Marriott International has plans to open up four new properties in Thailand by the end the year. This shows its commitment to Thailand’s growing tourism and hospitality sector.
Marriott, which already has 54 properties in Thailand, aims to enhance its portfolio with the introduction of two new Marriott Executive Apartments, the first Marriott-branded resort in Khao Lak and The Ritz-Carlton Bangkok. This will mark a significant milestone in luxury hospitality in Thailand’s capital.
Brad Edman, Market Director for Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar and Marriott International, spoke to and highlighted the brand’s strategy for Thailand.
“Our expansion reflects Marriott’s confidence in Thailand’s potential as a global tourist destination and our commitment towards driving the country’s tourism sector’s growth.”
Marriott’s workforce in Thailand currently exceeds 12,000 employees, and the company intends to increase recruitment efforts as its portfolio continues to grow.
The growth of the hospitality industry in Thailand coincides at a time that Thailand is experiencing a resurgence within its tourism sector. The recent liberalisation of visa rules by the Thai government and its policy of positioning tourism as a key “soft power industry” driving the economy has contributed significantly to this momentum.
The country will welcome 39 millions international visitors in 2018, with projections of 40 million by 2025.
Edman stated:
“Thailand is a global icon in the tourism industry, and we’re fully committed to its future prosperity.”
Thai AirAsia operates 12 routes between Bangkok and major Indian cities including Kolkata, Chennai Jaipur, Bangalore and Hyderabad. There are 67 flights per week. The additions of the Hyderabad-Bangkok, and Chennai-Phuket flights further strengthens the airline’s commitment to meeting the growing demand between India and Thailand.
Marriott has been operating in Thailand since 1994, and has steadily increased its presence. 40 new properties are currently being planned. In addition to its ambitious plans for growth, the company also focuses on nurturing local talents through collaborations, offering internships, and potential employment opportunities, with 12 Thai Universities. Edman highlighted that this initiative was part of Marriott’s commitment to contributing to the local economies:
“We’re not just expanding the hotel portfolio, we’re also putting money into the future of Thailand hospitality talent.”
The Ritz-Carlton Bangkok will be the first Marriott luxury brand to open in Thailand’s capital, Bangkok. It will cater to high-end travellers from around the world and set a new standard for luxury hospitality. The addition of a Marriott-branded beach hotel in Khao Lak diversifies the company’s offerings in Thailand, especially for leisure tourists looking for premium beach experiences.
Marriott’s continued expansion and investment in Thailand’s tourism industry underscores the brand’s commitment towards supporting the country, creating jobs and contributing to the economy.
