Swiss-Belhotel advances African entry

Pictured, l-r: Stella Wanyoike and Antony Wanyoike of NIBS Resort Company, Laurent Voivenel of Swiss-Belhotel, and Lizzie Wanyoike and Eric Wanyoike of NIBS Resort Company.
Swiss-Belhotel International will be carrying out a rebranding project on what will become the firm’s first African operating site, located in Kenyan capital, Nairobi.

The global hotel management group signed an agreement with the Nairobi Institute of Business Studies (NIBS) Resort Company Limited to manage what will be known as Swiss-Belinn Nairobi.

Complete rebranding

This collaboration underscores Swiss-Belhotel International’s strategic expansion plans in Africa, following its 125-key pipeline project in Tanzania, Swiss-Belresort Zanzibar.

Swiss-Belhotel will soon begin implementing its international standards and enhancements at the Kenyan site, targeting a complete rebranding to Swiss-Belinn Nairobi by 15 January 2024. 

Current offering

Nestled in the Kileleshwa neighbourhood, the hotel features 89 rooms, nine well-equipped meeting rooms and a gym. 

The property also offers an all-day dining restaurant and a rooftop bar with panoramic views of Nairobi’s skyline.

Positive influence

Kenyan entrepreneur and founder of NIBS, Lizzie Wanyoike, attended the agreement’s signing ceremony along with her family, Antony, Stella and Eric Wanyoike, the directors of NIBS Resort Company Limited. 

The Wanyoikes stated: “Swiss-Belhotel International’s reputation for excellence is well-known. We believe their presence in Nairobi, through the Swiss-Belinn brand, will positively influence and diversify the city’s hospitality offerings.”

Expansion alignment

Gavin M Faull, chairman and president of Swiss-Belhotel International, remarked: “We are proud to introduce the Swiss-Belinn brand in the exciting destination of Nairobi.

“Entering Kenya, and specifically Nairobi, with a reputable partner like NIBS Resort Company Limited, aligns perfectly with our global expansion plans. It is the first operating hotel for our group in Africa and therefore marks a significant milestone for us.”

Growth markets

Laurent A Voivenel, the brand’s senior vice president – operations and development, EMEA and India added: “The Middle East and Africa are key growth markets for us.

“With recent tourism data indicating healthy growth in Africa, and Nairobi emerging as a key destination, Swiss-Belhotel International’s debut is aptly timed. We look forward to delivering on our brand promise at Swiss-Belinn Nairobi.”

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