Hilton is embarking on a significant expansion of its luxury hotel portfolio in the Asia Pacific region, aiming to surpass 150 luxury properties in the coming years. This ambitious goal builds upon the company’s already impressive portfolio of luxury brands, including Waldorf Astoria, Conrad, and LXR Hotels & Resorts.
A key factor in Hilton’s expansion strategy is its exclusive partnership with Small Luxury Hotels of the World. This collaboration brings a unique collection of boutique hotels to Hilton’s luxury offerings, adding distinctive properties like Lanson Place Causeway Bay in Hong Kong and Gangtey Lodge in Bhutan.
Hilton’s commitment to luxury is further demonstrated by its recent agreements for new properties like Waldorf Astoria Jaipur and Conrad Jaipur in India, as well as Conrad Yokohama in Japan. This expansion is set to continue with the launch of seven new Waldorf Astoria properties in key cities like Osaka, Kuala Lumpur, Sydney, Shanghai, Tokyo, Xi’an, and Hanoi over the next two years. Conrad Hotels & Resorts will also expand its presence in destinations like Xi’an, Chengdu, Nanjing, and Nagoya.
Over the past year, Hilton has broadened its luxury footprint in Southeast Asia with the debut of Umana Bali, its second LXR Hotels & Resorts property, following the successful launch of ROKU KYOTO in Japan. The company has also expanded its presence in Greater China with the opening of Conrad Shenzhen and Conrad Chongqing, marking its 700th property in the region.
This significant expansion is driven by the burgeoning demand for luxury travel experiences. Hilton’s 2024 GenerAsian Travelers Trends Report reveals that many Asian consumers are prioritizing travel over other purchases, leading to an increase in travel spending compared to the previous year.
The report also highlights the evolving needs of luxury travelers, with a growing interest in wellness experiences, innovative dining options, and cultural immersion. Across China, India, Japan, and Singapore, 77% of travelers expressed a desire to connect with their heritage through travel, while 88% ranked local cuisine as a top priority during their trips.
Hilton’s commitment to the luxury market extends beyond Asia Pacific. The company is also expanding its presence in the luxury lifestyle market with NoMad and has introduced the Hilton for Luxury program, a global initiative designed to enhance the travel experience for luxury advisors. This program offers enhanced connectivity, personalized services, and exclusive access to Hilton’s luxury brands, further elevating the guest experience.
With its ambitious expansion plans and focus on meeting the evolving needs of luxury travelers, Hilton is poised to become a dominant player in the luxury hospitality market in Asia Pacific and beyond.