Onyx News

Bangkok. 7 March 2013. ONYX Hospitality Group announces strong financial performance in 2012 and a steady pace of new hotel signings and openings that will set the pace for continued growth and international expansion.

Double Digit Operating Profit Growth in 2012

As a group, ONYX's total system revenue jumped by 12% in 2012, whilst RevPAR (revenue per available room) also grew by 8%. Through a continued focus on managing cost efficiency, and making the most of the existing ONYX property portfolio, this was converted into a 14% increase in operating profit. The growth observed in 2012 was despite major renovation works taking place in two of the group's largest revenue generating properties, Amari Watergate Bangkok and Amari Coral Beach Phuket.

Commenting on the 2012 performance, Peter Henley, President and CEO of ONYX Hospitality Group said:

"Our increasing portfolio and focus on managing cost efficiency has allowed us to both reinvest in our current properties and achieve solid margin progression, resulting in double-digit profit growth. 2013 will be an exciting year for us as we see our new select service brand, OZO come to life with properties opening in Hong Kong and Colombo. This new brand concept, we feel, will meet consumer demands and corner the dynamic select service market in Asia and beyond."

Online revenue growth and E-Commerce

In 2012, ONYX saw a 30% increase in revenue generated from online channels compared to the 2011 figures. The focus for 2013 will be on social media and mobile advertising, recognising the growth and significance of both these areas. In addition, the integration with Google Hotels Finder and Trip Advisor's Metasearch is already well underway and set to go live by the end of Q1. With multiple online initiatives, ONYX maintains its focus on the core website and booking experience for guests. Responsive website design, mobile booking engines and attaining a single image inventory through Trust CRS are all aspects of the online guest experience that ONYX will be focusing on this year.

Expansion Plans and Developments

ONYX currently operates 34 properties with an inventory of more than 5,000 rooms, across four brands. In 2010, ONYX set a goal to become one of Asia's leading hospitality providers by 2018 with a portfolio of 51 operating properties. By the end of 2013 the Group will have 38 operational properties with an additional 11 contracts signed for the future, ensuring the target set in 2010 should be surpassed well ahead of schedule. In 2013, ONYX will launch the first two OZO properties in Hong Kong and Colombo as well as Amari's first property in India, Amari Ludhiana. Serviced apartments brand Shama will also add a Hangzhou property to its ever increasing portfolio.

OAM Hotels changes name to 'The Mosaic Collection'

ONYX has created a new name and visual identity for its Onyx Asset Managed group of properties, otherwise known as OAM Hotels. The Mosaic Collection consists of properties managed by ONYX, keeping the owner's original name. The collection is made up of small to medium sized properties that provide quality accommodation in their respective destinations. Current properties in The Mosaic Collection ranges from a nature lodge in Thailand's far north to resorts in the leisure hub of Pattaya. The name 'Mosaic' reflects a collection of perhaps not entirely uniformed parts, which form together to create something special, an apt description for the diverse range of properties in this portfolio. 

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About ONYX
ONYX Hospitality Group operates four diverse yet complementary hospitality brands - Saffron, Amari, Shama and OZO - each catering to the distinctive requirements of today's business and leisure travellers. ONYX reaches beyond its Thai roots to offer innovative management solutions across the Indian Ocean, Arabian Gulf and Asia-Pacific regions. Visit www.onyx-hospitality.com.

For more information about this release or to request high-resolution photography, please contact:
Hannah Filer - Director, Communications
Email: hannah.filer@onyx-hospitality.com

BANGKOK, THAILAND – 28 January  2013 – Oriental Residence Bangkok today announced that it was chosen as the overall winner for Bangkok in the luxury hotel and top hotel category by TripAdvisor in its 2013 Travelers’ Choice® awards.

Boasting an enviable position on Wireless Road, in one of Bangkok’s most conserved and green areas, every aspect of Oriental Residence speaks of style: from the unrivalled views over expansive gardens to the chic modernist interiors. A sense of understated elegance permeates the stylishly appointed residences, which range from executive deluxe rooms and one-bedroom suites through to three bedroom residences. Residents enjoy convenient access to the heart of Bangkok’s bustling central business district with a selection of exclusive shopping venues and the efficient BTS Skytrain all close by.

“We are very proud to receive this award and recognition from Trip Advisor. Since opening, our priority has been to anticipate guest’s needs and exceed their expectations and this has been rewarded through the 11 weeks we spent at the number 1 spot for Bangkok accommodation on the site. This achievement is an inspiration for us to continue what we are doing and we thank our guests for their feedback and contributions”. said Paul Siriroj, Executive Assistant Manager of Oriental Residence.

During the first year of business, Oriental Residence received 83% ‘Excellent’ comments and 13% ‘Very Good’ comments from guests. The following statements were made by guests through their posts on the site:

• “The Best Hotel in Bangkok! This hotel needs to be given an additional star to the existing 5.”- Switzerland
• “Excellent hotel! Great service, staff were well trained, extremely polite, helpful and carried the usual big Thai smile!” – Hong Kong
• “The service is immaculate, there seems no limit as to what they can do.... magical”- USA
• “The best hotel in Bangkok....period!”- USA
• “Best Hotel ever been too (To Date):)” – India

For all reviews on the Oriental Residence Bangkok, go to: Oriental Residence Trip Advisor Reviews

Now in its eleventh year, the annual TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice awards honor the world’s best hotels, earning their distinction from those who know them best – real travelers. Unlike any other hotel honors, TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice winners are based on millions of valuable reviews and opinions from travelers around the world. To see 2013 Travelers’ Choice winners, go to www.tripadvisor.com/TravelersChoice.

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Doha, Qatar. 6^th January 2013 - Amari Doha became the first Amari hotel in the Middle East when it opened its doors to the public in the Qatari capital on 1^stJanuary 2013. Amari Doha is owned by Sharaka Holdings, formerly known as GTG and managed by Thailand based, ONYX Hospitality group’s leading upscale brand, Amari.

Ideally located just 15 minutes from Doha International Airport and in convenient reach of Doha’s major commercial centres, the property boasts a prime position for exploring Doha’s historic and cultural sites, including the Islamic Art Centre and Souk Waqif, making it the perfect base for business and leisure-seeking travellers alike.

The 13 storey property features 120 contemporary designed fully appointed rooms, including 78 superior rooms, 36 deluxe rooms and six suites. Facilities include the fresh and fun Breeze Spa, which also features a Jacuzzi and Vichy shower room, Turkish bath, Sauna and steam room, a selection of food and beverage outlets, adult and children’s swimming pools, fitness centre and for visiting executives, a business centre and conferencing and banqueting facilities. The hotel’s rooftop pool lounge also provides stunning panoramic views of Doha’s skyline and the Corniche.

Says Damian Ball, General Manager, Amari Doha: “Amari Doha’s opening is a significant milestone for ONYX Hospitality Group. For the first time, Amari’s genuine Asian hospitality can now be experienced within the Middle East. Leisure travellers will be encouraged to share and experience Doha’s local attractions and hot spots while enjoying Amari Doha’s unique style and friendly service, while business travellers are equally catered to with premium quality accommodation, convenience and thoughtful consideration in both facilities and the availability of creative corporate packages and hospitality solutions.”

Commenting on the new venture, a spokesperson for Sharaka Holdings said: “As an enterprise that encompasses excellence in every business we operate, Sharaka Holdings is proud to partner with ONYX Hospitality Group to bring the reputable Amari brand to Qatar and the Middle East for the first time. With our core values of integrity, sharing and creativity we are confident Amari Doha will become a prominent player in Qatar’s hospitality landscape.”

Discover Amari Doha now with our amazing opening offer which includes: 

• Special rates from 400 QAR
• Complimentary room upgrade to Deluxe
• Guaranteed early check-in from 12:00 and late check-out to 16:00
• 25% discount on food and beverage
• 25% discount at Breeze Spa 

Terms and Conditions: Valid from now to 28 February 2013 and only available for our Superior room category. Complimentary room upgrade is subject to availability. Booking and cancellation policies apply.

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About Amari
Amari is the centrepiece of the ONYX portfolio of hospitality brands reflecting the warmth and energy of an evolving modern Asia. Amari’s network of properties spans Thailand and beyond, from scenic seaside locations to vibrant urban settings including Doha, Bangkok, Pattaya, Koh Chang, Samui, Phuket, Krabi, and Hua Hin. Visit www.amari.com

ONYX Hospitality Group operates four diverse yet complementary hospitality brands – Saffron, Amari, Shama and OZO - each catering to the distinctive requirements of today’s business and leisure travellers. Today, ONYX reaches beyond its Thai roots to offer innovative management solutions across the Indian Ocean, Arabian Gulf and Asia-Pacific regions. Visit www.onyx-hospitality.com.

About Sharaka Holdings
Amari Doha is owned and developed by the prestigious Sharaka Holdings. A dominant entity in The State of Qatar, Sharaka Holdings formerly known as GTG has a lineage of over 40 years.

The Sharaka advantage being its innate dynamism, powerful brand equity, robust fundamentals and diversity spanning seven important sectors: contracting, manufacturing, trading, education, specialized services, restaurants and hospitality.

Sharaka Holdings has earned a reputation of being one of the most credible and well-respected groups in Qatar today. Together we stand committed towards achieving our vision. Come journey with us. Visit www.sharakaholdings.com 


For more information about this release or to request high-resolution photography, please contact:

Hannah Filer - Director, Communications 
Email: hannah.filer@onyx-hospitality.com 

For more information and reservations, visit www.amari.com 

Bangkok, Thailand. 13 November 2012 - Amari is delighted to announce its partnership with BBC Worldwide, to introduce the BBC’s international hit reality TV format Dancing with the Stars to Thailand.

Dancing with the Stars is one of BBC Worldwide’s Global Brands and in 2010 was named as the world’s most successful reality TV format in the Guinness Book of Records.  The show pairs local celebrities from stage, screen and sport with professional dancers who each week teach their partner a dance routine from the world of ballroom or Latin. Every week, the pairs perform their routines in front of a set of judges who mark each couple out of 10. Viewers are also able to vote for their favourite couple with scores from viewers and the judges combined.

With the addition of Thailand, there are 43 local versions of Dancing with the Stars around the world spanning six continents. The brand has also extended into live events, gaming and digital properties.

Commenting on the collaboration, Peter Henley, President and CEO of ONYX Hospitality Group said:

“We are thrilled to be partnering with BBC Worldwide to bring such a globally successful TV show to Thailand. What better way to bring the colours and rhythms of modern Asia to life than through the medium of dance and music. We look forward to embracing Dancing with the Stars and introducing the energy and excitement of the show to our Amari guests and the Thai viewing public.”

For the first time, the show will be financed via an Ad-Funded Programming (AFP) model, with Amari as the exclusive sponsor of the show. Dancing with the Stars premieres on Thailand’s Channel 7 in January 2013 with seven ninety minute episodes. The Thai series will be independently produced by MCL (Metine Company Ltd) and Kantana Group PLC and funded by advertising.  Amari will feature in ad breaks throughout the series and will have logo signage within the show. 

Richard Halliwell, Commercial Director for Dancing with the Stars at BBC Worldwide said:

“This is an exciting deal for us as it reaffirms the global popularity of the format. We were really keen to work with a local partner using a funding model that has huge success in this market.  Many of our commercial rivals have benefited with advertiser-funded models in Asia and we’re looking forward to creating our own success story at BBC Worldwide, starting with Dancing with the Stars in Thailand”.

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ONYX Hospitality Group operates four diverse yet complementary hospitality brands – Saffron, Amari, Shama and OZO - each catering to the distinctive requirements of today’s business and leisure travellers. ONYX reaches beyond its Thai roots to offer innovative management solutions across the Indian Ocean, Arabian Gulf and Asia-Pacific regions. Visit www.onyx-hospitality.com.

About MCL
Metine Company Ltd (MCL) is a Bangkok based TV production and distribution company run by husband and wife team Edward Sharples (ex Managing Director of Endemol, South East Asia) and Thai supermodel and actress Metinee Kingpayome. Contact Metinee@metine.net

About Kantana Group PLC
For the past 60 years Kantana has been committed to bring the highest quality entertainment to Thai society. As one of the oldest and most prominent, Kantana is also one of the most innovative entertainment companies in Thailand. Come journey into the 7^th Decade with Kantana as we lead the Thai entertainment industry onto the world stage.  Visit www.kantana.com

About BBC Worldwide Ltd
BBC Worldwide Limited is the main commercial arm and a wholly owned subsidiary of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). The company exists to exploit the value of the BBC’s assets for the benefit of the licence fee payer and invest in public service programming in return for rights. The company has five core businesses: Channels, Content & Production, Sales & Distribution, Consumer Products and Global Brands. In 2011/12, BBC Worldwide generated headline profits of £155 million on headline sales of £1085 million and returned £216 million to the BBC. For more detailed performance information please see our Annual Review website: http://www.bbcworldwide.com/annualreview www.bbcworldwide.com  www.twitter.com/bbcwpress

For more information about this release or to request high-resolution photography, please contact:

Hannah Filer - Director, Communications
ONYX Hospitality Group                                                T  +66 (0) 2255 3767, +66 (0) 2255 4588
847 Petchburi Road                                                       F  +66 (0) 2255 3718
Bangkok 10400                                                              E  hannah.filer@onyx-hospitality.com
Thailand                                                                          W www.onyx-hospitality.com

Bangkok. 10 October 2012 – Thailand-based hotel management company ONYX Hospitality Group has announced a new OZO resort in the coastal town of Pattaya, Thailand. The new project will bring the total number of new OZO projects under development to seven.

Launching in 2013, the first OZO property will be OZO Wesley Hong Kong. The brand is also set to open its first resort property, OZO Chaweng Samui, on the Thai island of Koh Samui in late 2013. Three further management agreements have been signed with Sino Lanka Hotels Holdings for the development of properties in key Sri Lankan tourist destinations. OZO Pattaya, owned by Boutique Group of Companies, is also commencing construction, whilst a seventh deal has recently been struck in Malaysia.

The 170-room OZO Pattaya will be located in the city centre, within easy reach of Pattaya’s attractions, nightlife and beach. The hotel’s facilities will include a roof top swimming pool and restaurant, fitness centre- Tone, as well as OZO’s innovative ‘grab and go’ snack bar-O2Go. OZO is a select service brand aimed at travellers looking for authentic destination experiences and a great sleep, revitalising the idea of smart travel.

Prab Thakral, Managing Director of Boutique Group of Companies commented:

“Within six years, Boutique Group of Companies has delivered a successful development platform, primarily focusing on limited service hospitality and mid-tier projects in Thailand. With more than seven hospitality projects operating in Thailand, we are delighted to have signed up our latest Pattaya 170-key hotel with ONYX Hospitality Group under the OZO brand.”

Having been in the industry for over 45 years, ONYX Hospitality Group is one of Asia-Pacific’s leading hospitality management companies, with a portfolio that includes 33 operational properties across four diverse yet complementary hotel brands – Saffron, Amari, Shama  and OZO.  In 2010, ONYX set a goal to become one of Asia’s leading providers of hospitality by 2018 with a portfolio of 51 operating properties. By the end of this year the Group will have 34 operational properties with an additional ten contracts signed for the future, ensuring the target set in 2010 should be surpassed ahead of schedule.

Peter Henley, ONYX Hospitality Group President and Chief Executive Officer commented:

“Since launching the OZO brand in 2010, we have seen a lot of interest from developers and owners, mainly due the quality and value which it offers both investors and guests. We currently have seven projects in progress, with three properties expected to open their door in 2013. This fresh new brand will challenge the current set of mid-market hotels as we introduce a luxury sleep, select service and good value price concept.” 

ONYX is a Platinum sponsor at this year’s annual Hotel Investment Conference Asia Pacific (HICAP). HICAP’s 23rd conference will take place in Hong Kong between 10th and 12th October 2012.

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About ONYX Hospitality Group
ONYX Hospitality Group operates four diverse yet complementary hospitality brands – Saffron, Amari, Shama and OZO - each catering to the distinctive requirements of today’s business and leisure travellers. ONYX reaches beyond its Thai roots to offer innovative management solutions across the Indian Ocean, Arabian Gulf and Asia-Pacific regions. Visit www.onyx-hospitality.com.

About OZO
Select service brand OZO offers value and comfort for travellers looking for insider experiences, combined with good connectivity and a great sleep. Created around a simple core concept of fewer frills and more control, it offers on-the-go guests quality services that count and amenities they actually want, enabling them to maximise their time on the road. While each OZO property will be inspired by its location, the central design concept is based on simplicity, comfort, and accessibility combined with innovative technology.

About Boutique Group of Companies
Founded by Mr. Prab Thakral in 2004, Boutique Group of Companies has a proven track record of success in developing high quality mid-market and economy hospitality real estate that includes serviced apartments and hotels. The Boutique Group of Companies has expanded and evolved into one of the leading real estate developers of mid-market and economy in Thailand, with more than 1,000 keys in its portfolio.

For more information about this release or to request high-resolution photography, please contact:

Hannah Filer - Director, Communications
ONYX Hospitality Group                                                T  +66 (0) 2255 3767, +66 (0) 2255 4588
847 Petchburi Road                                                       F  +66 (0) 2255 3718
Bangkok 10400                                                              E   hannah.filer@onyx-hospitality.com
Thailand                                                                          W  www.onyx-hospitality.com

Kandy- Sri Lanka. 10 August 2012 - Thailand-based ONYX Hospitality Group marked a key development in its expansion of the OZO brand in Sri Lanka with a ‘ground breaking’ ceremony to mark the start of construction at the project site of OZO Kandy, the second OZO project underway in Sri Lanka.

The project is a joint venture between Sino Lanka Hotels Holdings, headed by Bob Kundanmal and The Kandy Hotels Co. – owning company of the Queen’s Hotel and Hotel Suisse, headed by Sanjeev Gardiner. ONYX will manage the new hotel under its OZO brand. Construction of OZO Colombo, located on Marine Drive, began earlier this year and a third project is also under discussion in the coastal town of Galle.

The 128 room OZO Kandy will be located adjacent to the Hotel Suisse at Sangaraja Mawatha off the Kandy Lake. The hotel’s facilities will include a swimming pool, gym, two restaurants and OZO’s innovative ‘grab and go’ snack bar, O2Go. OZO is a select service brand aimed at travellers looking for authentic destination experiences and a great sleep, revitalising the idea of smart travel.

Commenting on the proceedings, Simon Allison, Executive Vice President & Chief Development Officer- ONYX Hospitality Group said:

“Tourism in Sri Lanka is booming and we have identified a gap in the market for a product like OZO. This brand offers value and comfort for travellers looking for insider experiences, combined with good connectivity and a great sleep. We are delighted to be breaking ground for the second OZO property in Sri Lanka and we hope this will be one of several ONYX projects in the region. The location in Kandy is absolutely prime and the city will doubtless consolidate its role as the key central hub on the country’s tourism circuit.”

Since the OZO brand was launched in 2009, a number of key projects have been announced. The first ever OZO property will launch in 2013, with OZO Wesley Hong Kong and in early 2014, the first OZO resort will be introduced on the Thai island of Koh Samui.

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Editors’ Note:

ONYX Hospitality Group operates four diverse yet complementary hotel brands – Saffron, Amari, Shama  and Ozo - each catering to the distinctive requirements of today’s business and leisure travellers. The Thailand-based hotel management company also manages a portfolio of independently owned or franchised properties throughout Thailand (www.oamhotels.com). ONYX reaches beyond its Thai roots to offer innovative management solutions across the Indian Ocean, Arabian Gulf and Asia-Pacific regions. Visit www.onyx-hospitality.com

For media enquiries, please contact:
Hannah Filer - Director, Communications
Email: hannah.filer@onyx-hospitality.com

Koh Samui, Thailand. 30 July 2012 - Thailand-based ONYX Hospitality Group marked a key milestone in the development of one of its upcoming projects, OZO Chaweng Samui, with a ‘ground breaking’ ceremony to mark the start of construction at the project site.  

Located in the popular and central resort area, Chaweng, the new OZO will be the first OZO property in Thailand as well as the first OZO resort for the brand. OZO is aimed at travellers looking for insider experiences and a great sleep, revitalising the idea of smart travel.

Commenting on the proceedings, Peter Henley, Chief Executive Officer, ONYX Hospitality Group, said:  “We are delighted to be breaking ground for the second ONYX property on the island of Koh Samui which, as a destination, continues to attract visitors from around the world. We are confident that our select service brand, OZO will be a popular addition to the hospitality landscape on this popular resort island, offering comfortable and good value accommodation.”

Scheduled to welcome its first guests in early 2014, OZO Chaweng Samui will offer 208 sleep inducing guest rooms and innovative communal zones. Set on a picturesque stretch of beach, the hotel’s recreational facilities will include a swimming pool, children’s pool, two restaurants and a beach bar. 

Since the OZO brand was launched in 2009, a number of key projects have been announced. The first ever OZO property will launch in 2013, with OZO Wesley Hong Kong. Two further management agreements have been signed with Sino Lanka Hotels Holdings for the development of properties in key Sri Lankan cities, Colombo and Kandy.

# # #

Editors’ Note:

ONYX Hospitality Group operates four diverse yet complementary hotel brands – Saffron, Amari, Shama  and Ozo - each catering to the distinctive requirements of today’s business and leisure travellers. The Thailand-based hotel management company also manages a portfolio of independently owned or franchised properties throughout Thailand (www.oamhotels.com). ONYX reaches beyond its Thai roots to offer innovative management solutions across the Indian Ocean, Arabian Gulf and Asia-Pacific regions. Visit www.onyx-hospitality.com

ONYX already operates a resort on the island of Koh Samui, under its 4-star brand, Amari. The Amari Palm Reef team were also present at the event to mark the occasion.

For media enquiries, please contact:
Hannah Filer - Director, Communications
Email: hannah.filer@onyx-hospitality.com

Bangkok. 30 July 2012. Bangkok-based hotel management company ONYX Hospitality Group is set to conquer new markets, opening its first Amari properties in the Middle East and India, and plans to enter Sri Lanka in 2014 with new select service brand, OZO.

In 2010, ONYX set a goal to become one of Asia’s leading providers of hospitality by 2018 with a portfolio of 51 operating properties. By the end of this year the Group will have 34 operational properties with an additional eight contracts signed for the future, ensuring the target set in 2010 should be surpassed well ahead of schedule.

ONYX Hospitality Group President and Chief Executive Officer, Peter Henley commented:

“2012 is an important year for ONYX, as we see the company open three properties, whilst also taking our first steps as a company into three new markets. In 2013 we will also be welcoming guests to our first ever OZO property in Hong Kong, paving the way for several further OZO projects in the near future."

“Our expansion plans into the Middle East and India present a great opportunity for us to take advantage of growing domestic visitor numbers, whilst plans to expand our offering into Sri Lanka will ensure we have a foothold in one of the world’s fastest-growing tourism destinations. A fundamental part of our expansion strategy is to develop operations in a geographical area stretching from the Middle East to China and Australia, ensuring logistical and operational control from our Bangkok headquarters.”

ONYX HOSPITALITY GROUP EXPANSION PLANS AND DEVELOPMENTS

Amari - Three New Properties in Qatar, India and Thailand

The centrepiece of the ONYX portfolio, established brand, Amari will see development at both a brand and territory level from 2012 onwards. In Thailand, the opening of Amari Hua Hin in August 2012, will see the first purpose built Amari property to embrace the new look and feel of the brand since it introduced its new concept in 2009. In October 2012, Amari Doha in Qatar will open its doors, marking Amari’s first step into the Middle East. Mid 2013 will see another first for the brand, as the first Amari property in India is formally introduced with Amari Ludhiana, following a soft opening period. As well as the new openings, the brand will also be making enhancements to its existing property portfolio.

OZO - Four new properties in Hong Kong, Sri Lanka and Thailand

The first OZO property will launch in 2013, with OZO Wesley Hong Kong. The brand is also set to open its first resort property, OZO Chaweng Samui, on the Thai island of Koh Samui in late 2013. Two further management agreements have been signed with Sino Lanka Hotels Holdings for the development of properties in key Sri Lankan cities, Colombo and Kandy. OZO is aimed at travellers looking to discover new parts of the world, offering a great sleep experience and revitalisig the idea of smart travel.

Oriental Residence Bangkok - ONYX’s first Luxury venture

Marking the group’s first luxury venture, Oriental Residence Bangkok opened its doors on the 23^rd January 2012. Set in an iconic 32 storey building, the property boasts a celebrated location to complement its stylish and elegant accommodation, facilities and dining options. The mixed use development also houses privately owned condominiums.

Shama - Opening in Hangzhou, China

Shama has secured a management contract for a new development in China in the city of Hangzhou. Shama HEDA Hangzhou is scheduled to open late 2013 in the capital and largest city of Zhejiang Province in Eastern China. This latest development for Shama will strengthen the brand’s positioning as a market leader of luxurious serviced apartments in Greater China whilst also propelling growth in the Asia region.

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About ONYX Hospitality Group

ONYX Hospitality Group operates four diverse yet complementary hotel brands – Saffron, Amari, Shama and OZO - each catering to the distinctive requirements of today’s business and leisure travellers. ONYX reaches beyond its Thai roots to offer innovative management solutions across the Indian Ocean, Arabian Gulf and Asia-Pacific regions. Visit www.onyx-hospitality.com

For more information about this release or to request high-resolution photography, please contact:

Hannah Filer - Director, Communications

ONYX Hospitality Group                                                T  +66 (0) 2255 3767, +66 (0) 2255 4588
847 Petchburi Road                                                       F  +66 (0) 2255 3718
Bangkok 10400                                                              E  hannah.filer@onyx-hospitality.com
Thailand                                                                          W  www.onyx-hospitality.com

Thailand-based ONYX Hospitality Group has been appointed by Gulf Trading and Contracting Company (GTC) to operate a 120-room hotel in the Qatari capital, Doha. This is ONYX’s first step for expansion in the Middle East for the Amari brand. The property is scheduled to open in September 2012.

Ideally located just 15 minutes from Doha International Airport, the property also boasts a prime position for exploring Doha’s historic and cultural sites, including the Islamic Art Centre and Souk Waqif, ranked # 1 of things to do in Doha by Lonely Planet readers. Through a Doha enthusiast, based on property, Amari will make sure guests feel connected to the local culture and attractions.

ONYX President and Chief Executive Officer, Peter Henley, said:

“This project will be the first Amari property in the Middle East. It is a significant milestone for us and we plan to bring the personalised guest services and experiences that are a key attribute of the Amari brand to the region. Amari Doha will provide genuine Asian hospitality with a modern twist.”

“Business travellers will enjoy premium quality, convenience and thoughtful consideration through our creative corporate packages and thoughtfully designed meeting spaces. Leisure travellers too will experience Amari Doha’s unique style, exceptional service and leisure facilities whilst also being encouraged to enjoy the local places of interest.”
The 13 storey property features 120 contemporary fully appointed rooms, including 78 superior rooms, 36 deluxe rooms, and six suites. Each room is stylishly decorated whilst also offering guests the ultimate comfort and luxury. In-room amenities will include LCD flat screen television, a comfortable lounge area, Wi-Fi internet access along with a work desk fitted with an iPod docking station.
Amari Doha offers a selection of dining options, each with its own unique offering based around Amari’s concept of bringing people together and sharing. For the ultimate relaxation, guests will be able to indulge in body treatments at Breeze Spa which, in addition to fun and easy treatments, will also feature a Jacuzzi and a Vichy shower room. A fully equipped fitness centre will also be available for those feeling more energetic.

-END-

About ONYX:
ONYX Hospitality Group operates four diverse yet complementary hotel brands – Saffron, Amari, Shama  and OZO - each catering to the distinctive requirements of today’s business and leisure travellers. The Thailand-based hotel management company also manages a portfolio of independently owned or franchised properties throughout Thailand (www.oamhotels.com). ONYX reaches beyond its Thai roots to offer innovative management solutions across the Indian Ocean, Arabian Gulf and Asia-Pacific regions. Visit www.onyx-hospitality.com.

For media enquiries, please contact:
Hannah Filer - Director, Communications
ONYX Hospitality Group   T  +66 (0) 2255 3767, +66 (0) 2255 4588
847 Petchburi Road           F  +66 (0) 2255 3718
Bangkok 10400                   E  send an enquiry
Thailand                              W www.onyx-hospitality.com

There are many reasons to visit Oriental Residence Bangkok, not least of all for the excellently appointed ladies bathroom on the 4th floor.

With panoramic views over 180 degrees of lush green landscaped gardens; it is easy to forget the property is in the centre of busy Bangkok. Where better place to touch up make up or indulge in female conversation? Designed as an area for women to relax and enjoy the view, the bathroom features rotating mirrors, so the outlook is never obscured as well as a separate vanity station for two.

Gentleman visitors have not been forgotten and a visit to the men’s bathroom on the same floor will not disappoint.  Offering an attractive vantage point overlooking the palatial gardens of the Dutch Embassy, even male visitors will be tempted to linger in this room with a view.

Boasting an enviable position on Wireless Road, in one of Bangkok’s most preserved and green areas, every aspect of Oriental Residence Bangkok speaks of style: from the unrivalled views over expansive gardens to the chic modernist interiors. Residents enjoy convenient access to the heart of Bangkok’s bustling central business district with a selection of exclusive shopping venues and the efficient Bangkok Transit System (BTS Skytrain) all close by.

Sample the elegance for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Café Claire offers a welcome respite in the heart of Bangkok, serving gourmet comfort food - the relaxed atmosphere exudes sophistication within the opulent surroundings. 

Oriental Residence Bangkok is offering an exciting selection of special promotions featured on www.oriental-residence.com.

-  End –

Editors’ Note

About Oriental Residence Bangkok:
Epitomising casual elegance and traditional luxury - Oriental Residence Bangkok offers refined accommodation surrounded by a lush enclave in the centre of the city. Unparalleled attentiveness and cordial service attracts business and leisure guests, alike to this Bangkok serviced residence. Featuring 145 lavishly appointed serviced residences ideal for extended stays, a signature Chinese restaurant, the chic Café Claire, the Play Deck, and diverse function facilities - Oriental Residence Bangkok embodies a tradition of personalised excellence.

About ONYX:
ONYX Hospitality Group operates four diverse yet complementary hotel brands – Saffron, Amari, Shama  and OZO - each catering to the distinctive requirements of today’s business and leisure travellers. The Thailand-based hotel management company also manages a portfolio of independently owned or franchised properties throughout Thailand (www.oamhotels.com). ONYX reaches beyond its Thai roots to offer innovative management solutions across the Indian Ocean, Arabian Gulf and Asia-Pacific regions. Visit www.onyx-hospitality.com.
 
For more information or to request high-resolution imagery, please contact:
Hannah Filer - Director, Communications
ONYX Hospitality Group   T  +66 (0) 2255 3767, +66 (0) 2255 4588
847 Petchburi Road         F  +66 (0) 2255 3718
Bangkok 10400                E  send an enquiry
Thailand                            W  www.onyx-hospitality.com