately benefit travelers seeking exceptional experiences in Goa. The enthusiasm and expertise shared by our guests reinforces our belief in the collaborative spirit that drives our industry forward.”

Set against Morjim’s serene shoreline, Aralea Beach Resort offered the perfect venue—providing not only breathtaking views and premium hospitality but also a real-time showcase of what Stone Wood stands for: quality, comfort, and thoughtful service.

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Abhijit Dey, Vice President of Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts, added: “The meet-up exemplifies the power of bringing together diverse perspectives from across the travel ecosystem. The insights shared by our esteemed travel agent partners will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and enhance our offerings. These collaborative efforts ensure that we remain at the forefront of delivering seamless and memorable experiences for every guest.”

From immersive conversations to first-hand property experiences, every detail of the event reflected the brand’s guest-first approach and forward-looking vision. As Goa’s tourism landscape continues to evolve, Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts is actively shaping that future—focusing on sustainable growth, stronger collaborations, and exceptional hospitality.


AHP Hospitality Challenge & Awards 2025 Returns with Focus on Skill, Scale & Inclusion

AHP Hospitality Challenge & Awards 2025 Returns with Focus on Skill, Scale & Inclusion

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 19, 2025

The Association of Hospitality Professionals (AHP) is gearing up for the 8th edition of its flagship event, the AHP Hospitality Challenge & Awards 2025, bringing together the best of India’s hospitality talent this July. Known for its nationwide impact and industry relevance, this year’s edition raises the bar once again with a sharp focus on skill development, scale, and inclusivity.

Running from 3rd to 9th July, with the grand awards night on 30th July at The Suryaa, New Delhi, the event offers a dynamic blend of competitions and recognitions across hospitality domains—culinary arts, front office, F&B service, and housekeeping. With over 300 participants, judged by 50 distinguished jury members across 20+ competition categories, the platform reflects the depth and dedication of India’s hospitality sector.

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AHP has carefully curated a multi-venue format to provide a professional, real-world setting for each skill category:

  • Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Hotel Management (3–5 July): Culinary Challenges

  • Indian Hotel Academy (8 July): Front Office Master

  • Radisson Blu, Paschim Vihar (9 July): Art of Bed Making & Towel Folding

  • The Suryaa, New Delhi (7 & 30 July): War of Spirits, Table Setting, and Awards Ceremony

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Vinod Gulati, President of the AHP Executive Committee, shares:
"Hospitality is a deeply human profession. This platform recognises the unseen excellence of those who shape guest experiences every day. It’s their moment to shine."

A cornerstone of the 2025 edition is “Sashakt – Empowering Special Ability Professionals”. This initiative invites specially-abled individuals to participate in the same categories as their peers, without separate judging criteria. By offering equal opportunity and thoughtful accommodations, AHP champions inclusion and celebrates skill over limitations, pushing forward a hospitality culture that’s accessible to all.

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From live cooking showdowns and F&B innovation to bed-making artistry, towel folding, and front office simulations, every contest is designed to challenge and celebrate the multidimensional nature of hospitality.

Devipshita Gautam, Founder and General Secretary of AHP, adds:

"This isn’t just a competition—it’s a tribute to intent and craftsmanship. As we host the 8th edition, we reaffirm that hospitality is more than service—it’s a calling, deserving pride and visibility."

The event culminates in a grand recognition ceremony on 30th July, where AHP will present the Hospitality Excellence Awards 2025, Tourism Excellence Awards, and Food Awards. The honours will celebrate individuals and institutions alike—from chefs and housekeepers to boutique hotels and sustainable dining brands—that define excellence in India’s hospitality industry.

As a not-for-profit organisation registered under the Societies Registration Act of 1860, AHP continues to elevate India’s hospitality community through skill competitions, award platforms, training initiatives, and industry collaborations—fueling pride, performance, and progress in one of the world’s most human-centric professions.

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