Earthworks and construction on Club Med’s South African debut, the R2,2 billion development at Tinley Manor, KwaZulu Natal, will start early next year.
During a visit to South Africa by Anne Browaeys, CEO of Europe and Africa for the group, Browaeys and Olivier Perillat-Piratoine, MD of Club Med SA, spoke of the success of the brand in the South African market, where sales are 51% over 2022 levels.
Club Med has five strategic pillars in its mission to build what it terms “the most desirable holiday lifestyle brand”, and create unparalleled experiences that put their guests at ease by providing them with l’Esprit Libre, or free-spiritedness – no matter where in the world they are.
Upscale with Club Med spirit – Club Med was the first to enter the all-inclusive upscale holiday market. As a specialist in the all-inclusive experience, it now focuses its energies on opening upscale properties only – Club Med’s Exclusive Collection – an even more desirable holiday experience, with a high-level all-inclusive package. Club Med Tinley will have an exclusive space that will fall under Exclusive Collection.
Hospitality employer of choice – Club Med employs 20 000 people from 110 nations globally and is generating a growing number of opportunities for its Gentle Organisers (GOs) and Gentle Employees (GEs). Getting a job with Club Med can be life-changing as the employees get opportunities to work in every corner of the globe. Across all properties, the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff are a feature that adds to the client’s holiday experience. The KZN property is expected to generate 800 direct and 1 500 indirect jobs.
Global footprint – Club Med looks to local and regional markets as well as global clientele. It prides itself on capturing the unique essence of each of its destinations to provide guests with a world-class hospitality experience that is authentic and celebrates local culture.
Happy digital – From payment to access, Club Med is embracing various technologies, including RFID and wearables, with a wristband that simplifies aspects such as area access and payments.
Happy to care – Building a flourishing community is at the heart of what Club Med aims to do within each of its destinations. This extends to job creation and social upliftment schemes in addition to greener environmental practices such as water and energy conservation and waste management.
With Club Med Tinley scheduled for completion in July 2026, the local travel industry can look forward to marketing this upmarket resort to their clients. Many will be delighted by the fact that they can sample this international-style experience without an international flight or visa hassles.
