Latest news with #LaurentKleitman
The Star
27-04-2025
- Business
- The Star
Hong Kong's famed Mandarin Oriental hotel set for US$100 million renovation
The 61-year-old Mandarin Oriental hotel in Central will undergo a US$100 million renovation demonstrating the company's continued faith in Hong Kong as a premier tourism destination, the group's chief executive has said, dismissing suggestions the city suffered from a negative image overseas. In an exclusive interview with the Post, Laurent Kleitman, group chief executive of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, said a number of facilities would be revamped and offerings improved over the next 18 months, despite growing global economic tensions fuelled by the US-China trade war that could affect international travel to Hong Kong. The company will simultaneously undertake a US$100 million facelift of the Mandarin Oriental hotel in Bangkok. Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team. Kleitman said Hong Kong remained an attractive gateway for business, cultural interactions and tourism, as reflected by a series of mega-events the city held last month, ranging from the Hong Kong Sevens rugby tournament and concerts at the new Kai Tak Stadium to art shows such as Art Basel. As for the hotel, it remained an integral part of the city's cultural dynamism, he added. 'In 1963 when the Mandarin opened, one of the quotes a reporter wrote in the South China Morning Post was that the speed of the lifts was mesmerising and described it as a 'space age hotel',' he said. 'With so many historical facts about the place, we continue to invest in the property because we are confident about the future.' The hotel, along with the entire city, has been through a roller-coaster ride in recent years, weathering the social unrest in 2019, the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 and the ongoing trade war between the United States and the rest of the world. Asked whether negative perceptions of Hong Kong overseas had improved, Kleitman said they had and business travel had recovered, including from Europe and the US. 'The image of Hong Kong is good and will continue to improve,' he said. 'I was in France a few weeks ago, and we were doing a lot of work with the French authorities to promote the image of Hong Kong. There are a lot of businesses that come and want to establish themselves in Hong Kong.' Kleitman, who took up the chief executive role in 2023, said he felt a marked difference in the city's 'vibe' over the past two years. 'I feel the vibe is improving dramatically. I remember that the day I visited here was when masks were lifted in 2023. It was very quiet and there was not a lot of movement. Look at what we are, two years after that. This city is incredibly resilient and the buoyancy, the vibrancy that we see today is a good sign of what it's going to be in the next decade.' The renovation will be the latest major facelift for the Mandarin Oriental since 2004. It also compliments sister company Hongkong Land's US$1 billion project in modernising Landmark-branded properties in Central over a three-year period from 2024. Competition in the local hotel and hospitality industry has heated up, notably with the debut of the 413-room Rosewood Hotel in 2019 on the opposite side of Victoria Harbour in Tsim Sha Tsui, in addition to changes in travellers' behaviour, particularly the demand for more experience-led travel. Kleitman welcomed the competition, saying it prompted the industry to improve its offerings. 'Competition is very good, it calls for a diversity of offerings,' he said, adding he was confident the Mandarin hotel would meet the challenge of retaining customer loyalty. 'We have more loyal guests than any of our competitors,' he said. The creation of 11 serviced flats would cater to patrons staying for a longer duration, he said. 'There are family businesspeople, who come to work for a few months before they become residents,' he said. The addition of the new flats and expansion in the size of suites meant that the number of guest rooms would decrease from 447 to 428. Kleitman said some of the suites would be turned into 'corner rooms' to maximise views of Central and the harbour. Other changes would involve enlarging the lobby area by relocating concierge counters, while a 'secret bar' would be built in the existing lounge area. 'We will retain the bespoke design by keeping the black marble walls,' he said. Culinary services would be enhanced through redesigning the busy Cake Shop, 'the beating heart of Central', he said, on the mezzanine floor and creating a 20-seat 'omakase' pizza bar where customers could leave order details with the chef. Kleitman said the renovation work would take time to be completed but the cake shop would continue to offer services. The hotel would also open a new French restaurant by New York-based Michelin-star chef Daniel Boulud at the top of the Landmark Prince's connected to the hotel with a footbridge. The space for the new restaurant used to be occupied by the trendy Sevva restaurant, which shut down last year. In Bangkok, the Mandarin Oriental hotel will have new garden wings in the coming months, following an upgrade of its river wings in 2019. The entire expansion will cost an estimated US$100 million. Economist Simon Lee Siu-po of the Chinese University of Hong Kong said Central and Tsim Sha Tsui remained 'the heart of Hong Kong', and there was still demand for top tier hotels in the city. 'There are rising numbers of visitors from Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines and elsewhere coming to Hong Kong, who will want top tier hotels, dining and shopping experiences,' he said. More from South China Morning Post: For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2025.
Trade Arabia
24-04-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Mandarin Oriental announces renovations in Hong Kong, Bangkok
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is investing multi-million dollars in its two flagship hotels, The Mandarin in Hong Kong and The Oriental in Bangkok, to strengthen its brand and accelerate global expansion. The group's growth strategy, led by Group Chief Executive Laurent Kleitman, aims to deliver exceptional, sustainably driven guest-centric experiences. The hotels will be rebranded as l luxury hotels in their respective cities, with new elegant guest accommodation designs and exciting dining and wellness experiences. Michelin-starred chefs Anne Sophie Pic, Alex Dilling, and Chef Fei will be introduced to the Thai capital, while Daniel Boulud and Daniele Cason will come to Hong Kong. The investment aims to maintain the brand's position as the most exceptional luxury hotels in their respective cities. Laurent Kleitman, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, said 'Mandarin Oriental is a global leader in luxury hospitality and as such we elevate our brand and invest in our legacy hotels, to ensure we continue to be sought after and loved by future generations. We eagerly anticipate unveiling an extraordinary array of exceptional new experiences within these storied properties, and I am confident we will continue to exceed our guests' expectations while maintaining our position in the hearts of our loyal local and international guests in both cities.' He continues: 'I am thrilled and honored to welcome Anne-Sophie Pic, Alex Dilling, Daniel Boulud, Daniele Cason and Chef Fei into our founding hotels. Their commitment to culinary excellence, to creativity, to innovation, to sustainability and to outstanding guest experiences is fully aligned with the values of Mandarin Oriental. We are delighted to welcome them as part of our family.' MANDARIN ORIENTAL, HONG KONG Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong's iconic hotel, is set to undergo a transformative renovation with an investment of over $100 million. The renovation will modernise and enhance many of the hotel's offerings using sustainability best practices. French designer Hubert de Malherbe will undertake a complete redesign of all public spaces, respecting the history of the iconic property while projecting it into the future. The hotel lobby will provide an exceptional arrival experience, with an elegant all-day lounge and a new Whisky Bar incorporating a discrete cigar divan. Guestrooms and suites will be refreshed with contemporary style, featuring exquisite fabrics and crafted details. A reconfiguration of guestroom floors will introduce 11 newly appointed apartments with elegant residential design. The Mandarin Spa and Salon will be enhanced with a new Wellness Club concept that embodies a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation for holistic wellbeing. The sanctuary draws inspiration from Hong Kong's cultural heritage and dynamic spirit, providing a serene retreat from the bustling city life. New, elevated dining experiences include the complete reimagining of the hotel's famous Cake shop, a new interior and offering for the legendary Mandarin Grill + Bar, and a refined expansion of the renowned Clipper Lounge. Chef Daniele Cason will launch an exclusive pizza counter with a wine pairing focus, mirroring his creation at Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo. The Krug Room will undergo a stylish revamp, and a fully enhanced interior design is planned for the events facilities. New York-based Michelin-starred Chef Daniel Boulud will bring his acclaimed French cuisine to Hong Kong for the first time in an exciting new culinary experience at the top of LANDMARK PRINCE'S, connected to the hotel via an enclosed walkway and featuring an expansive rooftop terrace with unmatched views of the Hong Kong skyline and harbor. Working alongside globally acclaimed interior designers, local artists, and craftsmen, the renovation will result in Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong being globally recognised for delivering an elevated, authentic, and contemporary experience. Greg Liddell, Area Vice President, Operations and General Manager of Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, said 'We eagerly anticipate unveiling an extraordinary journey of exceptional new experiences within this storied legacy hotel, which was the first true luxury hotel to open on Hong Kong island over sixty years ago in 1963. By continuing to innovate and exceed our guests' expectations across all our distinctive hotel offerings, we will ensure that we maintain our position as the leader in luxury hospitality in this ever-evolving dynamic city.' MANDARIN ORIENTAL, BANGKOK Mandarin Oriental, a renowned Thai hospitality hotel, is set to celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2026. The hotel will invest in its most loved settings, including the multi-million-dollar restoration of the River Wing in 2019. Interior designer Jeffrey Wilkes has been commissioned to transform guest accommodation in the Author's and Garden wings, incorporating local craftsmanship and color. The award-winning French restaurant, Le Normandie, will feature Anne-Sophie Pic, the most awarded female Chef in the world, from Q3 2025. The interior will blend traditional aesthetics with modern elegance, providing an idyllic backdrop for Pic's innovative, delicate Michelin-starred culinary approach. A new partnership with Michelin-starred chef Alex Dilling at Lord Jim's will bring a fresh, more relaxed take on luxury dining, centered on cooking over fire, seasonal ingredients, and a vibrant, sharing-style dining experience. The China House will also undergo a stunning redesign, featuring Michelin-starred Chef Fei, who will focus on regional delicacies and unique flavors of Chaosan. Across the river, Baan Phraya, a culinary gem known for its refined take on traditional Thai flavors, will undergo a significant remodeling to pay homage to Thailand's rich architectural heritage and renowned craftsmanship. Chef Pom's unique interpretation of traditional Thai cuisine will be further enhanced by sustainable fresh herbs and spices from Baan Phraya's expanded herb garden. Finally, Mandarin Oriental will fully redesign the Fitness Centre, offering a dynamic wellness experience blending traditional Thai wellness and fitness with internationally recognised vitality programs. This comprehensive renovation programme is already underway and is expected to dovetail into a series of celebratory events in honor of its 150th anniversary throughout 2026. Anthony Tyler, Area Vice President and General Manager of Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok said, ' For 150 years this esteemed hotel has been at the forefront of hospitality in Thailand and has been celebrated globally as one of the finest examples of luxury hotelkeeping and attentive service. Over the many generations we have ensured that Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok remains at the pinnacle of excellence in Thailand and this exciting renovation, which will introduce so many exceptional new experiences for our loyal clients to enjoy, will ensure we continue to hold our position for generations to come." -TradeArabia News Service
South China Morning Post
22-04-2025
- Business
- South China Morning Post
Hong Kong's Mandarin Oriental hotel set for US$100 million renovation
The 61-year-old Mandarin Oriental hotel in Central will undergo a US$100 million renovation demonstrating the company's continued faith in Hong Kong as a premier tourism destination, the group's chief executive has said, dismissing suggestions the city suffered from a negative image overseas. Advertisement In an exclusive interview with the Post, Laurent Kleitman, group chief executive of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, said a number of facilities would be revamped and offerings improved over the next 18 months, despite growing global economic tensions fuelled by the US-China trade war that could affect international travel to Hong Kong. The company will simultaneously undertake a US$100 million facelift of the Mandarin Oriental hotel in Bangkok. Kleitman said Hong Kong remained an attractive gateway for business, cultural interactions and tourism, as reflected by a series of mega-events the city held last month, ranging from the Hong Kong Sevens rugby tournament and concerts at the new Kai Tak Stadium to art shows such as Art Basel. An artist's impression of the renovated lobby at the Mandarin Oriental. Photo: Handout As for the hotel, it remained an integral part of the city's cultural dynamism, he added.
Jordan Times
09-04-2025
- Business
- Jordan Times
Iconic Paris hotel Lutetia taken over by Mandarin Oriental
This photograph taken on April 20, 2020, shows the entrance of the closed luxury hotel Lutetia in Paris (AFP photo) PARIS — The historic Lutetia hotel in Paris, which was occupied by the Nazis during World War II and after liberation served as a welcome centre for concentration camp survivors, was on Thursday taken over by luxury hotel group Mandarin Oriental. Situated in the centre of the Left Bank area of the French capital, the Art Deco institution was opened in 1910 and owes its existence to its neighbour Bon Marche, one of the first department stores in the world. Originally baptised with the Roman name for Paris, the hotel will be renamed Mandarin Oriental Lutetia from Thursday. The Akirov family and Laurent Kleitman, chief executive of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, took part in an inauguration ceremony on Thursday, unveiling a plaque on the hotel's facade in the colours of the Asian group. Jean-Pierre Trevisan, the hotel's director, said the deal "will give us visibility in areas that we are not familiar with, such as Asia". Financial details of the management contract were not disclosed. A source familiar with the matter said it was a "very long-term commitment". Kleitman said no major changes to the recently renovated establishment were planned. "We are delighted to support and work closely with Mandarin Oriental for the sustainability of the Lutetia," the Akirov family said in a statement. The founders of Bon Marche had the hotel built to provide accommodation for their wealthy customers travelling up to Paris from the provinces for shopping trips. 'Ghosts of Nazis' With the Left Bank the heart of the French intellectual scene, the hotel became a hangout for celebrities including Charlie Chaplin, Ernest Hemingway and Antoine de Saint-Exupery. Famous guests also included James Joyce, who worked on his epic novel "Ulysses" at the Lutetia, and the future president of the republic, Charles de Gaulle, who spent his wedding night there. During the Nazi occupation of Paris, the hotel was requisitioned by the occupying forces and used to house the Abwehr, the German intelligence. The Nazi forces tortured their victims at the Lutetia. When Paris was liberated in 1944, de Gaulle ordered the hotel to take in thousands of deportees. One archive Agence France-Presse picture shows emaciated French deportees repatriated from Germany having a meal at the hotel in May 1945. Another shows freed prisoners consulting a bulletin board with lists of deportees. "The ghosts of Nazis, French resistance fighters and concentration camp survivors still inhabit the grand building on Paris' famed Left Bank," the Smithsonian Magazine said in 2019. Post-war, it swiftly regained its reputation as a place to see and be seen. The five-star hotel was awarded the prestigious "Palace" distinction in 2019, after four years of costly renovations. The work was financed by the Alrov group, which paid 145 million euros in 2010 to acquire the hotel, sources told AFP at the time. The 200-million-euro makeover allowed the hotel to spruce up its original frescos and stucco work, decking out the 184 rooms and suites in understated luxury. Some of the suites have been inspired by celebrities such as Francis Ford Coppola and Isabelle Huppert. Prices are out of reach for all but the wealthiest, with rooms rates starting at 1,500 euros per night.
Trade Arabia
06-04-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Mandarin Oriental expands in Paris with Hôtel Lutetia
Mandarin Oriental has officially taken over the Hôtel Lutetia, transforming it into Mandarin Oriental Lutetia, Paris. This hotel, the only Palace hotel on the Left Bank, joins Mandarin Oriental, enhancing its presence in the French capital. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Group Chief Executive Laurent Kleitman, senior leadership team members, the Akirov family, and Managing Director Jean Pierre Trevisan. The addition of this landmark property strengthens Mandarin Oriental's presence in Paris, offering two distinct Palace experiences: an intimate, contemporary retreat on the Right Bank and a vibrant, heritage-rich icon on the Left Bank. 'Today marks a new chapter for Mandarin Oriental as we officially welcome this legendary Parisian landmark Palace into our portfolio' says Laurent Kleitman, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental. 'In addition to our beloved Saint Honore gem, with Mandarin Oriental Lutetia, Paris, we celebrate not only the rich heritage of the Left Bank but also our vision for the future of luxury hospitality – where history, culture and legendary service come together to create unforgettable experiences. Our dual presence in Paris emphasises our deep commitment to this iconic city, offering our guests two distinct expressions of Mandarin Oriental's hospitality.' Honouring its commitment to authenticity and excellence, Mandarin Oriental embraces the soul of Lutetia, preserving its rich heritage while elevating the guest experience with its legendary service and expertise, shaped by its dual-Asian roots. The hotel remains a vibrant destination for both travellers and Parisians, offering an exceptional setting where culture, gastronomy and wellbeing converge. From the iconic Parisian Brasserie Lutetia to the serene Akasha Wellness space, from the lively Bar Josephine, to the many amazing suites, every element reflects a seamless blend of tradition and contemporary luxury. Georgi Akirov adds, 'The Akirov family is the proud owner of Lutetia, Paris is Lutetia and Lutetia is Paris! We are deeply committed to the success of the hotel — one of Paris' leading Palaces and among Europe's most distinguished hotels. We are pleased that Mandarin Oriental will be managing the property. We share a common vision for Lutetia: to honour its heritage and spirit, while elevating the hotel to new heights of excellence. Since its reopening in 2018, Lutetia has quickly become one of Paris' most sought-after Palaces. We look forward to supporting and working closely with Mandarin Oriental to ensure Lutetia's continued success, and I extend my best wishes for the future of this partnership. I would also like to thank Lutetia's many loyal guests, the supportive travel agent community, and the exceptional team led by Jean-Pierre Trevisan.'
