Cross Hotels and Resorts, one of Asia’s fastest growing hotel and resort operators, has set its sights on the burgeoning Chinese travel market and hosted a series of road shows in three key cities. After a successful year that saw eight new hotels open across its trinity of brands, three key company executives are now pitching Cross Hotels and Resorts unique products to a wider audience.
The People’s Republic of China is the world’s most populous country with an estimated population of 1.404 billion citizens, of which less than 10% holds a passport. According to official data, China’s GDP in 2018 was US$13.28 trillion with tourism contributing $1.35 billion. A newly rich middle class and an easing of restrictions on movement are fueling a travel boom that saw 139 million outbound trips and five billion domestic trips.
Cross Hotels and Resorts has continued to post favorable results with consolidated hotel revenue increasing by 80% and its operating portfolio of hotels and resorts registering a 39% rise. The company continues to seek out new destinations with Bali and rising star Vietnam joining the group with newly branded properties. A dedication to guest satisfaction has led to three of the company’s hotels being rated #1 on TripAdvisor.
“Thailand is the number one travel destination for Chinese travellers and the local market continues to mature thanks to new technologies, differentiating buying behaviors and unique requirements. Therefore, this road show reinforces to the market that we want to learn more from our key accounts and strengthen our relationships as we enter the next phase of development. Taiwan is bucking all current trends and growing monthly and we are excited to have penetrated this market for the first time.” said Paul Wilson, Executive Vice President – Commercial.
The potential for further growth in the Chinese tourism sector is staggering as travel controls are eased and millions more tourists head for departure gates at airports across the country. 82% of the entire travelling population of China range from 18-39 years of age. Cross Hotels & Resorts current brand portfolio directly offers tapered experiences for this large segment.
The Cross Hotels and Resorts road show took in Shanghai, Guangzhou and Taiwan with strategic showcase events, presentations and media luncheons. Company executives also met with new, old and prospective clients during the four-day tour.
“With China being one of the largest markets for Cross Hotels and Resorts, we offer dedicated focus on cultural nuances and language capability at all our hotels and resorts. We value our relationships with our Chinese partners and are here to build on them. Truly understanding “Asian” hospitality, we look forward to mutual collaboration across a range of tourism-related areas,” said Harry Thaliwal, Executive Vice President – Operations.
Cross Hotels and Resorts currently operates 24 properties across Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam with a further 2,000 rooms under development.
