Marriott International continues to expand its footprint across the African continent by announcing the signing of two new properties in South Africa, in partnership with The Amdec Group.
Expected to open by February 2018, the 150-room Johannesburg Marriott Hotel Melrose Arch and 200-unit Marriott Executive Apartments Johannesburg Melrose Arch will be located in the Melrose Arch precinct in Johannesburg. The two properties represent the company’s signature brand, Marriott Hotels, as well as its upscale serviced apartments brand, Marriott Executive Apartments, and will be the first Marriott-branded properties under development in South Africa.
“Africa is important to Marriott International’s growth strategy because of its rapid economic growth, growing middle class and youth population, as well as the expansion of international flights onto the continent,” explains Alex Kyriakidis, president and managing director, Middle East and Africa for Marriott International.
Marriott became the largest hotel operator in Africa following its acquisition of South Africa’s leading hotels group, Protea Hotels, in 2014. Over the next five years, the company expects the Marriott International brands, including the Protea brand, will expand from 10 African countries to 18, involving the development of an additional 38 properties across 7 brands.
James Wilson, CEO of The Amdec Group, owners of the iconic Melrose Arch mixed-use precinct, is excited to be partnering with Marriott International, commenting, “Melrose Arch is a magnificent multi-faceted new urban quarter and the perfect location for Marriott’s first two signature brand properties in South Africa. At Melrose Arch our focus is very much on creating an unforgettable experience with a vibrant atmosphere in a secure environment where people can work, shop, relax and stay. The Johannesburg Marriott Hotel Melrose Arch and Marriott Executive Apartments Johannesburg Melrose Arch provide contemporary and innovative hospitality that adds to Melrose Arch’s current offering.”
The Marriott Hotels brand currently has 17 hotels in seven countries across the Middle East and Africa, with almost 6,000 rooms. By 2020, the company expects to open a further 18 properties across the region, raising the room count by over 4,000 rooms. The Johannesburg Marriott Hotel Melrose Arch has 150 rooms, significant conference and event facilities, accommodating up to 500 delegates. Other facilities include a business centre and restaurant, fitness centre and outdoor pool, which can be enjoyed by the Marriott Executive Apartments Johannesburg Melrose Arch guests.
