With multi-market debut of award-winning Waldorf Astoria, Conrad and LXR brands, Hilton will offer more than 50 luxury hotels in Asia-Pacific over the coming years
Leading global hospitality company Hilton (NYSE: HLT) has announced six landmark signings in Asia Pacific (APAC) across its portfolio of luxury brands – Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts and LXR Hotels & Resorts – in the year to date, a mark of growing optimism in luxury travel across the region.
With the signing of Waldorf Astoria Xi’an, Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan, Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur, Waldorf Astoria Sydney, Conrad Nagoya and an LXR Hotels & Resorts property in Bali, Hilton’s pipeline of luxury hotels in the region increases to 20.
When these hotels open in the coming years, travellers will enjoy an exquisite portfolio of more than 50 luxury hotels across Asia Pacific.
With a growing middle class, increased consumer spending and an underserved lodging market, Asia Pacific presents a US$10 trillion consumption growth opportunity over the next decade.
Clarence Tan, senior vice president, Development, Asia Pacific, Hilton said, “Hilton is Asia Pacific’s fastest growing hospitality company. Our recent signings and robust pipeline reflect the confidence that owners, developers and investors have in Hilton to capture growing demand and deliver strong returns in APAC’s most sought-after destinations.
“As we continue to pursue quality organic growth and enhance our network effect, we purposefully prioritize the right partnerships to deploy the right brands in the right locations. The future of luxury travel presents immense opportunities for growth.
“While owners and developers are increasingly optimistic about the luxury travel sector, they remain highly selective when it comes to partners and brands that will optimize their yield and look to Hilton with confidence to expand their business.”
Post-pandemic recovery has prompted increasing owner and developer interest in hospitality real estate, as the APAC hotel investment volume in 2021 grew 46% year-on-year to exceed US$12 billion, and investors focused on acquiring luxury or resort assets.
The luxury travel segment is also expected to burgeon as 42% of APAC consumers who intend to take an international trip seek out luxury experiences.
Nils-Arne Schroeder, vice president, Luxury, Asia Pacific, Hilton, said, “The strength and recognition of our luxury brands are key drivers of growth for our luxury portfolio in Asia Pacific. With more destinations in Asia Pacific becoming increasingly attractive to luxury travellers today, we are seeing a growing demand for our brands which are known globally for providing unforgettable stays, delivered with unrivalled hospitality and intuitive, personalised service.
“The future of luxury travel in this region is brighter than ever, as our portfolio of luxury brands continue to enter exciting new markets and elevate the benchmark of luxury hospitality to new heights.”
Hilton’s latest signings mark a further closing of key city gaps as its award-winning luxury brands debut or expand in key travel destinations such as Japan, Australia, Malaysia, Indonesia and China.
China in particular holds great potential in shaping the future of luxury travel as it is home to the world’s largest consumer economy and is set to become the largest luxury goods market by 2025.
Travel demand is also shifting as the country’s new generation of young and discerning travelers seeks higher levels of personalization, wellbeing, sustainability and quality in their luxury travel experience.
The signings of Waldorf Astoria in Xi’an and Shanghai Qiantan put the brand on track to double its portfolio in China and offer its unrivalled luxury in eight world-class hotels.
When open, Waldorf Astoria Xi’an will be one of the tallest buildings in this ancient capital of the 13 Dynasties. Designed by the famed design firm, Yabu Pushelberg, the hotel will draw inspiration from the city’s rich millennia-old culture and integrate oriental elegance into modern design.
Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan will mark the city’s second Waldorf Astoria hotel. Located in Shanghai’s brand-new CBD – the New Bund area – the hotel will boast panoramic views of the Huangpu River and immerse guests in the tranquility and
glamour of China’s commercial capital.
Today, there are more than a dozen Conrad hotels operating in China. When the other nine hotels in the country’s pipeline open – including Conrad Shenzhen and Conrad Chongqing next year – guests will be able to enjoy the discreet yet sophisticated luxury that the brand is known for in more than 20 destinations.
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