InterContinental Hotels Group has been awarded the management contract for the 'grand old lady of the Pacific', Fiji's Grand Pacific Hotel Suva which, after an extensive redevelopment and expansion programme, will be re-branded Crowne Plaza Grand Pacific Suva.
The redevelopment is due to commence next year in a joint venture between Fiji Investment Corporation Limited (FICL) and the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF). In a separate move, the FNPF also purchased Holiday Inn Suva, also managed by InterContinental Hotels Group, as part of the Group's asset divestment across Australia, New Zealand and Fiji in August.
Originally opened in 1914 before the beginning of World War 1, The Grand Pacific Hotel exemplifies colonial architecture in the Pacific. The original concrete structure was designed with two floors presiding over a 2.2 hectare site. Upon redevelopment, the hotel will see the addition of two new wings and 90 to 100 rooms, reflecting its former grandeur. The redevelopment will reflect the strong architectural style of the original hotel which was home to royalty, diplomats, celebrities, military commanders and leaders of nations.
'This is a significant opportunity for us. Not only does the contract see an extension of our relationship with FNPF, it creates a new upscale accommodation offering to complement Holiday Inn Suva which is situated next door to the Grand Pacific. By establishing the Crowne Plaza brand in the Fiji capital we are delivering on our strategy to expand the brand in key meetings and business locations across Asia Pacific,' said InterContinental Hotels Group Chief Operating Officer Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific, Phil Lee.
'Crowne Plaza Grand Pacific Suva will offer the Meeting Success programme that has made Crowne Plaza the brand of choice for business meetings and established it as The Place To Meet. The programme includes a dedicated Crowne Meetings Director, a two hour response to all meeting enquiries, and meeting facilities designed specifically for facilitators and delegates. The innovative meetings products and services complemented by the extensive refurbishment accommodation and public facilities, will make Crowne Plaza Grand Pacific Suva the most prestigious hotel for upscale business travellers to Suva.'
FNPF General Manager and CEO, Olota Rokouunisei said: 'We are delighted to be extending our relationship with InterContinental Hotels Group as we strive to return the Grand Pacific to its former glory. We will be working closely with the Group on redevelopment of the hotel, and are confident its management expertise and resources and the strength of the Crowne Plaza brand will ensure the hotel will provide impressive returns for our members.'
FICL Chairman Joe Mar added: 'Having the Grand Pacific Hotel - a landmark site in Suva - managed by an operator of InterContinental Hotels Group's calibre is important to bring about the credibility and prestige associated with ventures that involve local investors like FICL and FNPF.'
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