During ITB Berlin, we had the pleasure of interacting with the dynamic and visionary Michael Henssler, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Centara Hotels & Resorts.

With 30+ years of industry experience, Michael Henssler has proved his acumen across Europe, the Middle East, and China when he was with Kempinski. Now as COO at Centara, Henssler will lead the commercial, operations, and development divisions, aligning with Centara’s ambitious goal of doubling its portfolio and positioning itself as a top 100 global hotel operator by 2027.

Centara Hotels & Resorts, one of the top hotel chains in Asia, is making waves with its ambitious expansion plans. Centara offers luxury accommodations and unparalleled hospitality services. From the pristine beaches of the Maldives to the bustling cityscape of Bangkok and the vibrant culture of Dubai, Centara’s diverse range of properties caters to every type of traveller.

“We have 95 properties either operating or in the pipeline, across all major Thai destinations covering 12 countries and six diverse brands. Globally, we have a presence in the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, China, Japan, Oman, Qatar, Cambodia, Turkey, and the UAE. Our six brands include Centara Reserve, Centara Boutique Collection, Centara Grand, Centara, Centara Life, and COSI Hotels. The latest addition has been the Centara Reserve brand as a luxury collection, starting with Centara Reserve Samui. Our range includes luxury island retreats like in the Maldives, family resorts, and affordable accommodations satisfying most guest needs,” said Henssler.

The six different brands cater to the needs of different segments. While the majority of the group’s hotels are located in leisure destinations, two of our hotels, Centara Grand in the center of Bangkok (Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld, and Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok) see more business travelers visiting. Centara also operates state-of-the-art convention centers – the one at CentralWorld is most popular (I have been here for several events and have always stayed at the Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention). The group also has its own award-winning spa brand, Cenvaree.

Being a family-run business, every Centara property aspires to create a sense of belonging with care, inspiring togetherness among friends and family. The group hopes to deliver new hotel management contracts in dynamic destinations and exciting new international markets through Centara’s collection of six brands and new sectors.

“We get the maximum bookings from Retail, which is 54 percent, including the hotel website and OTAs. The wholesale bookings are about 37 percent; group 7 percent and corporate 2 percent,” said Henssler.

Last year, the group celebrated its 40th anniversary with several new openings, including the 515-key Centara Grand Hotel Osaka, which marked the group’s debut in Japan, and the 224-key Centara Ayutthaya. In the pipeline for 2024 is the 100-key COSI Vientiane Nam Phu, Laos, which becomes the first location outside Thailand for COSI, the affordable lifestyle brand, and the 145-key Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives with an underwater theme. Two of Centara’s flagship hotels – the 335-key Centara Karon Resort Phuket and 553-key Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya – are set to open following comprehensive renovations in 2024.

As hotels go tech-savvy, Henssler said, “Technology will be a driving force, enhancing guest experiences through AI, AR, voice tech, and contactless services. Green initiatives will continue to take center stage.”

The group is already working towards several important environmental targets, including the elimination of single-use plastic by 2025, achieving Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) certification for all its properties by 2025, a 20% reduction in energy, waste, water, and greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, and overall net zero emissions by 2050. In 2023 and 2024, 24 hotels and resorts were certified by GSTC, the world-leading organization dedicated to sustainability and social responsibility, and one hotel was certified by Green Key.

Centara’s global loyalty programme, Centara The1, reinforces their loyalty with rewards, privileges, and special member pricing. Members enjoy a 15% discount on hotel rates and exclusive access to special privileges and offers.

Centara Hotels & Resorts is already a well-known brand in India, thanks to many Indians visiting Thailand. “India is a very important market for us and statistics show that Indian tourists rank among the top nationalities across most of our properties. It is fast emerging as a significant market for Centara Hotels & Resorts as we witness a steady influx of Indian travellers. I am sure through your publication, Global Features we will not only build our image but also attract more tourists,” said Henssler.

When queried on the possibility of a Centara in India, Henssler was positive that it will happen soon as we Indians await their gracious presence.

Centara’s portfolio includes family-friendly resorts, wellness retreats, and luxury beach resorts, each offering unique experiences that reflect the local culture and natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking a serene wellness retreat or an adventure-filled vacation, Centara Hotels & Resorts offers the perfect blend of luxury, sustainability, and cultural immersion. Keep an eye out for their new openings and exclusive hotel deals as they continue to redefine global hospitality.