Andre Jaques is Marketing Director at Langham Hotels Asia Pacific and is well known throughout the hotel sector as an expert on tourism trends. We had a quick chat with him to find out whether staycations post-Covid are still a thing. With a bit marketing nous, not only are staycations here to stay, they are becoming a necessary addition to hotels offering. Here’s what he had to say:
Q: The Langham is an iconic luxury hotel brand. How does the domesticity and cosiness of a bear (and brand) like Paddington fit with the Langham?
A: Paddington Bear is iconic and a natural fit for our hotel group, we have had a long association with bespoke teddy bears, our guests have had a love affair for Langham teddy bears for many years.
Q: How have families responded to the Paddington promotion – what have been some highlights in the feedback?
A: Extremely well, not just families but guests of all ages have embraced the Paddington partnership.
Q: Has Paddington been “out- Barbied” or has the innocent well-meaning bear come out on top?
A: The Paddington partnership with Langham Hotels and Resorts goes through until December, 2024, the global partnership has been extremely successful and targets a wider demographic than Barbie, both have proven to be very popular for both Paddington and Barbie.
Q: The details in exquisite inclusions such as Paddington bathrobes and slippers, give the staycation the edge over other local offerings. Whose idea was it to provide these extra touches?
A: The components of the Paddington partnership was arranged via our head office and also includes Paddington take home items that can be purchased from each hotel.
Q: Do you think staycations are here to well, stay?
Yes, the demand for staycations has remained strong since coming out of the Pandemic, couples and families wish to still have a staycation experience in their own city without travelling afar and are wanting unique experiences, staycations are here to stay.
Q: What other ideas are percolating for upcoming promotions – can you give us a hint?
A: Stay tuned, a number of concepts are in the pipeline for 2024.
