COVID-19 impact roundup: Radisson planning ahead during the pandemic

by | 28 Apr 2020 | Portfolio

Despite COVID-19’s impact, Radisson is still planning new projects. (Photo: Radisson Blu Frankfurt am Main)

Many of Radisson Hotel Group’s hotels in China and Europe are closing temporarily or reducing their service offering due to low occupancy percentages.

Several weeks into the global COVID-19 crisis most international hotel chains have felt its devastating impact.

Radisson Hotel Group (RHG) is no exception. However, the group is looking forward and remains optimistic about the future.

We look at how RHG has been impacted and some of their plans.

COVID-19 impact on Radisson Hotel Group

Following COVID-19’s rapid spread, Radisson experienced a drastic drop in demand and occupancy at its hotels around the world. This resulted in many hotels in China and Europe closing temporarily or reducing their service offering due to low occupancy percentages.

Unsurprisingly, this has led to staff being furloughed or put on reduced-hour work weeks to save costs. Other mitigation measures have been taken to ensure the company remains liquid and can continue operations during the crisis.

A strong commitment to guests

Since many guests now can’t or don’t want to go on previously booked trips, Radisson has implemented a generous cancellation and rebooking policy. All existing and new bookings for RHG hotels around the world for stays until June 30, 2020, can now be cancelled or changed for free.

Guests who regularly stay at Radisson hotels and are members of the loyalty program will be happy to hear that expiration dates for points have been pushed back by six months.

People who do travel during this time are being accommodated with extra care. All operating RHG hotels are strictly following the latest hygiene guidelines and recommendations by the World Health Organisation. This includes increased cleaning and sanitation frequency, as well as handling suspected and confirmed cases correctly. The aim is to provide a safe haven for guests and make them feel as comfortable as possible during this time.

Looking ahead

While dealing with this crisis is taking up a lot of bandwidth, Radisson is not coming to a standstill in other areas. The company is still determined to grow its portfolio and open properties currently in the pipeline, although some will be delayed.

An example of the group’s ongoing commitment to growth and expansion is its recent announcement of the Radisson Blu Hotel Nanjing South New Town. This property will be at the heart of Nanjing’s new CBD and offer everything today’s business traveller needs, including vast meeting and events facilities and leisure amenities like a pool and fitness centre. The opening is planned for 2024.

ABOUT THE CHAIN

 

Radisson Hotel Group is one of the world's largest hotel groups with several distinctive brands and more than 1,400 properties in operation or under development globally.