Movenpick Hotels & Resorts is on the move again in Asia after a long drought, promising openings over the next three years in Singapore (mid-2010), the Thai resort of Pattaya and Indian IT centre Bangalore (2012).
The chain with Swiss roots previously had a small presence in the region, notably Beijing, but pulled out after a while.
It returned to Asia in 2006 with the meetings-oriented Movenpick Resort & Spa Karon Beach Phuket, launching on the resort island which was still emerging from effects of a devastating tsunami. Movenpick Hotel Saigon and Movenpick Hotel Hanoi grew the portfolio in 2008.
According to Christina Bartz, vice-president sales and marketing Asia, guests can expect a culture that’s “passionately Swiss”, meaning efficient service, contemporary interiors with a fresh twist and memorable dining outlets.
“Quality F&B is our trademark,” said Bartz. “We’re known for our food presentation and fresh ingredients.” The Movenpick ice-cream brand, which is no longer related to the hotel company, having been bought by Nestle some years ago, is only sold in the various properties such as Phuket by special arrangement.
The three existing hotels are takeovers and have been totally refurbished, with the Saigon property nearing completion while still maintaining business.
The Movenpick Treasure Resort Sentosa in Singapore is next to roll off the pipeline mid-2010, helping to raise the island’s tourism profile, with the Movenpick Resort & Spa Pattaya and Movenpick Hotel Bangalore following in succeeding years. By 2010, the chain hopes to achieve its objective of adding 100 hotels worldwide to its stable, with most of the expansion seen to take place in the Middle East and Africa.
For more details, visit www.moevenpick.com
Margie T Logarta
