Ritz-Carlton to expand in China
By Liu Jie (China Daily)
Updated: 2004-08-09 09:05

Ritz-Carlton, one of the world's top luxury hotel companies, is turning its developing focus to Asia, especially China, the world's fast growing market.

Simon F. Cooper, president and chief operating officer, told China Daily that a new hotel - Ritz-Carlton, Beijing - is expected to be opened in 2007, following Portman Ritz-Carlton, Shanghai, and The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong.

In addition, the US-based company is also looking for potential partners to open another hotel in the heart of Beijing's Financial Street and company officials believed agreement can be reached before the autumn of 2006.

The fifth hotel will be established in Guangzhou, the capital city of South China's Guangdong Province, in early 2007.

"We are exceptionally pleased to add Beijing to our growing number of strategic locations around the world," said Cooper.

"Our hotels in China have been among our most successful ventures. As China continues to welcome new business opportunities, following the signing of the World Trade Organization (WTO) agreement, Beijing holds much promise for even greater future success," he added.

Moreover, the continued strong economic growth and Beijing's hosting of the 2008 Olympic Games make China a nation where the investment in luxury hotels and residences fits well with Ritz-Carlton's global expansion plan.

So far, eight Ritz-Carlton hotels are under construction in Asia.

Asked what influenced Ritz-Carlton's decision to expand in China, Cooper said location was very important.

"We need luxury customers or demands in a specific area," he said.

He cited the Ritz-Carlton in Beijing as an example, which is to be located in central business district (CBD) - one of the capital city's most vibrant commercial districts on Chang'an Avenue.

The 320-room luxury hotel is designed as an integral part of China Central Place - a large complex and home for high-grade offices, luxurious residential apartments and top-class shopping centres.

The surrounding environment matches Ritz-Carlton's luxury style and may provide potential guests for the hotel. Meanwhile, the shopping centres will offer convenience to the guests.

"We also pay much attention to the partnership and that is why we selected China Central Place," said Cooper.

A large group of the hotels use discount tactics to attract clients in the intense competition in Beijing.

But Cooper demonstrated that Ritz-Carlton will not adopt any such marketing strategy.

"We provide world-class services in line with our Gold Standard, and we do not use discount strategy anywhere around the world," he said.

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company currently operates 58 award-winning hotels and resorts worldwide.

Since joining Ritz-Carlton in 2001, Cooper has been responsible for the successful opening of 20 hotels and positioning the Ritz-Carlton brand to residences and the club markets.

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