Hotels operated by the Hospitality Management Holdings (HMH) reported a strong performance in first quarter of 2014, registering a 10 percent increase in RevPAR (revenue per available room) and 7.2 percent rise in average room rates compared to the corresponding period last year. Laurent A. Voivenel, CEO of HMH, said: “We have been witnessing a consistent increase in demand across all segments which helped boost the occupancy levels and rates. Our first quarter results for 2014 have been very positive, reflecting the power of our brands.” Some of the hotels have done extremely well with Coral Beach Resort-Sharjah, Corp Dubai Al-Wasl Al-Khoory Hotel, Coral Dubai Al-Barsha Al-Khoory Hotel & Apartments, Coral Dubai Deira Hotel and Ewa Dubai Deira Hotel all averaging at 90 percent occupancy and above, he added. Laurent attributes the strong performance to an integrated sales and marketing approach that helped the brands to reach new markets. “Strategic planning, tapping traditional and online travel-agent networks and successful development of new distribution channels are key to driving revenue,” he said. “Our strategy has been to drive business across all vertical sectors that has given us a steady mix of corporate, long-stay, leisure, e-commerce and FIT segment which in turn kept our figures firm. It is important to recognize that different channels cater to different types of customers, and having an appropriately diversified and optimal mix enabled us to drive improved revenue and profit outcomes,” he added. “Moreover, all our hotels enjoy a superb location in close proximity to key commercial and leisure attractions in great cities. Being alcohol-free hotels, we offer a safe and family-friendly environment, with the very best in hospitality topped with the legendary Arabic warmth and welcome. Attention to detail, personalized care and value for money are the hallmarks of our brands.” As the HMH group seeks a wider reach locally and globally, the rest of the year looks equally promising. Laurent stressed: “In terms of the future we remain extremely bullish, as we try to maximize profits.To sustain our growth in a highly competitive environment, it is absolutely essential to have a stronger grip on our business.” — SG
