The Parktonian, formerly run by Protea Hotels, has been under the management of ANEW Hotels & Resorts since November 2021. The building is an icon in Braamfontein, and has a long history of dual purposes, originally serving as staff accommodation for Anglo American. It was converted to a hotel about 20 years ago, and has since undergone several renovations and structural changes.
"When ANEW Hotels & Resorts heard about the opportunity to manage this historic hotel, we immediately put ourselves up to the task, as this would be the largest hotel in our growing portfolio – it offers 300 rooms and conferencing and event facilities for up to 400 people," said Corné Visser, Group Marketing Manager for ANEW. "The hotel is in really great condition considering its age, and is an excellent location to service the entire greater Joburg business node. We're excited to establish ANEW Hotel Parktonian as a destination for local and international tourists, with plans to make improvements to the SkyLevel and restaurant."
ANEW CEO Clinton Armour said the hotel has incredible potential. "The rooftop bar on the 25th floor and heated rim-flow pool are magnificent, while other unique selling points set this hotel apart from its competitors." He added that as more and more travellers are embracing "bleisure" (business + leisure) travel, ANEW is investing in new technology to ensure that its guests are able to stay connected to both their work and their loved ones during their travels.
South Africa's hotels were impacted heavily by the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021, but Visser said: "Throughout the entire lockdown period, we did not close one single hotel. Even if it meant we were open and serving only one nurse, doctor and self-isolating guest, our team remained dedicated to providing our staff with employment during the time." ANEW's Operations Director Kevin Burley added: "We had accountants cleaning hotel rooms, waiters making beds, and receptionists helping with room service. With a smaller staff complement, everyone banded together to get things done. There was a real spirit of working together."
ANEW Hotels & Resorts continues to grow, and now has an impressive portfolio of 15 properties. It recently recruited several highly skilled hoteliers and managers to join its team and help to turn it into one of SA's leading hotel groups. Its future vision is to establish a decent footprint across SA, acquiring properties in all nine provinces.
Safety and security are paramount in Braamfontein. "It's great so see that an effort has already been made in this regard, with security officers walking the streets and stationed strategically at points across the neighbourhood," said Visser. "The ever-growing arts and entertainment scene has certainly kicked off in this eclectic area, and we welcome all visitors. We anticipate an influx in international business, as 2023 is the first year with zero COVID-19 restrictions in place."
