WTM 2018: Centara to continue portfolio expansion with first Qatar hotel

Centara Hotels & Resorts has announced it will expand into Qatar and open another five hotels across Thailand and Laos over the next 12 months.

The brand expects an additional 15 signings this year, meaning its operating hotels will increase by six while its pipeline will increase by 15.

The company intends to expand its portfolio of properties by 50% between 2017 and 2022.

The Centara West Bay Residences and Suites will launch next month, with two hotels as part of its COSI brand following over the next 18 months. COSI Pattaya Naklua Beach is scheduled to open in September, while the COSI Chiang Mai Ta Pae Gate will launch in early 2020.

A new Centara Residences and Suites will also open in Sriracha in 2019, while the Cantara Ao Nanmg Beach Resort & Spa will launch in Krabi the following year.

Centara is also finalising an agreement with sister company, Central Pattana, to develop ten new Centara hotels in second-tier destinations across Thailand, alongside Central brand malls.

The company is also expanding internationally agreement signed for three more hotels in Laos, and the company’s debut in Qatar. The Centara West Bay Residences & Suites Doha will open next month offering 265 units.

Markland Blaiklock, deputy chief executive, also told Travel Weekly that the company may also soon make its mark in North Africa and North Asia as team are actively seeking a new hotel spots in Morocco and Japan.

He said: “We were close to acquiring some properties in Japan which did not come to fruition, but would definitely like to do an acquisition to jump start into a new market.

“We also have strong intentions to venture into Morocco, which would be our first property in North Africa. Nothing is confirmed yet but we are seriously looking into it.”

He was quick to add, however, that despite a significant expansion, existing sights will not be overlooked. He told Travel Weekly: “In addition to our exciting new range, we put a strong focus on maintaining our existing product, with plans to totally upgrade our Centara Grand in Samui next year, creating new room types, putting new villas into the resort and creating new restaurant offerings.”

Blaiklock also said resorts in Bangkok would also be upgraded as part of their ongoing regular programme.

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