StayWell Holdings, a subsidiary of Prince Hotels Inc. which is one of Japan’s leading hotel and leisure companies, has announced its first property under The Prince Akatoki brand, with the acquisition of The Arch London, which will undergo a refurbishment, rebrand and repositioning in 2019.
The Prince Akatoki is a new brand reflecting visual elements synonymous with Japan, and signature experiences that are unique to Japanese hospitality.
Situated in the beating heart of London, in the chic residential area of Marylebone, the multi-award-winning hotel is positioned in a superb location for guests to enjoy everything this buzzing tourist destination has to offer – from a walk-through Hyde Park to a show in West End and shopping in London’s most acclaimed fashion districts.
The Prince Akatoki in London will showcase the meeting of English heritage and global connectivity with the unique sophistication and hospitality of Japanese culture.
Masahiko Koyama, President of Prince Hotels, Inc. said, “We are honoured to announce that our first overseas luxury brand, The Prince Akatoki will be opening in the world’s leading city, London. We are very thankful for being able to come across The Arch London, a well-known hotel loved by guests.
'Together with StayWell, we will strive to deliver the Japanese culture and hospitality through The Prince Akatoki brand to the world. Through this, we will endeavour to transform Prince Hotels from a Japanese chain into a global chain.”
Simon Wan, President and Director of StayWell Holdings Pty Ltd said the demand for luxury hotel accommodation in London, particularly Marylebone and Marble Arch area, remains unparalleled, making the opportunity to acquire The Arch Hotel one that the Group had to seize.
He continued, “Demand in the London hotel market is strong and resilient, however with a shortage of supply, and existing properties being tightly held, it is increasingly difficult for new brands to penetrate the market.
“Based on the stable historical returns of the property and its recognised excellence in outstanding customer service, alongside the brand promise of The Prince Akatoki, I am confident this hotel will be a welcome addition to the vibrant neighbourhood it will reside in.”
The Prince Akatoki in London will see travellers experience luxury services and amenities that reflect key elements of the unique, refined Japanese hospitality and culture – all while visiting one of the busiest cities in the world.
Wan said, “Our vision is to bring an authentic, luxurious experience to people when they are travelling to international destinations outside of Japan.
“Key to this is the importance placed on mindfulness, service, tranquillity and a peerless aesthetic. This is precisely what The Prince Akatoki brand will deliver, starting with this first property in London.”
This year alone, The Arch London’s luxury hotel offering and excellence in customer service has been recognised by a suite of awards including:
Winner – Best Loved Hotels Best Hotel in London 2017-18
Finalist – Conde Nast Johansens Annual Awards for Excellence Best Urban Hotel 2018
Finalist – AA Hospitality Awards Customers’ Choice Award 2018-19
These milestone announcements add weight to the already impressive portfolio of brands operating under Prince Hotels Inc. and StayWell Holdings with the Group accelerating its inbound strategy and global development that StayWell has been practicing.