News & Stories
Wiesbaden. The deaths of two British tourists in Hurghada, Egypt, who were guests at the Steigenberger Aqua Magic Hotel, have made huge waves in international media this week. Tour operator Thomas Cook, which the couple used to book their holiday, has meanwhile offered guests alternative accommodation. Autopsies are in the process of being carried out. Even if no responsibility can be laid at the door of the hotel for the deaths, the damage for the brand is growing by the day. Lawyer Dr Christian Zerr, an experienced franchise expert and partner at the Munich law firm Graf von Westphalen, explains the legal situation for franchisees and franchisors in such a case.
Beijing. Pictures of unusual travel experiences are the means for young Chinese to strengthen their "social brand". Whoever can send mobile phone photos of high-tech accommodations and exotic delicacies on trips abroad is simply hip. Luxury shopping is losing interest.
Vienna. "1+1 = 3. This is innovation for me," says Rupert Simoner, CEO at the hotel group Vienna House based in Vienna. His most recent innovative product is called R.evo – a hybrid hotel brand with three components under one roof: hotel, living and serviced apartments. It is a coincidence that the first property with 607 different units will be built in Munich. The concept, however, is no coincidence, as Simoner explained: "I always got restless when it came to rigid standard rooms." Now, everything traditional is being tested and the team is reflecting about service and guests' focus as well as digitalization and monetarisation.
Beijing/Brussels. The Chinese conglomerate HNA keeps on selling assets and is exiting the hospitality world by the back door. On the other hand, Chinese conglomerate Jin Jiang is on the rise with the acquisition of Radisson Hospitality but will face problems with the integration phase. To talk about the rise and fall of HNA and the low-profile strategy adopted by Jin Jiang, hospitalityInside.com contacted several experts in Asia, but they all declined to answer questions involving the words "Chinese government". Nonetheless, we found ourselves an expert based in Europe who was willing to talk 'but off the record'. The background of this Chinese chess is highly interesting and raises further questions about what's left on the market for other Western chains under investment pressure.
Madrid/New York. Amadeus takes over rival TravelClick for 1.52 billion dollars. The deal will significantly expand Amadeus' presence in the hospitality sector. Bad news for Sabre that, up to now, had an edge on Amadeus when it comes to serving hotels.
Florence. The Scottish entrepreneur Charlie MacGregor is in a comfortable position: His idea of combining a modern student campus with an accommodation solution for young professionals and a hotel for traditional guests was well received by wealthy investors providing sums for expansion in the hundreds of millions. Massimiliano Sarti met the founder of The Student Hotel Group in Florence at the opening of the newest property. Operating 11 hotels today, the group plans to reach 65 before the end of 2023. All sources of revenue are welcome to achieve this goal.
Dublin. At Whatsapp itself, no news was to be found in this regard until yesterday, though the messenger service had already announced on Wednesday in the US, that the new service "Whatsapp Business API" will in future incur a charge. Companies must therefore pay to communicate with their customers. And from 2019, there will also be advertisements on WhatsApp.
Chicago/Madrid. In less than five days, Hyatt made a non-binding offer to take over Spanish NH hotels and withdrew it unexpectedly. Hyatt wasn't aware that Minor International has secured the control of 44% of the company and intends to take 100% control. In desperate need for growth, Hyatt may have missed an opportunity.
Fontainebleau. Political allegiance has a critical role in the decision to buy luxury goods. New empirical research shows that conservative shoppers are much more likely than their liberal counterparts to purchase luxury items if and when they believe the purchase will help them maintain their social status. Tests with luxury cars, eyewear and headphones revealed big gaps between the representatives of the two political parties.
Tasks at Taj
Delhi. Puneet Chhatwal exudes calmness as a whole. Soft spoken yet firm, he speaks in a measured tone after thoughtful pauses. He radiates a certain positivity. And, that sense of joy to be finally home after 28 years of being away from India, to take over as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Indian Hotels Company Limited, the most iconic India hospitality chain with its legendary Taj brand, the young Ginger brand and Vivanta. The group dates back to 1903 and, currently operates 145 hotels globally across four continents, with another 20 under development. From leveraging the iconic brand, to making it profitable and digitally relevant, to and minimizing its carbon footprint and, strategizing to remain on top, Puneet Chhatwal has his plate full. He talked to hospitalityInside's author in India, Hoihnu Hauzel about the journey ahead.