Luxury boutique hotel brand, Hemingways Collection, has announced plans to expand into new markets and continued investments in existing properties to enhance guest experience.
Speaking during celebrations to mark ten years of Hemingways Nairobi and Hemingways Collection, CEO Ross Evans says “We are extremely excited and proud to celebrate our 10-year anniversary. We remain dedicated to upholding its position as Kenya’s luxury boutique hotel brand, ensuring that every guest experiences the utmost in luxury, service, and adventure.”
The journey of Hemingways Collection commenced in 2013, but its roots trace back to 1988 with the opening of Hemingways Watamu, on the Kenyan coast. Over the past ten years, the brand has achieved numerous significant milestones:
- 2011: The construction of Hemingways Nairobi began, laying the foundation for an exceptional luxury boutique hotel, which is a leader in Africa. The Group also acquired Ol Seki camp and joined the Naboisho Conservancy in the Maasai Mara.
- 2013: Hemingways Nairobi, a 45-suite luxury boutique hotel, welcomed its first guests and Hemingways Collection was officially launched, offering city, bush and beach experiences.
- 2018: Hemingways Watamu underwent a comprehensive refurbishment, elevating its charm and comfort.
- 2022: Hemingways Eden joined Hemingways Collection, marking the brand’s first management contract. Concurrently, Hemingways Ol Seki embarked on a substantial refurbishment, ensuring the highest standards of comfort and luxury.
Hemingways Collection properties have consistently earned the designation of Travelers’ Choice by TripAdvisor, a testament to their commitment to service and guest satisfaction.
“Our staff are, without doubt, our best asset and should all be proud of their contributions to the Kenyan hospitality industry and our position as a leader in the luxury segment. We are passionate about talent management and creating exciting career pathways for ambitious Kenyan hospitality professionals.” noted Mr. Richard Kimenyi, General Manager, Hemingways Nairobi.
Ross re-affirmed the brand’s commitment to its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, recognizing the vital role it plays in important eco-systems and wildlife habitats and its responsibilities to local community stakeholders.
“In 2023, we expect to contribute over Ksh55 million to our partners including Watamu Marine Association, community rugby both in Nairobi and Diani, Naboisho Conservancy, and the Maa Trust in the Masai Mara underscoring our dedication to critical social, health and education programs,”
Additionally, the brand has committed to investing in a 270Kwp solar PV system at Hemingways Nairobi in 2024, in addition to the existing PV installations at Hemingways Watamu and Hemingways Ol Seki.
“This investment will reduce our annual carbon footprint by 200 tonnes and greatly contribute to our sustainability goals,” Mr. Evans noted.