Luxury hotel group Mandarin Oriental has revealed plans to substantially increase the size of its hotel portfolio in China, over the next decade.
Growth in China will be part of an accelerated growth strategy being followed by the brand, as it looks to increase its presence globally. And it follows the recent launch of the group’s tenth hotel in China, the Mandarin Oriental Qianmen, Beijing.
A focus on growth in Asia
The group now intends to double its portfolio in China, over the next decade. It has already committed to Chinese projects with hotels to come in Tianfu in Chengdu, Hangzhou, and Nanjing.
Not just China, but the Asian region more generally is an increasing area of focus for Mandarin Oriental. Its regional hotels posted a 13% increase in revenues during the first half of 2024, the best performing of all its regions. Revpar in Asia also grew at double the rate of other regions, as travel across the region bounced back after the pandemic.
“Chinese travellers are some of the most sophisticated and discerning in the world – they continue to be among the most important customers to us as we accelerate our growth plans internationally over the next ten years,” said Mandarin Oriental group chief executive Laurent Kleitman. “Our new strategy will ensure that we are able to offer an elevated luxury experience to our guests with unparalleled service and innovative experiences which will feel truly unique in the marketplace.”
For Mandarin Oriental, expansion in Asia harks back to the group’s local roots. The Oriental opened in Bangkok almost 150 years ago, while the Mandarin opened in Hong Kong in 1963.
As of late 2024, Mandarin Oriental operates 41 hotels, 12 residences and 24 exclusive homes in 26 countries around the world, after welcoming 2024 openings in Muscat, London and Beijing. Among recent signings are a project in Abu Dhabi, which will see 228 residences developed by Aldar on Saadiyat Island. In Mexico, Mandarin Oriental Kanai, Riviera Maya will open in 2028, offering guests the choice of 120 rooms and suites, alongside 50 spacious branded residences. And the group has reopened Mandarin Oriental, Canouan in St. Vincent and The Grenadines, after it was closed due to the passage of Hurricane Beryl.
New projects in Europe
Also in the pipeline are a trio of boutique hotels in Japan; and a new hotel in Budapest formed from the restoration of the city’s landmark Gellert Hotel. In Rome, a new Mandarin Oriental will be created by combining ten historic villas, while a resort is also in development in Bali, on the Bukit peninsula.
While retaining its renowned luxury service levels, the group will also be updating its procedures by deploying new technologies. And it is developing its Wellness 2.0 concept, to innovate in the areas of health and wellness for its guests and spa visitors.
