Four Seasons moves into South Africa
29 July 2013
Canadian luxury hotel group Four Seasons has signed a long-term management
agreement with The Westcliff hotel in Johannesburg, marking its entry into South
Africa as part of its expansion plans for the rest of Africa.
"Having a property in Johannesburg - the gateway to the whole of southern Africa -
is essential as we explore opportunities for growth in South Africa and across the
continent," executive vice president of worldwide development for Four Seasons
Hotels and Resorts, Scott Woroch, said in a statement last week.
"Africa's economic growth, improved stability and ease of travel have made the
continent increasingly attractive to luxury travellers and Four Seasons."
The Four Seasons Hotel Westcliff Johannesburg is expected to open in the second
quarter of 2014 following renovations and construction.
Renovations include an expanded outdoor terrace, a new spa, fitness centre and
outdoor pool, as well as new
restaurant and bar concepts by United Kingdom design
firm Blacksheep.
The Westcliff's original architects, RSL Architects, have been hired to ensure
renovations are in line with its initial design.
"Recognising the property's prominent location within the city and neighbourhood,
Four Seasons and the property's owners will work closely with local consultants to
ensure the design aesthetic of the property is preserved," the hotel group said.
The opening of the Four Seasons Westcliff will mark the group's second property in
Africa, following the opening of the Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti in Tanzania
in 2012.
"With our recently established development office in Dubai, we plan to be much more
active in Africa, pursuing both new build developments and conversion opportunities
such as the Westcliff and Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, which opened last
year," Woroch said.
Sebastien Carre has been appointed general manager of
the Johannesburg hotel and
brings over 10 years of experience as a general manager at Four Seasons hotels
around the world.
As demand for luxury travel experiences in Africa grows, so does the need for a new
standard of service," said Four Seasons president of hotel operations in Europe,
Middle East and Africa, Christopher Norton.
"Under Sebastien's leadership, Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh [on the Red Sea]
was voted the number one resort in the world in 2011, and we are certain that Four
Seasons Hotel Westcliff Johannesburg will soon take its place among the world's
best."
SAinfo reporter
The Westcliff hotel in Johannesburg, part of the international Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts family (Photo: Gauteng Tourism)
