Kenya’s hospitality industry is bouncing back from challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and climate change related issues such as flooding and heavy rains.
The industry continues to face innovative and vibrant activities across the market, with various players working tirelessly to improve tourist experience, a development that has seen the entry of big hotel chains into the market.
Among the new entrants include Pullman Hotels and Resorts, a brand by Accor set to be unveiled formally on June 20, 2024. The hotel, based in Upper Hill, Nairobi, is literally taking art out of the museum, from local art in the lobby to local cousin, drinks, and events.
“This is not just a place to stay. This is a place to improve, to innovate, and to inspire,” the hotel’s general manager, Mr. Gerard Moutou, told a battery of journalists during a media tour. “Our uniqueness is that Pullman is taking art out of the museum. The art at Pullman is an experience that we can take away and keep forever. We have a dedicated art corner that will be regularly refreshed to immerse guests in the vibrant local culture, design, and photography scenes, in the most unexpected of ways. This is an immersive installation that turns guests into works of art for unique photo opportunities.”
Hotels can be places where people sometimes feel disconnected. Pullman takes its cues from the “global destinations” with the goal of promoting discovery and social interactions.
On sustainability programs, Mr Moutou says, the establishment is keen on environmental conservation activities as well as working closely with the local community.
“We pride ourselves with being organic and obtaining supplies from the local community. All our foods and beverages are outsourced locally, because we believe in supporting and improving the lives of those we work with. We also want our guests to have a feel of this country’s local products,” he explains.
Technology plays a major role in operations of the new kid on the block, with Moutou saying that there is need to maintain the “latest technological trends” that the market has to offer. This, he adds, is evident across the hotel’s facilities, from the lobby, conference and meeting rooms, as well as guest rooms.
Having unveiled the first WOJO Workspitality® in the country, it is evident that technology is a major tool to ensure comfort. WOJO offers “dynamic flexible spaces” – including private offices, meeting rooms, enterprise, and coworking solutions for businesses.
These spaces seamlessly blend the functionality of a professional office with the comfort of hospitality, marking the introduction of the pioneering Workspitality® concept in East and Central Africa. WOJO is designed to meet the evolving needs of modern professionals, entrepreneurs, self-employed workers and teleworkers, and offers a stimulating atmosphere conducive to creativity, collaboration and productivity.
“As we enter the final stages of Pullman Hotel launch this month, we look forward to working closely with all the parties involved in order to move the hospitality sector forward. The government has been very supportive and we are grateful. We are proud of our development partners in the country and across the globe, as we look forward to offer best services and experience, as well as create memories,” says Moutou.
