Questex's IHIF Asia: Pioneering Future Hospitality Investments in Hong Kong SAR

Questex concluded its International Hospitality Investment Forum (IHIF) Asia, returning to Hong Kong SAR with 500 delegates from 27 countries. Industry leaders discussed hospitality's resilience post-COVID-19 and its potential growth. Key insights included geographical expansion, investment strategies, and the sector’s role as a hedge against inflation.

Questex successfully wrapped up its International Hospitality Investment Forum (IHIF) Asia, marking a pivotal return to Hong Kong SAR and demonstrating its long-term commitment to the region. The forum saw participation from 500 delegates across 27 countries and 185 hotel investors managing over US$216 billion in hotel investments.

Industry leaders delved into the hospitality sector's resilience, rebounding from the impacts of COVID-19 to exhibit rapid recovery and growth potential. Prominent speakers, including Kenneth Gaw from Gaw Capital Partners and Dr. Sabine Schaffer of Pro-invest Group, discussed how hospitality serves as a hedge against inflation and highlighted the sector's promising future driven by the expanding Asian middle class. Markets such as Japan, Southeast Asia, and Hong Kong SAR were pinpointed for their long-term investment potential.

The forum also focused on operational strategies and the significance of in-house management to mitigate risks. Experts from Nina Hospitality, Ares Management Corporation, and Pro-invest Group shared their approaches to enhancing value through capital expenditures, business adjustments, and development capabilities. Sunset Hospitality Group's recent acquisition of a majority stake in Maximal Concepts showcased the dynamic growth and investment opportunities within the hospitality industry.

Alexi Khajavi, Group President of Hospitality, Travel, and Wellness at Questex, emphasized the company's decade-long commitment to Asia, reinforcing the region's strategic importance in global hospitality investments. The event agenda addressed vital factors shaping hospitality and tourism investment, underscoring Questex's role in advancing the industry's evolution and growth across Asia.

(With inputs from agencies.)