Radisson Hotel Group has announced its goal to reach 25 hotels in South Africa by 2030, effectively doubling its current portfolio.
This ambitious expansion along with the group’s recent updates to its South African portfolio underscores its commitment to strengthening its presence and contributing to the growth of the South African hospitality industry.
Daniel Trappler, Senior Director of Development, Sub-Sahara Africa at Radisson Hotel Group, shared insights into the Group's strategic approach to reach its ambitious goal of 25 hotels by 2030, stating: "We are prioritising, through either management or franchise models, conversions for quicker market entry and exploring strategic collaborations with existing management companies to increase our footprint, which presents the potential introduction of the Radisson Individuals brand to South Africa, an ideal first step for individual hotels with strong service scores who may be considering transitioning to one of our other successful core brands at a later stage.”
Trappler added that the hotel group is also seeking opportunities to expand its upper-upscale portfolio and enter the lifestyle luxury market in Cape Town with its Radisson Collection and art’otel brands, leveraging the city's strong tourism performance and its successful existing portfolio.
Radisson Hotel Group has announced significant updates to its portfolio of operating hotels in South Africa, including:
Debut of first safari hotel in SA
In February, Radisson Hotel Group announced the opening of Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit, its first safari hotel and 13th hotel in South Africa.
This property offers a luxurious safari experience in the heart of South Africa’s wildlife region, with views of the Drakensberg mountains, the highest mountain range in southern Africa.
“Building on the success of our recently opened Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit, we plan to expand into safari and leisure regions like the Kruger National Park and the world-renowned Winelands region surrounding Cape Town. Additionally, we are targeting secondary cities displaying strong hotel demand generators such as Bloemfontein, Pretoria, Durban, and East London, following our successes in Port Elizabeth and Polokwane. In addition, we are also exploring entry into smaller tertiary cities and towns if it aligns with our expansion strategy,” said Trappler.
Extensive refurbishments
The Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel, Sandton Johannesburg, is undergoing a significant renovation, with 60% of the hotel’s rooms already completed.
This extensive refurbishment features upgraded wooden flooring, stone countertops, local artworks, carefully crafted furniture, and technological upgrades like smart TVs and conveniently located USB ports.
This two-phase refurbishment project has already completed its first phase, with each floor and corridor renovated to showcase a new level of contemporary luxury.
The Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront, Cape Town has also announced its refurbishment plans.
Phase one is set to be completed by September, with public Atrium and bedroom renovations expected in July.
An expert team of local and international designers has meticulously reviewed and handpicked the design, artwork, fabrics, and raw materials.
Rebranding of Park Inn Foreshore
In April, Radisson announced the rebranding of Park Inn Cape Town Foreshore to Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore. This rebranding brings the well-known Radisson brand to South Africa’s Mother City.
Following an eight-month renovation, Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore’s 120 rooms now offer a fresh and modern décor, as well as views of the prominent Table Mountain and the city center.
The hotel now hosts South Africa's first Filini restaurant, offering fresh and simple Italian-style cuisine with an interactive open-plan kitchen setting.
Additionally, the Harald's Rooftop Bar & Terrace provides an ideal spot to unwind, together with a plunge pool for a complete rooftop experience.
“These significant updates to our South African portfolio reaffirm our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences across the country. Our ongoing growth in the region underscores our position as a leading force in the South African hospitality industry. This is just the beginning of a series of exciting announcements for our South African portfolio and the unmatched experiences guests can expect from our hotels,” concluded Sandra Kneubuhler, Country Director of Sales and District Director, South Africa at Radisson Hotel Group.
