HMH - Hospitality Management Holdings launched

HMH consists of 6 independent firms out of which 4 are hotel management companies. Sheikh Mohammed said, 'We have had remarkable growth ever since the launch of Coral International Hotels, Resorts & Spas in 2004.

Within 4 years we have created 4 strong hospitality brands. This necessitated the formation of a parent company i.e. HMH.

The move follows the decision taken by the board of directors and is part of our efforts to restructure the corporation.'

The business operations of any of the subsidiaries under HMH will not change as a result of the organization. Following the reorganization, Coral International's current directors will serve as the directors of HMH.

Michel said: 'The creation of HMH is part of our strategy of consolidation. While giving a boost to our brands, it will strengthen our position tremendously. Single, independent entities are diminishing worldwide and the big groups growing. The formation of HMH would help us to align our company's structure better with our subsidiaries while giving us the flexibility to achieve our global development objectives. In addition, it will help us to meet the challenges from the emerging markets and the competition. At this point it is extremely important for us to position ourselves strongly to materialize the upcoming opportunities.'

The group has been aggressively expanding in the Middle East with four niche brands and has already signed 40 projects across the region. It now has a strong interest in Asia, particularly China, India and Pakistan. Africa too remains big on its plans with several projects already lined up in North and South Africa.

Highlighting the ambitions of HMH to expand internationally, Michel said, 'We are well placed for the future and are looking for a bigger presence in the Middle East, Asia and Africa. The move is aimed to maximize HMH's presence beyond the region as well as to open other strategic options for the group. Our objective is to develop 100 hotels in the coming 4 years.'

Michel reckoned, 'Real growth lies in niche markets. Hospitality is all about providing guests services and products tailored to their needs. We offer our clients a full spectrum of choice in terms of hospitality - from top-end luxury hotels to select service hotels, budget hotels and serviced apartments. Each of our brands - Coral International Hotels, Resorts & Spas, Corp Executive Hotels, ECOS Hotels and EWA Hotel Apartments - is designed to provide its clientele a unique experience.'

Outlining the pillars of HMH success, Michel said, 'Respect for local culture and traditions, innovation, attention to detail and care and proximity to the local community remain the core of our values and corporate philosophy.'

He added, 'We are in the perfect scenario where consumer demand for hotel accommodations for both business and leisure travellers is strong and growing. In fact, hospitality is Dubai's most vibrant and exciting industry thanks to the government's numerous initiatives. This is driving hotel profitability. Being head-quartered in Dubai we are well-placed to benefit from these trends. Technology too has brought good news for the global traveller. Self booking tools help us to secure business from around the world.'

HMH is gearing up for a huge splash at the Arabian Travel Market 2008. Michel informs, 'We have booked two independent stands, both extremely well located in Hall 1 (Stand No. HC 550 and HC 540) next to each other. While one will be dedicated to HMH the other will be shared by the four brands under the umbrella i.e. Coral International Hotels, Resorts & Spas, Corp Executive Hotels, ECOS Hotels and EWA Hotel Apartements. ATM will be the perfect opportunity for us to introduce HMH to the trade.'