Singapore-headquartered Aman, a luxury hotel group operating 31 resorts in 20 countries, is planning to set up four more resorts in India, according to a top official.
“We are moving to the western side of Asia. In the coming months, we will be setting up new properties (resorts) in India, Europe and North America,” Olivier Jolivet, Chief Executive Officer, Aman told The Hindu .
“Our priority is to commence the first property in Shanghai and fourth in China by early next year. And then in Japan,” he said.
Wellness centres“India is a more important market for us. New Delhi and Mumbai are definitely our target cities for setting up new properties as well as creating centres of wellness to offer Aman experience. It will offer service to high end customers. We are also exploring main cities everywhere,” he said.
Currently, Aman has two resorts in Rajasthan. The new properties are proposed to be set up in the North, West and South of India. Besides, Rajasthan will have one more resort. Aman is also exploring the possibilities of setting up properties in Chennai, Bengaluru and north east of Kolkata.
Investment patternWhile refusing to divulge the investment pattern for the new properties, Mr. Jolivet said amount depended on size of the property and location.
According to him, Aman had been in India for the last 20 years. The new properties will be a blend of local culture and architecture to offer a pleasant experience. “We don’t have a timeline. But, we will complete these projects within five years,” he said.
Asserting it was worthwhile to invest in China, he said Aman had three resorts with 128 rooms comprising suites and villas and they were making profit. Amandayan Lijiang opened in February 2015, Amanfayun Hangzhour in January 2010 and Aman Summer Palace Beijing in September 2008. Aman Sanghai will have 24 suites and villas.
He said Aman Sanghai comprised a village of historic dwellings surrounded by a ‘sacred’ camphor forest. The project entailed the disassembling, relocation and restoration of more than 30 villages, comprising 50 Ming and Qing Dynasty houses chosen for preservation and 10,000 ancient camphor trees. It would start functioning by early 2017.
