Sofitel plans eight properties in Asia in two years' time

Sofitel will plant eight new properties in the region with a timeline for opening from now to the next two years. Most will be concentrated in the current economic powerhouses of China and India.

Kick starting the growth was Sofitel Dongguan Humen Oriental, which launched in August. The 409-room property, part of the multi-use Huang He Commercial tower, is CBD located and caters to the business traveller with seven meeting rooms, a grand ballroom accommodating 1,000 guests, and business centres.

The chain's other hallmarks such as butler services, SoFit and SoSpa – the Sofitel branded gym and spa – are available as well as an an indoor pool and tennis courts.

Next in line is the Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra, due to open on December 11 this year. This smaller 201-room property also consists of seven meeting rooms and a grand ballroom, measuring 1,800sqm, that can be used for car exhibitions. The off-duty guest can use the sports centre, consisting of a gym, swimming pool, kids' club and squash courts.

According to Michel Molliet, vice-president Sofitel, Greater China, 65 percent of demand in China comes from the burgeoning domestic market, a figure expected to rise by 15 percent in the coming years. To capitalise on this robust growth, three more properties will be added by the first half of 2011, Sofitel Qingdao, Sofitel Shanghai Jing’an and Sofitel Guangzhou Sunrich, which will have the biggest room inventory in the country at 493 rooms plus having 17 meeting rooms (see story here).

Sofitel makes its debut in India next year with Sofitel Mumbai Bandra Kurla in the emerging CBD, Bandra Kurla Complex. With 302 rooms, five meeting rooms, a grand ballroom for 265 guests and a business centre, the hotel is strongly targeted at corporate business. Other facilites include the SoSpa, SoFitness and an outdoor swimming pool.

Bangkok's continuously expanding hotel inventory will see the Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit and Sofitel So arrive in the later part of 2011.

For more information, visit www.sofitel.com

Alisha Haridasani