Following the announcement late last week of the 2023 arrival in Australia of the premium NH Collection brand, HM grabbed 15 minutes with Minor Hotels Australia and New Zealand Chief Operating Officer, Craig Hooley, to discuss the expansion, further growth potential and the impact the label will make on the local hospitality scene.
How long has Minor Hotel Group been eager to introduce the NH Collection brand to Australia?
Since Minor Hotels acquired NH Collection in 2018, we have been on a trajectory for growth globally which included launching the brand in the Australian market. To launch Australia’s first NH Collection hotel in the world-class city of Sydney has been always been our goal, and now that we can do so in one of Sydney’s best locations, we are very excited to be expanding the brand.
Now you have your first site, what are the growth objectives for NH Collection in this market?
NH Collection hotels are always located in prime urban locations in core international destinations. Our growth objective for NH Collection is to open hotels in all major cities in Australia and New Zealand, so that becomes a household name in the upper-upscale market.
How does the NH Collection brand stand out from others in a crowded Sydney market?
Rather than being a ‘cookie-cutter’ hotel, when staying at an NH Collection, guests are able to feel a real sense of place. We ensure that our guests are able to live an authentic cultural experience. This will be achieved through NH Collection Sydney’s exceptional location in Sydney’s CBD, with surroundings that tell a story of the city and architecture influenced by local art and culture. Further, the hotel’s signature restaurant will deliver culturally authentic gastronomic experiences, designed by a celebrated local chef, while guests will also enjoy first class guest relations delivered by Sydney locals with expert local knowledge.
What do guests need to know about NH Collection if they are unfamiliar with the brand?
There are over 80 NH Collection properties globally, with the brand’s flagship hotel based in Madrid, Spain. NH Collection hotels are conceived for city travellers, whether for business or pleasure, who are looking for superb comfort levels, a broad and personalised product and service range, individualised care, premium services and, above all, first-quality facilities at strategic urban locations in core international destinations.
NH Collection strives unfailingly to be an attractive source of inspiration for guests looking to discover all manner of experiences during their stays. For that reason, NH Hotel Group always places its establishments in fabulous and ideally-located areas of the city, surrounded by the most elegant and eclectic neighbourhoods.