Premier tunes in to groups market

OVER the past 12 months Premier has refined its offering to better meet the requirements of corporate groups, incentive travellers, event planners and leisure groups. This includes the development of more inclusive packages, simplified group enquiry processes and tailored experiences that combine accommodation, dining, conferencing and destination-based activities. Wayne Neath, Commercial Director for Premier Hotels, & Resorts told Travel News that a major trend within the market was the move away from standardised packages towards personalised, experience-driven programmes. “Clients increasingly want flexibility, stronger value, local activities and itineraries that offer a genuine sense of place,” he says. Premier Hotels & Resorts is responding to this with a new collection of curated corporate, leisure, group and incentive experiences that will be unveiled in August. “Designed to simplify planning while adding greater value and a stronger sense of occasion, the launch will introduce fresh destination-led packages, distinctive inclusions and new incentive opportunities. More will be revealed in the weeks ahead,” says Neath. Drakensberg Premier’s resort portfolio is particularly well suited to groups looking for an itinerary that extends beyond the traditional conference or hotel stay. Premier Resort Sani Pass at the foot of the Southern Drakensberg provides an ideal setting for executive retreats, incentive trips, team-building events and outdoor-focused group travel. Its mountain setting creates opportunities for 4x4 excursions up Sani Pass, hiking, nature experiences, golf, wellness activities and visits to nearby attractions. “The property is especially appealing to groups wishing to combine structured business sessions with adventure and meaningful team engagement,” says Neath. Garden Route Premier Resort The Moorings in Knysna offers a relaxed Garden Route setting on the banks of the Knysna Lagoon. The resort is well positioned for incentive groups, leisure extensions, executive breakaways and touring itineraries. Experiences can include lagoon cruises, visits to the Knysna Heads, forest excursions, golf, dining experiences and explorations of the wider Garden Route. KZN South Coast Premier Resort Cutty Sark in Scottburgh on the KZN South Coast is well suited to incentive groups, sports tours, family groups and informal corporate retreats. In addition to beach activities, golf and team-building programmes, the resort provides access to the internationally renowned Aliwal Shoal diving area. Diving and ocean-based experiences can be incorporated into incentive itineraries for experienced divers and groups seeking introductory marine adventures. This adds a distinctive experiential element to the destination and creates opportunities for memorable team and incentive travel. “Whether it’s the mountains, the Garden Route or the coast, Premier’s resort portfolio allows planners to create group and incentive journeys that are productive, rewarding and memorable,” says Neath.