Latest news with #ChrisHartley
Trade Arabia
24-04-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
GHA reports strong double-digit gains for Q1
The Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), one of the largest alliance of independent hotel brands, reported strong first-quarter results for 2025, with double-digit gains across all key metrics. The alliance's award-winning loyalty programme, GHA DISCOVERY, now commands a 30-million-strong global membership. Total hotel stay revenues reached $746 million in Q1 2025, up 15% on Q1 2024, while total room nights and Average Daily Rate increased by 3% across its portfolio of 850 hotels. Cross-brand revenue increased by 11%, driven by members staying with different hotel brands. The loyalty programme added around 850,000 new members in Q1 2025, an 8% year-on-year increase compared to Q1 2024. Redemptions of DISCOVERY Dollars (D$) rocketed 60% year-on-year, with members based in Spain, Germany, China, and Singapore leading the way. 'These results reflect the continued evolution of GHA DISCOVERY as a powerful platform for driving growth and guest loyalty,' said Chris Hartley, CEO, Global Hotel Alliance. 'We're seeing its impact deepen across every key metric – from revenue and redemptions to cross-brand engagement. With strong international travel demand and members spending more, even when redeeming rewards, our hotel brands are capturing more revenue from the programme at a lower cost of sale. Q1 2025 HIGHLIGHTS & EMERGING TRENDS: International travel dominates: International stays made by the 30 million GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme members continue to lead growth, accounting for 70% of hotel room revenues year-on-year. This reflects a sustained appetite for international travel by GHA DISCOVERY members, particularly in Asia. The Maldives and Thailand remained the top two countries for hotel room revenue from international guests (100% and 95% respectively) followed by Hong Kong SAR (84%) and the UAE (82%). Top feeder markets stable: The USA, UK, Australia, China, and Germany remained the top five international source markets for member revenues at GHA hotels in the first quarter of 2025 with the US and the UK maintaining their positions as the top two markets globally. Growth shifting: GHA DISCOVERY member international stay room revenue from China (+19%), France (+15%), and Spain (+13%) outpaced growth from the US (+3%) and UK (+10%) in Q1 2025, signalling increased outbound momentum in EMEA and Asia and a slight slowdown in outbound US travel activity during the period. Q1, 2025 destination hotspots: Thailand and Singapore were the top international choices for GHA DISCOVERY members in key feeder markets. Travellers from Germany and Russia favoured Thailand, while those in China and Australia leaned towards Singapore. UK-based members headed to the UAE, while US members chose the UK as their preferred destination. A significant portfolio boost came in March 2025, further emphasising GHA's growing attraction for independent brands, with Rotana, a leading UAE-based hospitality group, joining the alliance. With 80 hotels across the Middle East, North Africa, Eastern Europe, and Turkey, Rotana expands GHA's presence in strategic markets and strengthens its position in the UAE. 'It's been a great start to the year,' said Hartley. 'We're building on the momentum of a record 2024, continuing to grow our portfolio, and seeing strong returns from member engagement in our loyalty programme. With new brands like Rotana joining the fold and our metrics trending upward across the board, we're well-positioned for another year of solid performance.'
Zawya
24-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
GHA reports strong double-digit gains for Q1
The Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), one of the largest alliance of independent hotel brands, reported strong first-quarter results for 2025, with double-digit gains across all key metrics. The alliance's award-winning loyalty programme, GHA DISCOVERY, now commands a 30-million-strong global membership. Total hotel stay revenues reached $746 million in Q1 2025, up 15% on Q1 2024, while total room nights and Average Daily Rate increased by 3% across its portfolio of 850 hotels. Cross-brand revenue increased by 11%, driven by members staying with different hotel brands. The loyalty programme added around 850,000 new members in Q1 2025, an 8% year-on-year increase compared to Q1 2024. Redemptions of DISCOVERY Dollars (D$) rocketed 60% year-on-year, with members based in Spain, Germany, China, and Singapore leading the way. 'These results reflect the continued evolution of GHA DISCOVERY as a powerful platform for driving growth and guest loyalty,' said Chris Hartley, CEO, Global Hotel Alliance. 'We're seeing its impact deepen across every key metric – from revenue and redemptions to cross-brand engagement. With strong international travel demand and members spending more, even when redeeming rewards, our hotel brands are capturing more revenue from the programme at a lower cost of sale. Q1 2025 HIGHLIGHTS & EMERGING TRENDS: International travel dominates: International stays made by the 30 million GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme members continue to lead growth, accounting for 70% of hotel room revenues year-on-year. This reflects a sustained appetite for international travel by GHA DISCOVERY members, particularly in Asia. The Maldives and Thailand remained the top two countries for hotel room revenue from international guests (100% and 95% respectively) followed by Hong Kong SAR (84%) and the UAE (82%). Top feeder markets stable: The USA, UK, Australia, China, and Germany remained the top five international source markets for member revenues at GHA hotels in the first quarter of 2025 with the US and the UK maintaining their positions as the top two markets globally. Growth shifting: GHA DISCOVERY member international stay room revenue from China (+19%), France (+15%), and Spain (+13%) outpaced growth from the US (+3%) and UK (+10%) in Q1 2025, signalling increased outbound momentum in EMEA and Asia and a slight slowdown in outbound US travel activity during the period. Q1, 2025 destination hotspots: Thailand and Singapore were the top international choices for GHA DISCOVERY members in key feeder markets. Travellers from Germany and Russia favoured Thailand, while those in China and Australia leaned towards Singapore. UK-based members headed to the UAE, while US members chose the UK as their preferred destination. A significant portfolio boost came in March 2025, further emphasising GHA's growing attraction for independent brands, with Rotana, a leading UAE-based hospitality group, joining the alliance. With 80 hotels across the Middle East, North Africa, Eastern Europe, and Turkey, Rotana expands GHA's presence in strategic markets and strengthens its position in the UAE. 'It's been a great start to the year,' said Hartley. 'We're building on the momentum of a record 2024, continuing to grow our portfolio, and seeing strong returns from member engagement in our loyalty programme. With new brands like Rotana joining the fold and our metrics trending upward across the board, we're well-positioned for another year of solid performance.' Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
27-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Rotana, the UAE's leading hospitality company joins Global Hotel Alliance
Abu Dhabi-based Rotana will offer the 30 million members of the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme 80 additional properties to choose from across five brands in the Middle East, North Africa, Eastern Europe & Turkey Dubai, UAE: Two UAE-based hospitality powerhouses have come together in a milestone partnership as Rotana, one of the Middle East's leading hotel management companies, joins Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) – the world's largest alliance of independent hotel brands. This strategic move positions GHA among the top hospitality groups in the UAE, with an impressive portfolio of around 70 hotels offering an unrivalled choice of upscale and luxury hotels to the 30 million members of its GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme in this popular tourism destination. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, Rotana currently operates 36 hotels in the UAE, spanning popular destinations such as Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Al Ain, offering a range of hotels, from beach resorts to premium business properties. A fast-growing company, Rotana provides GHA DISCOVERY members access to an expansive portfolio of 80 properties across the Middle East, North Africa, Eastern Europe and Turkey, with more opening soon. GHA has started the integration, and all properties of Rotana's brands - Rotana Hotels & Resorts, Rayhaan Hotels & Resorts by Rotana, Centro by Rotana, Arjaan Hotel Apartments by Rotana, and Edge by Rotana - will be live in the programme in early 2026. For Rotana, joining GHA not only expands its global reach and visibility – with GHA DISCOVERY generating US$2.7 billion in revenue and 11 million room nights in 2024 – but also for current Rotana Rewards members – which will become Rotana DISCOVERY on completion of the integration - it offers an expanded range of loyalty benefits. These include: DISCOVERY Dollars (D$) where members can earn and spend D$ (with D$1 equal to US$1) at any property in the GHA DISCOVERY portfolio; rewards from the first stay and VIP benefits such as room upgrades, flexible check-in/check-out exclusive services, complimentary Wi-Fi, and more; and Local Offers – member-only access to hotel facilities, with or without a stay. Chris Hartley, CEO of Global Hotel Alliance, said: "Welcoming Rotana to GHA is a significant milestone, particularly in a region where the brand is the largest hotel operator. With Rotana commanding a growing presence across the Middle East, North Africa, Eastern Europe and Turkey, this partnership cements GHA DISCOVERY's position as a top loyalty programme both regionally and globally, giving our members access to an even greater selection of properties and destinations. With Rotana joining, we will be close to 950 hotels, and we have high hopes to hit 1,000 hotels very soon.' Rotana thus benefits from the GHA DISCOVERY's cross-brand activity – where members move between alliance brands generated US$370 million in incremental revenue last year. Philip Barnes, CEO of Rotana, added: "At Rotana, we are committed to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences, and being part of GHA enables us to extend this promise to a global audience. GHA and Rotana share the same values – offering a guest-centric approach that gives travellers choice, flexibility, and meaningful rewards. With GHA DISCOVERY, we are enhancing the benefits available to our loyal guests while expanding our reach through a world-class alliance of independent hotel brands.' For more information visit Global Hotel Alliance, GHA DISCOVERY and Rotana GHA DISCOVERY is complimentary to join, and travellers can sign up online or download the GHA DISCOVERY app and register on their mobile phones. Travellers can also connect with GHA DISCOVERY on Instagram and Facebook. Media contacts: Global Hotel Alliance Rotana Hotel Management Corporation Andrea Krenn Larisa Uskar E: E: About GHA and GHA DISCOVERY: Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) is the world's largest alliance of independent hotel brands with 45 brands and 850 hotels in 100 countries. Its award-winning loyalty programme—GHA DISCOVERY—provides 30 million members recognition, D$ rewards and exclusive experiences across its hotels and partners, both with and without a stay. GHA DISCOVERY generated US$2.7 billion in revenue and 11 million room nights in 2024. Through membership in GHA, brands expand their global reach, drive incremental revenue and reduce dependence on third-party channels, all while maintaining management independence and individual positioning. For more information, visit or About Rotana: Rotana currently manages a portfolio of over 114 operational and pipeline properties throughout the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe, and Türkiye, with an aggressive expansion plan in place. Rotana has chosen to acknowledge how precious time is by making all time spent in their range of hotels 'Treasured Time'. This means Rotana has pledged to understand and meet the individual needs of all guests. In so doing, Rotana has evolved its product brands to include Rotana Hotels & Resorts, Centro Hotels by Rotana, Rayhaan Hotels & Resorts by Rotana, Arjaan Hotel Apartments by Rotana, Edge by Rotana, and The Residences by Rotana. Treasured Time. The Rotana promise to you.
Zawya
24-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Global Hotel Alliance showcases India's luxury hospitality
As India's luxury travel sector experiences unprecedented growth, Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) and two of its hotel brands – The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts and Minor Hotels – have reaffirmed their commitment to the market, unveiling new initiatives to elevate the country's high-end hospitality landscape. India is a key development market for GHA, with GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme membership in the country growing by 18% in 2024 to 623,000 members. The Leela and Minor Hotels are both tapping into this demand with new luxury offerings appealing to high-end Indian travellers. In a notable shift, international spend by Indian GHA DISCOVERY members (54%) surpassed domestic revenue (46%) for the first time, with Thailand, the UAE, and Singapore as the top international destinations. The Indian travel market's significant growth potential was highlighted at two events staged in Delhi this week, with GHA citing recent research and The Leela and Minor Hotels discussing their market strategies and development plans. Speaking at the Skift India Forum on 18th March, Chris Hartley, CEO, GHA, and Anuraag Bhatnagar, CEO, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, revealed how luxury hotel brands are responding to India's burgeoning demand for premium experiences. The conversation continued at a press briefing hosted at The Leela Palace, New Delhi the following day, where Hartley, Bhatnagar and Dillip Rajakarier, CEO, Minor Hotels, highlighted India's growing influence in global travel and luxury hospitality. These discussions explored key trends, including evolving guest preferences, the impact of loyalty programmes, and the future of ultra-luxury hospitality. 'The rapid growth of India's luxury travel market is reflected in the soaring engagement of Indian travellers with our brands worldwide,' said Hartley. 'With record-breaking stay revenue and membership growth in 2024, we are committed to enriching their experiences through an ever-expanding portfolio of world-class hotels and innovative travel benefits.' INTRODUCING THE LEELA'S NEW ULTRA-LUXURY CONCEPT: ARQ BY THE LEELA The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts continues to set new benchmarks for luxury with the introduction of Arq at Pichola - an exclusive collection of ultra-luxury villa spaces designed as the ultimate escape for the discerning elite from around the world. Debuting at The Leela Palace Udaipur, Arq offers an intimate collection of exclusive accommodations, blending Indian heritage with modern sophistication. This evolution aligns with the growing aspirations of affluent Indian and global travellers seeking tailored, high-end experiences. 'India is at the forefront of a new era in luxury hospitality, driven by its dynamic economy, cultural richness and a discerning new generation of travellers seeking immersive experiences. With Arq, we are elevating ultra-luxury to unprecedented levels by creating bespoke sanctuaries that blend India's timeless heritage with innovation. As the country cements its position as a premier luxury destination, The Leela remains committed to setting new benchmarks and shaping the future of luxury hospitality on a global stage,' said Anuraag Bhatnagar, Chief Executive Officer of The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts. MINOR HOTELS EXPANDS IN INDIA WITH ANANTARA'S DEBUT Minor Hotels recently made its foray into India, launching its first luxury property, Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur, in November 2024. The luxury retreat marks the beginning of an ambitious growth strategy, with plans to open 50 new properties in India over the next decade. With India's outbound travel forecast to exceed 50 million trips by 2030, Minor Hotels is strategically positioned to cater to this demand across its luxury and premium brands, including Anantara Hotels & Resorts, Avani Hotels & Resorts, and NH Collection. 'The Indian market presents a remarkable opportunity for luxury hospitality, both domestically and internationally,' said Rajakarier. 'With Anantara's debut in Jaipur and our expansion plans, we aim to redefine experiential luxury while deepening our engagement with Indian travellers through our expanding brand portfolio.' He added: 'Indian travellers are increasingly seeking immersive experiences, whether through bespoke wellness retreats, culturally rich stays, or luxury destination weddings. Our strategy is to cater to these evolving preferences by expanding our footprint with brands that align with these aspirations.' LUXURY TRAVEL AND LOYALTY IN INDIA There are more GHA hotel rooms in India than ever before, growing to nearly 3,400 in 2024 to meet the rising demand for luxury stays across the country. But the alliance's commitment to India extends beyond its hotel brand presence, as its latest market research reveals. GHA DISCOVERY, which now includes more than 30 million travellers worldwide, is playing a pivotal role in shaping high-end travel trends. Indian members are increasingly engaging with GHA's 'Signature Luxury' hotels, with premium experiences, room upgrades, and the DISCOVERY Dollars (D$) rewards currency ranking among the most valued benefits. As inbound travel to India flourishes, the country remains a magnet for high-spending travellers, with the US, UK, and Australia leading the top source markets. The combined presence of The Leela and Minor Hotels within GHA's ecosystem positions them at the forefront of India's luxury hospitality growth. Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Trade Arabia
24-03-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Global Hotel Alliance showcases India's luxury hospitality
As India's luxury travel sector experiences unprecedented growth, Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) and two of its hotel brands – The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts and Minor Hotels – have reaffirmed their commitment to the market, unveiling new initiatives to elevate the country's high-end hospitality landscape. India is a key development market for GHA, with GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme membership in the country growing by 18% in 2024 to 623,000 members. The Leela and Minor Hotels are both tapping into this demand with new luxury offerings appealing to high-end Indian travellers. In a notable shift, international spend by Indian GHA DISCOVERY members (54%) surpassed domestic revenue (46%) for the first time, with Thailand, the UAE, and Singapore as the top international destinations. The Indian travel market's significant growth potential was highlighted at two events staged in Delhi this week, with GHA citing recent research and The Leela and Minor Hotels discussing their market strategies and development plans. Speaking at the Skift India Forum on 18th March, Chris Hartley, CEO, GHA, and Anuraag Bhatnagar, CEO, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, revealed how luxury hotel brands are responding to India's burgeoning demand for premium experiences. The conversation continued at a press briefing hosted at The Leela Palace, New Delhi the following day, where Hartley, Bhatnagar and Dillip Rajakarier, CEO, Minor Hotels, highlighted India's growing influence in global travel and luxury hospitality. These discussions explored key trends, including evolving guest preferences, the impact of loyalty programmes, and the future of ultra-luxury hospitality. 'The rapid growth of India's luxury travel market is reflected in the soaring engagement of Indian travellers with our brands worldwide,' said Hartley. 'With record-breaking stay revenue and membership growth in 2024, we are committed to enriching their experiences through an ever-expanding portfolio of world-class hotels and innovative travel benefits.' INTRODUCING THE LEELA'S NEW ULTRA-LUXURY CONCEPT: ARQ BY THE LEELA The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts continues to set new benchmarks for luxury with the introduction of Arq at Pichola - an exclusive collection of ultra-luxury villa spaces designed as the ultimate escape for the discerning elite from around the world. Debuting at The Leela Palace Udaipur, Arq offers an intimate collection of exclusive accommodations, blending Indian heritage with modern sophistication. This evolution aligns with the growing aspirations of affluent Indian and global travellers seeking tailored, high-end experiences. 'India is at the forefront of a new era in luxury hospitality, driven by its dynamic economy, cultural richness and a discerning new generation of travellers seeking immersive experiences. With Arq, we are elevating ultra-luxury to unprecedented levels by creating bespoke sanctuaries that blend India's timeless heritage with innovation. As the country cements its position as a premier luxury destination, The Leela remains committed to setting new benchmarks and shaping the future of luxury hospitality on a global stage,' said Anuraag Bhatnagar, Chief Executive Officer of The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts. MINOR HOTELS EXPANDS IN INDIA WITH ANANTARA'S DEBUT Minor Hotels recently made its foray into India, launching its first luxury property, Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur, in November 2024. The luxury retreat marks the beginning of an ambitious growth strategy, with plans to open 50 new properties in India over the next decade. With India's outbound travel forecast to exceed 50 million trips by 2030, Minor Hotels is strategically positioned to cater to this demand across its luxury and premium brands, including Anantara Hotels & Resorts, Avani Hotels & Resorts, and NH Collection. 'The Indian market presents a remarkable opportunity for luxury hospitality, both domestically and internationally,' said Rajakarier. 'With Anantara's debut in Jaipur and our expansion plans, we aim to redefine experiential luxury while deepening our engagement with Indian travellers through our expanding brand portfolio.' He added: 'Indian travellers are increasingly seeking immersive experiences, whether through bespoke wellness retreats, culturally rich stays, or luxury destination weddings. Our strategy is to cater to these evolving preferences by expanding our footprint with brands that align with these aspirations.' LUXURY TRAVEL AND LOYALTY IN INDIA There are more GHA hotel rooms in India than ever before, growing to nearly 3,400 in 2024 to meet the rising demand for luxury stays across the country. But the alliance's commitment to India extends beyond its hotel brand presence, as its latest market research reveals. GHA DISCOVERY, which now includes more than 30 million travellers worldwide, is playing a pivotal role in shaping high-end travel trends. Indian members are increasingly engaging with GHA's 'Signature Luxury' hotels, with premium experiences, room upgrades, and the DISCOVERY Dollars (D$) rewards currency ranking among the most valued benefits. As inbound travel to India flourishes, the country remains a magnet for high-spending travellers, with the US, UK, and Australia leading the top source markets. The combined presence of The Leela and Minor Hotels within GHA's ecosystem positions them at the forefront of India's luxury hospitality growth.
