Regent launches a truly global luxury group

March 23, 2006 |

Signalling its enduring commitment to the luxury business and its Regent brand, Carlson companies announced an evolutionary step – the merger of Regent Hotels and Radisson Seven Seas Cruises under its global Regent brand.

The legendary hotel brand Regent, known for its handcrafted and unparalleled service, and the world-class Radisson Seven Seas Cruises, one of the most respected and distinguished luxury cruising ships, have merged to form a unique luxury masterbrand that will set a new milestone in the luxury travel segment. The merger adds a new innovative dimension to a renowned brand and promises a partnership of luxury and personalisation to its loyal guests.

The aligning of ships and hotels will create a seamless integration of ship-to-shore experiences, giving the guests personalised options for pre- and post-cruise hotel stays in Regent Hotels around the world. The new direction will further sustain and develop the global awareness of the brand and bring the Regent experience to a much wider audience. The merger is a significant step towards establishing Regent as one of the world’s leading luxury brands, that offers timeless service and memorable experiences through its hotels, sea cruises, spas, real estates and resorts.

Regent is a legend in the world of hospitality, offering traditional luxury with a contemporary touch. The new vision for the brand re-defines the momentous growth strategy across the globe. Regent Hotels currently operates a portfolio of eight hotels worldwide – three in Europe (Berlin, Almaty and Zagreb), four in Asia (Kuala Lumpur, Shanghai, Singapore and Taipei) and one in the U.S. (Beverly Hills).

Further growth plans of the Regent Hotels include four hotels under construction in the Americas out of which three in Florida (South Beach, Bal Harbour and Winter Park), and one in Boston. Asia, too, will see the rise of three spectacular new Regent hotels in Bangkok, Beijing and Nangbo.

Rezidor SAS welcomes the new direction whole-heartedly and expect the global Regent brand to play a vital role in its future growth. And keeping the guests at the heart of this strategy, plans to create the authentic handcrafted luxury experiences are already well on their way to revive the rich heritage of Regent.

Rezidor SAS Hospitality, one of the fastest growing and most dynamic hospitality companies in the world, is Carlson’s partners in growing the Regent brand in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA). Rezidor SAS currently operates the 3 Regent hotels in Europe and are thrilled with the exciting new development in the future strategy of the brand.

“The new definition of a true legend like Regent, is a firm step in further capitalising on the potential of this brand on a global arena. We have earned a growing reputation in Europe with our properties in Berlin, Zagreb and Almaty, and the re-launch of the brand as a truly global luxury group will open new horizons of development in our region. This is an innovative move in terms of integrating luxury travel, and we look forward to bringing a new age of luxury to our guests,” said Kurt Ritter, President & CEO, Rezidor SAS Hospitality.

Rezidor SAS’ currently plans to open two new Regent Hotels, in Kuwait and Budapest respectively, as part of their overall robust growth strategy to develop Carlson’s brand in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA).

The Regent Kuwait, scheduled to open in 2007, is located on the beautiful beachfront of the Messila district in Kuwait. The hotel will feature 145 luxury guestrooms, 162 exquisite suites, 75 deluxe serviced apartments and 12 charming beachside chalets.

The Regent Budapest is scheduled to open in 2007 in one of the most historic buildings in Budapest, which formerly housed the National Ballet School. Located on the Andrassy Boulevard, the Regent Budapest will offer 198 luxury guestrooms and suites, several restaurants and bars, and an exclusive fitness centre with spa facilities.