Marriott International and KKR Revolutionize Midscale Hospitality in Japan

Marriott International and KKR Revolutionize Midscale Hospitality in Japan

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on May 10, 2024

Marriott International and KKR, a prominent global investment firm, are spearheading a new era in midscale hospitality in Japan. Building on KKR’s recent acquisition of Unizo Hotel Company, Limited, along with a portfolio of 14 hotels from Unizo Holdings, the collaboration marks Marriott’s debut in Japan’s affordable midscale market and its first footprint in the Asia Pacific region following its global launch in this segment in 2023.

These 14 hotels, strategically located across major tourist destinations in 10 cities including Hakodate, Morioka, Utsunomiya, Yokohama, Kanazawa, Nagoya, Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, and Hakata, are set to undergo transformation into Four Points Express by Sheraton. Anticipated to open in the latter half of 2024, the venture will introduce over 3,600 new rooms to KKR’s and Marriott’s hotel portfolios in Japan.

Four Points Express by Sheraton aims to provide budget-conscious travelers with a seamless hotel experience, emphasizing reliability, simplicity, and value in both design and guest services. This tailored approach reflects Marriott’s commitment to meeting evolving guest needs while offering franchisees a competitive pricing strategy designed to foster growth.

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Rajeev Menon, President, Marriott International, Asia Pacific excluding China, said, "There's a growing consumer demand for reliable-yet-affordable accommodation in the region. Our goal is to be everywhere our guests want us to be, with the right property in the right location, at the right price point. This collaboration with KKR will expand our ability to do exactly that – starting in Japan, with opportunity to grow our midscale presence in the region. Our new midscale brand will offer hotel owners an affordable conversion opportunity with an efficient operational design, access to Marriott International’s expansive distribution systems and the backing of our powerful award-winning Marriott Bonvoy travel program.”

Kensuke Kudo, Managing Director, Real Estate, at KKR, said, “International and domestic tourism in Japan has rebounded strongly since the pandemic and continues to pick up pace. As demand for midscale hotels grows rapidly, we see a tremendous opportunity to offer high-quality and comfortable accommodation at great value. We are delighted to be strategic partners with Marriott International, one of the world’s pre-eminent hotel companies, to launch the Four Points Express by Sheraton brand in Japan. By combining KKR’s real estate investment and operational expertise and Marriott’s deep hospitality experience, we look to deliver outstanding-yet-affordable lodging experiences to international and domestic travelers across Japan.”

Aligned with Marriott’s acclaimed Marriott Bonvoy® loyalty platform, which boasts over 200 million members worldwide, the new midscale brand will leverage Marriott’s global sales organization and digital platforms to drive efficient direct bookings.

This transformative partnership between Marriott International and KKR represents a significant milestone in Japan’s hospitality landscape, promising travelers unparalleled experiences and hotel owners exciting growth opportunities in the midscale segment.


Cross Hotels & Resorts Unveils New Hybrid Hotel Brand Lumen in Bangkok

Cross Hotels & Resorts Unveils New Hybrid Hotel Brand Lumen in Bangkok

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 20, 2024

Cross Hotels & Resorts has introduced a groundbreaking hotel brand, Lumen, marking its debut with the opening of Lumen Bangkok Udomsuk Station. This new brand reflects the company's dedication to creating tailored guest experiences that capture the essence of their respective locales under the tagline ‘A Brighter Way to Stay’.

Lumen hotels are designed to immerse guests in the local culture and feature unique signatures that resonate with the destination. “Lumen is a distinctive brand that seamlessly blends the hotel experience with the local neighborhood, enriching guests' stays with genuine local interactions,” said Harry Thaliwal, CEO of Cross Hotels & Resorts.

The newly opened Lumen Bangkok Udomsuk Station boasts 102 guest rooms and a variety of dining options, catering to the tastes and preferences of every guest. The hotel’s facilities include a rooftop infinity pool, a modern gym, a family-friendly game room, and a versatile co-working space complete with a boardroom. Additionally, guests can enjoy around-the-clock service at the hotel’s 24-hour bar.

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Strategically located for both leisure and business travelers, the hotel offers easy access to Suvarnabhumi International Airport, making it an ideal choice for international visitors.

This partnership between Cross Hotels & Resorts and Italmar (Thailand) builds on the success of their previous joint venture, Cross Vibe Bangkok Sukhumvit, launched in 2017. Direk Vongvairoj, Chairman of Italmar (Thailand), expressed enthusiasm about the new venture, stating, “Lumen represents an innovative concept in hotel development, especially for Udomsuk and the eastern part of Bangkok.”

Cross Hotels & Resorts continues to expand its portfolio, which currently includes 28 properties across Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, and Vietnam, under six distinct brands. The launch of Lumen is a testament to the company’s ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in the hospitality industry.

For more details about reservations and the unique offerings at Lumen Bangkok Udomsuk Station, visit the Cross Hotels & Resorts website. This new brand promises a refreshing approach to hospitality, ensuring that each stay is not just a visit but a rich, culturally immersive experience.


Chinese Luxury Travel Insights from Marriott International

Chinese Luxury Travel Insights from Marriott International

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on May 19, 2024

In a collaboration with Jing Daily, Marriott International has unveiled a compelling report titled “Luxury Explored: Chinese Luxury Travelers' Evolving Desires,” shedding light on the changing landscape of luxury travel in China.

Bart Buiring, Managing Director, Luxury, Greater China, Marriott International, said “Understanding the evolving desires of Chinese luxury travelers is paramount for us to continue delivering exceptional experiences that resonate with our guests. The findings in this report reaffirm our commitment to champion innovation, authenticity, and personalized service, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of China's dynamic luxury travel market.” 

The report provides a thorough overview of the Chinese luxury travel segment, highlighting its rapid growth driven by factors like increased affluence and discretionary spending power. Luxury travel in China has evolved into a pursuit of exclusivity, authenticity, and cultural immersion, with travelers seeking bespoke experiences tailored to their tastes.

Marriott International Luxury Group, with their diverse portfolio of eight luxury brands, is leading the charge in catering to the changing preferences of today's luxury travelers. The group focuses on creating unique brand experiences that resonate with modern travelers' quest for exclusivity and personal growth.

Key Factors Influencing Change in the Chinese Luxury Travel Market:

Attitude Shifts: Mature travelers prioritize exclusivity, while the younger generation seeks uniqueness and community-based experiences.

Digital Influence: The proliferation of digital platforms and social media has shaped consumer perceptions and fueled demand for unique, Instagram-worthy experiences.

Experiential Luxury: Affluent Chinese travelers seek meaningful encounters that foster cultural exchange, intellectual stimulation, and spiritual rejuvenation, moving beyond mere opulence to create lasting memories.

As the Chinese luxury travel market continues to evolve, there are ample opportunities for businesses to capitalize on growing demand. By embracing sustainability, wellness, and experiential enrichment, stakeholders can forge deeper connections and foster brand loyalty in this competitive landscape.

Understanding the nuanced motivations and aspirations of Chinese luxury travelers is crucial for unlocking the full potential of this growing market segment. Embracing innovation, fostering collaboration, and prioritizing authenticity will be key in shaping the future of luxury travel in China.


Hyatt Debuts First Hotel in Zimbabwe with the Opening of Hyatt Regency Harare The Meikles

Hyatt Debuts First Hotel in Zimbabwe with the Opening of Hyatt Regency Harare The Meikles

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 17, 2024

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has achieved a significant milestone with the opening of the Hyatt Regency Harare The Meikles, marking the brand's entry into Zimbabwe's hospitality market. Situated in the bustling city center of Harare, this landmark hotel combines the grandeur of its historical origins dating back to 1915 with contemporary luxury, providing a unique gateway for exploring Zimbabwe's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

The Hyatt Regency Harare The Meikles, following extensive renovations, now boasts 312 modern guest rooms offering stunning views of Africa Unity Square. The hotel's prime location ensures that guests are just steps away from key attractions such as the National Gallery and Harare Gardens, as well as various markets rich with local crafts and produce.

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For those traveling for business, the hotel features 21,500 square feet of versatile meeting and event space equipped with the latest technology. Leisure travelers can enjoy a range of amenities including a world-class dining experience at The Kitchen, an all-day dining restaurant, sophisticated afternoon teas, and vibrant cocktail hours at the bar. Additional facilities include a luxury spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a pool deck that offers panoramic views of the city.

Tinashe Munjoma, the hotel’s general manager, expressed pride in the launch: “We are honored to continue the legacy of this esteemed property and introduce the renowned Hyatt Regency guest experience to Zimbabwe. This grand opening not only marks a milestone for the country’s hospitality industry but also demonstrates Hyatt’s commitment to expanding its footprint in new and emerging markets.”

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The Hyatt Regency Harare The Meikles is set to play a pivotal role in enhancing Zimbabwe’s tourism landscape, attracting global travelers in search of diverse cultural experiences and unparalleled hospitality.

With its strategic expansion into Zimbabwe, Hyatt Hotels Corporation continues to strengthen its global portfolio by integrating local charm with its signature luxury, ensuring that every stay at the Hyatt Regency Harare The Meikles is nothing short of extraordinary. For more information on bookings and services, visit the Hyatt Hotels website.

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