New owner for landmark Bay hotel

ONE of the longest established hotels in Zululand, The Richards, has been bought by independent South African hotel group, Premier Hotels & Resorts.

The group last week announced the Meerensee hotel, formerly marketed by Protea Hotels, will now be known as Premier Hotel The Richards.

It is Premier’s 14th 4 star hotel in SA.

‘We were first introduced to this hotel two years ago and concluded negotiations of break fees and price over the past four months,’ said Premier Managing Director Samuel Nassimov.

‘With the strength of our loyalty programme, coupled with the business market needs in the region, we see great potential for this property, especially within the conferencing and corporate sectors.’

The group will upgrade certain aspects of the hotel, including the conference facilities, which caters for up to 300 people.

‘This will be done while trading as normal with no disruption to guests at the hotel.’

Nassimov said the added bonus is the hotel’s position in northern KZN to attract both business people and holidaymakers.

‘It is conveniently situated for both South African and foreign visitors wanting to explore the unspoilt beaches and coastal conservation areas.

‘With Richards Bay being one of the fastest growing cities and industrial centres in SA, I see great possibilities for Premier Hotel The Richards.’