Borer
Q: Peninsula is planning to add a property in Shanghai in 2009, is that right?
A:Yes. It will be significant for the company because it represents a return to its roots. The parent company, Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, started in Shanghai and left with the Communist takeover. So it will be particularly sweet for Peninsula to “return to its roots.”
Q: Let’s talk a bit about the new Tokyo property, scheduled to open in September. How did you decide on this property now? What sets it apart from other luxury properties in Asia?
A: Tokyo was on our strategic expansion list for years, but the key was location, as it always is with Peninsula. To find a prime location in Tokyo obviously takes time. Pen Tokyo’s location in that city is advantageous because it will be within walking distance of major brokerage houses, banks and company headquarters, requiring little or no car or train time like other brands, some of which are an expensive 30-minute cab ride from the financial and shopping districts.
Q: Will it have the usual Peninsula amenities?
A: Yes, guests will get the usual Peninsula treatment they will arrive in an elegant driveway and we will drive them in Rolls Royces, just like The Pen in Hong Kong. And we will have the largest rooms in Tokyo they average 579 square feet. Also, we will have something new walk-in wardrobes in all our rooms, which is an added Peninsula touch. The property will be comprehensive but low-key, as are all the Peninsula properties. Also, the rooms will come equipped with a mobile phone that you can take with you outside the hotel.
Q: The company now has seven hotels in Asia and the United States, eight if you count Tokyo. Where do you expect to expand next, after Tokyo? Are you looking at properties in Asia exclusively, or elsewhere?
A:We are focusing on India and Europe. We want a presence in London or Paris. I think New York, London and Tokyo are the most important financial capitals in the world, and we are already in two of those three cities.
Q: How important are spas to your future planning?
A: Spas and wellness continue to be major initiatives for Peninsula, and the company will plan more spa news in the next one or two years. A major renovation of the spa at Peninsula New York and an overall renovation to inject more glamour into that property are planned for 2008.
Q: What’s the breakdown of guests at your properties in Asia? What percent come from the U.S., specifically from the western states?
A: It’s difficult to say because our properties are scattered all around the world, but the U.S. is very important. In Hong Kong, for example, about 35 percent of our guests are from the United States.
Q: You are obviously very busy, with a new property opening, etc. How do you spend your time? How often are you on the road, and where do you go? What part of the business takes up most of your time?
A: Running a hotel company is similar to running a hotel. You’re dealing with many issues at the same time. I now spend about a week out of every month in Tokyo. We want to make sure it’s a smooth opening. Also, Japanese customers are very demanding. I spend a few hours a day on plans for expansion. Twice a week I’m in touch with all my general managers by phone.
Q: Do you still enjoy it?
A: Absolutely. Quality is everything we do at the Peninsula. This is my life’s calling.
