“A specialist in upscale and mid-range properties” is how Far East Hospitality defines its unique selling proposition.
The company claims to be Singapore’s largest hotel and serviced residences operator, with eight in the first category and 10 in the second (including Sri Tiara residences in Kuala Lumpur) – or 3,400 units in total. And it aims to expand activity in the Lion City further still, as well as explore management opportunities overseas.
Arthur Kiong, Far East Hospitality’s chief executive officer, said their Singapore-centric programme, which includes adding new member properties and refurbishing existing ones, is driven by ever-growing tourist arrivals. “These are expected to rise 6.6 per cent annually from now until 2015, and thus, we continue to fortify our stronghold here. We have been able to stay resilient through the economic cycles by keeping a strong presence in the mid-tier to upscale sectors, and we are looking to raise and build our portfolio.”
These efforts, Kiong said, will benefit the group’s four brands – Oasia, Quincy, Village and Far East Collection – all of which tackle visitors’ needs for short and long-term accommodation, whether on business or leisure.
A promising niche that Far East Hospitality has identified is medical travel, with Kiong reporting that about 850,000 medical travellers were observed to have chosen Singapore to undergo procedures and recuperate in. Oasia Hotel, adjacent to the Novena Specialist Centre (see news), which opened in April, is well located to cater to this particular clientele.
The company's newest offering, Village, which boasts a rich sense of place, will launch East Village Hotel in the East Coast district in early 2013.
For corporates, the group is progressively rolling out free wifi service throughout its properties.
For more about Far East Hospitality, visit www.stayfareast.com
Margie T Logarta
