Hong Kong-based Mandarin Oriental hotel Group (MOHG) continues to make waves in the luxury hospitality industry with strategic management agreements. The latest additions to its esteemed portfolio are the iconic Hôtel Lutetia in Paris and the renowned Conservatorium Hotel in Amsterdam, both owned by Locka holding BV and its visionary founder, Alfred Akirov.
Following the completion of the transaction, the Parisian landmark will be reborn as Mandarin Oriental Lutetia, Paris, while the Amsterdam gem will undergo a conversion into Mandarin Oriental conservatorium, Amsterdam. This rebranding is slated for January 2026, after a comprehensive upgrade that will preserve the hotel’s unique charm while introducing contemporary luxury.This marks Mandarin Oriental’s second Parisian address, expanding its presence in the City of Lights.
MOHG currently boasts a portfolio of 41 hotels, 12 residences, and 25 exclusive homes spread across 26 countries and territories. The group is focused on doubling its portfolio size through strategic management deals while together divesting from real estate assets. This year alone, MOHG divested its other Parisian property, and last year saw the sale of its Jakarta hotel.
In its latest financial results for the first half of 2024, MOHG reported a remarkable 13% surge in combined total revenue for its managed hotels in Asia. This robust growth in Asia overshadowed all other regions,demonstrating the continent’s burgeoning luxury travel market. Meanwhile,RevPAR (revenue per available room) in Asia soared at more than double the rate of other regions,underscoring the strength of the luxury travel segment.
Adding to its impressive international footprint, MOHG recently secured projects in Abu Dhabi, Mexico, and the Caribbean. In Abu Dhabi, a collaboration with Aldar will see the development of 228 Mandarin Oriental residences on the prestigious Saadiyat Island. Meanwhile, the idyllic shores of Riviera Maya will welcome Mandarin Oriental Kanai in 2028, featuring 120 exquisitely appointed rooms and suites alongside 50 branded residences. The group has also triumphantly reopened Mandarin Oriental, Canouan in St. Vincent and The Grenadines,after a period of closure due to Hurricane Beryl. Looking ahead, MOHG has an exciting pipeline of projects, including three hotels in Japan, and also properties in Budapest, Rome, and bali.
in October, MOHG announced enterprising plans to significantly expand its presence in China over the next decade. Spearheading this growth strategy is Group Chief Executive, Laurent Kleitman. Mandarin Oriental currently operates 10 hotels across Greater China, the birthplace of the brand’s flagship property, The Mandarin, which opened its doors in Hong Kong in 1963.
MOHG’s expansion in China includes exciting developments in Tianfu, Chengdu, Hangzhou, and Nanjing, with more projects in the works. This aggressive expansion reflects the brand’s confidence in the Chinese luxury travel market’s continued growth.
Recently appointed as head of development for the Americas, industry veteran Tiffany Cooper will steer MOHG’s growth in a new market. Her primary focus will be on identifying development and investment opportunities across the United States, Canada, and Latin America, further cementing MOHG’s foothold in the region.
Just last week, MOHG announced full ownership of its curated collection of private vacation homes and mansions, signifying a strategic shift towards a more self-reliant operating model. Launched in 2022 with a limited selection of eight properties, the collection has rapidly expanded to encompass 25 luxurious residences, each privately owned.
Looking ahead, MOHG will prioritize the expansion of its private home collection into coveted leisure destinations.These include sought-after summer getaways along the Mediterranean coast, luxurious winter retreats in the Swiss Alps, and both seasonal havens in North America.
What are the key factors driving the luxury hotel industry’s expansion in Europe?
Interview: Time.news Editor Talks Luxury Expansion with Mandarin Oriental Expert
Editor: Welcome, adn thank you for joining us today! We’re excited to discuss the recent expansion of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, especially the addition of the iconic Hôtel Lutetia in Paris and the renowned Conservatorium hotel in Amsterdam. To shed some light on this exciting development, we have luxury hospitality expert, Dr. jane Thompson, with us. Dr. thompson, thank you for being here!
Dr. Thompson: Thank you for having me! I’m glad to be part of this conversation.
Editor: Mandarin Oriental’s recent acquisition seems monumental. What dose this mean for the luxury hotel landscape in Europe?
Dr. Thompson: Absolutely, it is indeed a significant development. Mandarin Oriental’s expansion into Paris and Amsterdam not only enhances its portfolio — which stands at 41 hotels and continues to grow — but also strengthens its brand presence in some of Europe’s most prestigious cities. It’s a clear indication that luxury travel and hospitality are rebounding, and travelers are seeking refined, culturally rich experiences.
editor: You mentioned the brand presence. The Hôtel Lutetia is a Parisian landmark.What are the challenges and benefits of rebranding such an iconic site?
Dr. Thompson: The challenges are definitely steep. The key is striking the right balance: respecting the historic elements of the hotel while infusing contemporary luxury. However, this can also serve as a significant prospect. By branding it as Mandarin Oriental Lutetia, they can attract a new clientele who may be drawn to the Mandarin Oriental experience, while still appealing to loyal patrons of the Lutetia.
Editor: the renovations will also take place before the rebranding in January 2026. What are your thoughts on the timeline and the planned upgrades?
Dr. Thompson: The timeline allows for thoughtful renovations, ensuring that the hotel’s unique charm is maintained. The strategic timing also demonstrates confidence in the recovery of the luxury segment. Upgrades that incorporate modern luxury must also be done with sensitivity to the hotel’s storied past, which is crucial for retaining its identity.
Editor: The company’s strategy includes not just physical expansions but also a focus on management agreements and divesting from real estate. Why do you think they are adopting this approach?
dr. Thompson: This strategy allows mandarin Oriental to leverage its brand and management expertise without the heavy burden of property ownership. It can create a more flexible investment model while rapidly scaling its portfolio. In a way,it aligns with broader trends in the hospitality sector,where many brands are focusing on management agreements over conventional ownership.
Editor: Considering the competitive landscape, how do you see Mandarin Oriental positioning itself against other luxury brands?
Dr. Thompson: Mandarin Oriental has a strong reputation for service and unique offerings. By emphasizing both the heritage of its new properties and its hallmark service, it can differentiate itself. The focus on distinctive guest experiences, paired with a commitment to local culture, will be essential in standing out in an increasingly crowded luxury market.
Editor: That makes perfect sense.Lastly, what upcoming trends should we watch for in luxury hospitality that may impact brands like Mandarin Oriental?
Dr. Thompson: We’re likely to see a growing focus on sustainability, personalization, and health-oriented amenities. Social duty is becoming critical for luxury travelers, and brands that prioritize eco-friendly practices and unique, tailor-made experiences may hold a competitive edge.
Editor: Thank you,Dr.Thompson, for your insights into Mandarin Oriental’s exciting expansion and the luxury hospitality industry as a whole. It’s clear that as Mandarin Oriental continues to grow, it will be an essential player in shaping the future of luxury travel.
Dr. Thompson: Thank you for having me! It’s an exciting time for the industry, and I look forward to seeing how these changes unfold.
Editor: And thank you to our readers for joining us today. Stay tuned for more insights into the dynamic world of luxury hospitality!