Radisson Hotel Group is aiming to double its portfolio in South Africa and is aiming to reach 25 hotels by 2030. The expansion strategy, coupled with Radisson’s recent updates to its existing properties across the country, are part of the group’s efforts to strengthen its footprint in South Africa.
Radisson is planning to achieve its goal through either management or franchise models and conversions for quicker market entry. The group will also be exploring partnerships with management companies to increase its presence.
Radisson’s expansion plans for South Africa might see the potential launch of the Radisson Individuals brand in the country, an “ideal first step” for individual hotels with robust service scores who are considering transitioning to Radisson’s brands at a later stage, said Daniel Trappler, senior director of development, Sub-Sahara Africa at Radisson Hotel Group.
“We are also seeking opportunities to expand our upper-upscale portfolio and enter the lifestyle luxury market in Cape Town with our Radisson Collection and art’otel brands, leveraging the city’s strong tourism performance and our successful existing portfolio.”
Radisson has been making major upgrades to its South African portfolio, which includes the debut of its first Safari hotel. The opening of Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit in February marked Radisson’s first safari hotel and its 13th hotel in the country. Offering views of the Drakensberg mountains, the highest mountain range in Southern Africa, the hotel features premium amenities and services.
The group will be expanding into safari and leisure destinations, such the Kruger National Park and Winelands region surrounding Cape Town, Trappler said. Radisson is also targeting secondary cities with strong hotel demand generators, including Bloemfontein, Pretoria, Durban and East London. The group is also considering exploring venturing into smaller tertiary cities and towns, Trappler added.
RENOVATIONS
The Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel, Sandton Johannesburg is currently undergoing major refurbishments, with 60% of the rooms already completed. Renovations include upgraded wooden flooring, stone countertops, local artworks and technological upgrades like smart TVs. This two-phase refurbishment project has already completed its first phase, which includes a complete refresh of all floors and corridors.
The Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront, Cape Town has announced refurbishment plans. The first phase will be completed by September, while the public atrium and bedrooms scheduled to be renovated by July.
REBRANDING
Radisson announced in April that it will be rebranding Park Inn Cape Town Foreshore to Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore. The conversion will bring the Radisson brand to South Africa’s ‘Mother City.’
As part of the rebranding, the hotel will undergo an eight-month renovation to all 120 rooms, which will sport a modern décor. The hotel now includes a new restaurant with an interactive open-plan kitchen setting.
“Our ongoing growth in South Africa underscore 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 experiences guests can expect from our hotels,” said Sandra Kneubuhler, country director of sales and district director, South Africa at Radisson Hotel Group.