Dear Insiders,
Berlin's newest 5 star hotel, the Rocco Forte Hotel de Rome, is finally able to shine in the glory for which it was destined. And that not entirely unduly: Yet the British won't be leaving London just yet: The society sparkle of the English capital that Sir Rocco is so used to with its well attended lunches and tea times will not be seen at dumping price-Berlin.
Late at night, gathered around their last glass of wine after dinner, branch insiders know: "This hotel won't turn up a ROI". "Nice, but not possible." "Just one restaurant in which occupancy stood at a mere 30 percent in the first couple of weeks, that won't last long." The new General Manager Thies Sponholz was also the source of a little commotion. As colleagues in Berlin reported the next day, he managed to free himself from obviously still existing contractual obligations as Managing Director of a medical Park in Bad Wiessee. The 37 year old must have realised that Rocco Forte and Berlin look much better on a CV than some no-name hotel in Bavaria.
Now, the second Rocco Forte has opened. The third in Munich is to follow, if all goes to plan in July 2007. But the more Forte managers we spoke to, the more varied the dates became. Sir Rocco will know: My impression is: In terms of style and concept, the hotels are very well tailored to their local market, but the English overestimate their position and influence in the German market. I remain sceptical despite wishing new ideas and new hoteliers in Germany well. In particular I wish Berlin and Sir Rocco Forte all the best - time will tell, and without a doubt we'll soon have to review our first impressions printed here today.
In Wiesbaden meanwhile, the Nassauer Hof is thinking about its future. Choice Hotels Europe, on the other hand, have already made their decision. The European, little known Luxury Lifestyle Hotels see their future in the USA, the German City Partner Hotels in Eastern Europe. And the intellectual property court in Alicante has set a new precedent in the interpretation and use of the word "Spa" in brand names. Above all, their last judgement will have repercussions for the future.
Lots to be read in the large articles then, and more exciting news in the small news. And all for you!
Yours, Maria Puetz-Willems
Editor-in-Chief
Remarks? maria@hospitalityInside.com