Introduction
In an exciting development for the hospitality industry, LOTTE HOLDINGS (headquartered in Shinjuku, Tokyo), in collaboration with Hotel Lotte from South Korea, has established a new company called LOTTE HOTELS JAPAN. The venture aims to capitalize on the growing hotel market in Japan and expand its operations within the country.
Background
Founded in 1973, Hotel Lotte has emerged as a leader in the hotel sector in South Korea, with notable landmarks including the Lotte Hotel Seoul, which opened in 1979. Today, they boast an impressive portfolio of 39 hotels across seven countries, providing over 14,135 guest rooms. In Japan, they currently operate two facilities: Lotte City Hotel Kinshicho in Tokyo and Lotte Arai Resort in Niigata.
Starting from 2022, the company has propelled its global strategy under the slogan 'ONE LOTTE', merging business opportunities from Japan and South Korea. With joint enterprises like LOTTE HOTELS JAPAN, they are committed to amplifying their reach by engaging in partnerships with hotel owners across the country, focusing on a Management Contract (MC) model that will facilitate management and ownership synergies.
Future Plans
Over the upcoming decade, LOTTE HOTELS JAPAN has ambitious plans to establish 20 hotels with 4,500 rooms, including existing properties, all centered in major and tourist cities. With Japan’s tourism sector set to rebound, driven by the anticipated influx of 36.87 million international visitors in 2024, of which 23.9% are expected to be from South Korea, LOTTE HOTELS JAPAN is poised for significant growth. The Japanese government aims to attract 60 million foreign visitors by 2030, further hinting at favorable market conditions for hotel expansion.
Strengths of LOTTE HOTELS JAPAN
The company thrives on a wealth of expertise in hotel management honed in both Japan and South Korea. LOTTE HOTELS JAPAN plans to tailor Hotel Lotte's varying brands—from luxury accommodations to resorts—to suit the preferences of the Japanese market. By doing so, they aim to cater to diverse customer needs, craft exceptional experiences, and forge strong partnerships with hotel owners for mutual growth.
The Team Behind the New Company
LOTTE HOTELS JAPAN is led by Tomoya Fukui, who brings extensive experience from renowned establishments such as The Westin Tokyo and Nikko Hotels. Fukui envisions the company as not just a service provider but as a partner that promises unique experiences steeped in local culture. He emphasizes that travel expectations are evolving, ushering in an era that values enriching experiences that connect travelers to their inner selves.
Brand Strategy
LOTTE HOTELS JAPAN strategically aims to carry forward Hotel Lotte's luxurious ambiance and DNA while adapting its diverse portfolio—ranging from lifestyle hotels to resort environments—to capture the hearts of the Japanese audience. The company's approach will center on promoting well-being through tailored experiences that include wellness-focused programs and local explorations, thereby enhancing the brand's value.
Operational Capabilities
As a hotel operator, LOTTE HOTELS JAPAN is committed to supporting hotel owners with expansion and revenue enhancement initiatives. Their core operational strategies encompass:
- - Developing tailored hotel strategies and recommendations based on area characteristics and target guests.
- - Comprehensive support from operational design to successful hotel openings.
- - Establishing effective operational guidelines and assisting in personnel training.
The MC model empowers hotel owners to utilize LOTTE's operational nuances while maintaining control over property ownership, creating a symbiotic partnership aimed at maximizing profitability.
Conclusion
LOTTE HOTELS JAPAN represents more than just a new company; it is a promising partnership that brings a wealth of experience and brand prestige from the Lotte family. With strategic planning and innovative approaches to hospitality, it sets the stage for a fundamental shift in the hotel industry landscape between Japan and South Korea. The combination of local charm and international expertise positions LOTTE HOTELS JAPAN to emerge as a key player in Japan's dynamic lodging market. Travelers can anticipate an enriching array of offerings that not only meet their needs but also create lasting memories during their stay.
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