Radisson Blu: Reaching New Heights as a Global Brand
SUMMARY – RADISSON BLU, A GLOBALLY RECOGNIZED HOSPITALITY BRAND, SECURES THE LEADING HOTEL GROUP IN AFRICA AWARD, VALIDATING ITS CONTINENT-WIDE EXPANSION. WITH A STRONG PRESENCE IN AFRICA AND A FOCUS ON CREATING MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES, RADISSON BLU IS POSITIONED FOR CONTINUED GROWTH, INSPIRING UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS FOR GUESTS GLOBALLY.
At the recent World Travel Awards, Radisson Blu achieved a significant milestone by winning the Leading Hotel Group in Africa Award. This recognition not only validates the group’s efforts and rapid expansion across the continent in recent years. But it also highlights the remarkable journey of Radisson Blu as a globally renowned hospitality brand, including its presence in Africa. Together with other luxury brands like Radisson Collection, Radisson, Radisson Red, Radisson Individual, and more, Radisson Blu forms an integral part of the Radisson Hotel Group. The group’s story began in 1960 with the launch of the world’s first designer hotel in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Setting Itself Apart from the Beginning
Since its inception, Radisson Blu has always strived to differentiate its hotels within the group. According to Tim Cordon, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East, and Africa – Radisson Hotel Group, the focus has consistently been on delivering memorable moments, embodying true hospitality, and fostering strong partnerships. The brand itself emerged from a franchise agreement signed between SAS International Hotels and Carlson Hotels in 1994, known initially as Radisson SAS and later rebranded as Radisson Blu in 2009. Within a year, it became the largest upscale hotel brand in Europe. Today, Radisson Blu boasts over 380 locations worldwide, all dedicated to offering unparalleled service, comfort, and style, while creating meaningful and unforgettable experiences.
Making Its Mark in Africa
Radisson Blu has also established a prominent presence in Africa. Its journey on the continent began with the opening of the Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel in Cape Town, South Africa, at the turn of the new millennium. Since then, the brand has steadily expanded across Africa, building an extensive portfolio of properties. Cordon emphasizes the brand’s commitment to providing guests with more meaningful and memorable experiences in a stylish environment. He highlights the importance of supporting guests in even the smallest ways, fostering connections, and nourishing them mentally and physically. Radisson Blu’s growth in Africa has been substantial, with nearly 40 hotels either in operation or under development, spanning from Casablanca in the North to Cape Town in the South, totaling close to 8000 rooms.
READ: Radisson Blu Opens First Resort in Zambia, Embracing Victoria Falls’ Beauty and Sustainability
Africa’s Significance for Radisson Blu’s Future
Cordon further states that Africa plays a critical role in the next phase of growth for Radisson Blu and the Radisson Hotel Group as a whole. The continent’s innovation and enterprise inspire the brand, and they eagerly anticipate opening more hotels in the near future. Winning the category at the World Travel Awards validates their accomplishments in Africa. That strengthens their determination to continue delivering the magical moments for which Radisson Blu is renowned. Radisson Blu stands as an upper-upscale hotel brand that offers positive and personalized service in stylish spaces. With meticulous attention to detail and the Yes I Can! service philosophy, Radisson Blu hotels aim to make a significant impact and inspire unforgettable experiences with every guest stay. Radisson Blu is part of the wider Radisson family of brands, which includes Radisson Collection, Radisson, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn and Suites by Radisson, and prizeotel, united under the commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels.
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