Virgin Group’s hospitality businesses, Virgin Hotels Collection and Virgin Limited Edition, have been combined under a new parent brand to form the Virgin Hotels Collection. The CEO of Virgin Hotels Collection, James Bermingham, recently discussed the latest updates on the Virgin Limited Edition properties. They have opened Son Bunyola on Mallorca and signed Finch Hattons in Kenya, a 17-suite safari camp in Tsavo National Park. Additionally, Kasbah Tamadot in Morocco is undergoing restorations and additions following a devastating earthquake in September of last year.
In terms of the Virgin Hotels brand, New York opened last year with great success, and plans are underway to break ground in Denver this year for a new Virgin Hotels property. The brand will also debut Virgin Hotels London-Shoreditch in August, marking a significant milestone in bringing the Virgin brand to the city where it all began over 50 years ago.
While facing challenges in the capital markets for refinancing existing hotels and financing new developments, Virgin Hotels Collection remains focused on growth and conversions. The current travel landscape is promising, with robust business travel, strong leisure demand, and a record year expected for group travel. The fastest-growing segment in group travel is incentive travel, with Virgin Limited Edition catering to various exclusive-use events, from corporate retreats to weddings.
Looking ahead, Virgin Hotels Collection is actively exploring opportunities in Italy and prioritizing markets where Virgin Voyages sails. The synergy with other Virgin Group companies, such as Virgin Atlantic, Virgin Voyages, Virgin Galactic, and Virgin Atlantic Holidays, has been a significant strength for Virgin Hotels. The alignment of brand loyalty and strategic hotel locations near major Virgin Atlantic routes like New York and Vegas has been a key driver of success for the brand.
Overall, the future looks bright for Virgin Hotels Collection under the leadership of CEO James Bermingham. With a focus on strategic expansion, capitalizing on group travel trends, and leveraging the strong Virgin brand ecosystem, the brand is poised for continued growth and success in the competitive hospitality industry.