The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC has announced a major expansion and development initiative which it expects will bring the total number of properties in their portfolio to over 100 around the world by 2016. Ranging from Morocco to Mexico, Cairo to Chicago, this strategic plan will expand the brand to urban capitals and emerging tourist destinations, and represents an investment of more than USD2 billion by owners.
“While the global economy seems to show a recovery and the climate for interest in hotel and residential development looks encouraging, we are pleased that The Ritz-Carlton development pipeline is filled with potential international growth for the company,” said Herve Humler, president and chief operations officer.
“Throughout the world, especially in Asia and the Middle East, we expect to be the leading top tier luxury hospitality and lifestyle brand by 2016,” Humler predicted.
In only the first quarter of 2011, The Ritz-Carlton has already opened three iconic properties, including The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong – the world’s highest hotel, The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto (Canada) and The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre. By the end of the year, hotels including The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal (United Arab Emirates), and The Ritz-Carlton Residences in Toronto and Singapore are scheduled to debut.
This will be followed in 2012 by a record number of anticipated new openings including Chengdu (China); Rancho Mirage (California); and an expansion of The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai (United Arab Emirates). Two more Ritz-Carlton residential projects are scheduled be added in Chicago and Montreal.
Also in 2012, The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal – an historic landmark in the city’s downtown – plans to become a “partner hotel.” Under this agreement, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company will provide sales and marketing support for the iconic, independent hotel.
The third Bvlgari branded hotel is slated to open in London, joining two other locations in Milan and Bali. “We are proud of our continued arrangement with Bulgari. Each of these hotels have been among the most elite in the world, attracting a distinguished and discerning clientele of celebrities, business leaders, and sophisticated travellers.”
