MÖVENPICK Hotels & Resorts took over management of the 407-room Sheraton Karachi on the city's prestigious Club Road on Jan.1. Rebranded the Mövenpick Hotel Karachi, the hotel is the first property in Pakistan to be managed by the upscale international hospitality company of Swiss heritage. Mövenpick presently operates 80 hotels, resorts and Nile cruisers in 25 countries across Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia. “From major celebrations to international events, this hotel has always played an important role in Karachi society and enjoys a special place in the hearts of many Pakistani people,” said Jean Gabriel Pérès, president and chief executive officer for Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts. “We are looking forward to building on this wonderful legacy with our international experience and unique Swiss sense of hospitality.” A major refurbishment of the hotel's lobby, restaurants and two guest room floors will be carried out by the company in 2014 and implemented to the Swiss high standards that are a hallmark of Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts. “This flagship hotel in Pakistan is an important asset for Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts and with the country's economy growing in excess of 3.5% in 2013, we believe Karachi offers great potential for us,” said Pérès. “The hotel will play a vital role in our expansion in South Asia and enhance the outbound market from Pakistan to our key destinations across the Middle East, Asia, Europe and Africa,” he added. Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts enjoys an enviable international reputation for quality, reliability and care with a personal touch. The company is also famous for its innovative approach to culinary excellence. “Swiss efficiency in service and first-class gastronomic excellence are embedded in the DNA of our company and we look forward to sharing our expertise with our guests at the Mövenpick Hotel Karachi,” Jean Gabriel Pérès further said. Sikander Mahmood, chief executive officer of Arabian Sea Enterprises Limited, the hotel's owning company, added: “We are very excited about our new association with Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts. We believe the company has the ideal international perspective to build on the goodwill and affection this landmark hotel has enjoyed for many years.” Just 17km from Jinnah International Airport, Mövenpick Hotel Karachi is located adjacent to the Chief Minister and close to the Governor's House, as well to the city's thriving business hub and upscale restaurant and retail districts. The hotel features convenient business facilities including 16 multi-purpose meeting rooms, in addition to the main Darbar Hall which can accommodate up to 1,000 delegates. Dining options include a traditional Pakistani outlet, a Lebanese and an Italian restaurant as well as the Fanoos Coffee Lounge. A heated outdoor pool, sauna, fitness center and a tennis court complete the recreational facilities of the property. — SG
