Hospitality
True luxury = comfort + elegance + exceptional service
Exclusive interview with Pantelis Leptos, Co-President Leptos Group of Companies
How does Leptos Calypso Hotels define luxury in the context of hospitality?
At Leptos Calypso Hotels, we define luxury not merely by the opulence of our surroundings but by the unique experiences we offer. Luxury, in our view, is about providing an environment where every detail has been meticulously curated to exceed guest expectations. It’s about personalizing every aspect of a guest’s stay, from the moment they walk through our doors to the time they leave. We believe true luxury is found in the seamless integration of comfort, elegance, and exceptional service that leaves a lasting impression.
How do you incorporate the essence of Mediterranean luxury into your hospitality offerings, and how might this appeal to discerning travelers from the UAE?
Mediterranean luxury is at the heart of everything we do at Leptos Calypso Hotels. It’s about capturing the region’s natural beauty, rich culture, and laid-back elegance. Our properties are designed to reflect the Mediterranean’s stunning landscapes, with architecture and interiors that evoke a sense of place. We use local materials, traditional craftsmanship, and regional flavors to create an authentic and immersive experience.
For travelers from the UAE, this approach resonates with their appreciation for both authenticity and refinement. The Mediterranean lifestyle is one of relaxation, indulgence, and understated sophistication, which aligns with the expectations of discerning guests from the UAE who seek not only comfort but a sense of connection to the destination.
Given your extensive experience in the hospitality industry, do you see any potential for Leptos Calypso Hotels to expand into the UAE market?
The UAE is a dynamic and growing market with a deep appreciation for luxury and hospitality. While our focus has traditionally been on the Mediterranean, we are always exploring opportunities to bring our unique approach to new markets. The UAE, with its cosmopolitan population and high standards for luxury, presents a compelling opportunity for us to extend the Leptos Calypso experience. We see potential in creating a fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern elements, offering a distinct luxury experience that could appeal to both local and international travelers in the UAE.
Considering your deep appreciation for ancient Greek history and Cyprus’ rich heritage, how do you integrate cultural elements into the luxury experience at your hotels?
Cyprus has a rich cultural tapestry, and we see it as our responsibility to share this heritage with our guests. At Leptos Calypso Hotels, we integrate cultural elements into every aspect of the guest experience. This includes architecture inspired by ancient Greek and Cypriot design, art collections featuring local artists, and culinary offerings that celebrate traditional Cypriot and Greek flavors. We also offer curated experiences that allow guests to explore the history and culture of Cyprus, from guided tours of ancient sites to workshops on local crafts. By doing so, we provide our guests with a deeper connection to the destination, enriching their stay with meaningful and memorable experiences.
How do you see your leadership philosophy influencing the growth and success of Leptos Calypso Hotels?
My leadership philosophy is grounded in a commitment to excellence, innovation, and respect for our heritage. I believe in leading by example, inspiring our team to embrace these values in everything they do. At Leptos Calypso Hotels, we foster a culture of continuous improvement, where every team member is encouraged to contribute ideas and solutions. This collaborative approach has been key to our growth and success, allowing us to adapt to changing market conditions while staying true to our core principles. By nurturing talent and promoting a shared vision, I believe we can continue to elevate our brand and deliver exceptional experiences to our guests.
In an increasingly competitive market, how do you measure and maintain guest satisfaction at Leptos Calypso Hotels?
Guest satisfaction is at the core of our operations, and we take a proactive approach to ensuring it. We measure satisfaction through a combination of direct guest feedback, online reviews, and detailed surveys. This data is analyzed regularly to identify areas for improvement and to recognize what we are doing well. However, maintaining guest satisfaction goes beyond metrics. It’s about creating a culture where every team member is committed to going above and beyond for our guests. We empower our staff to anticipate needs, resolve issues swiftly, and deliver personalized service. In a competitive market, this focus on guest satisfaction is what sets us apart and ensures our guests return year after year.
Is luxury defined by price or by experience?
Luxury is unequivocally defined by experience. While price can be a factor, true luxury is about the value that guests derive from their experience. It’s about creating moments that are priceless—whether it’s a stunning view, a perfect meal, or a gesture of kindness from our staff. At Leptos Calypso Hotels, we strive to offer experiences that resonate on a deeper level, leaving our guests with memories that last a lifetime. Luxury is about how our guests feel when they stay with us, and that feeling is something that money alone cannot buy.
We also find that a select few fall in love with life on the beautiful island of Cyprus and desire a more permanent presence, which we are well-equipped to support them with through our residential development arm, Leptos Estates. As the largest and most successful developer in Cyprus we offer a wide range of prime luxury villas, apartments and houses on full-service resorts or developments that offer a wide range of amenities and excellent security in envious locations. We also have an entire team in place to support with and manage residency and visa applications for those looking to spend more time on the island or enjoy wider access across the EU.
Features
The Role of Technology in Elevating Quality and Sustainability
By: Gautam Aggarwal, Managing Director of Gautam Rice
In today’s fast-evolving food and beverage (F&B) sector, the role of technology has moved beyond convenience to become a cornerstone for quality assurance, sustainability and operational efficiency.
Gautam Rice, the UAE’s most-consumed brand of basmati rice and the country’s largest importer of basmati rice – as well as a leading rice distributor across key regional markets – exemplifies how leveraging advanced technologies can elevate traditional practices and meet the shifting demands of modern consumers.
At the heart of our commitment to premium quality is the integration of cutting-edge technology in our rice milling and quality control processes.
One of the pivotal innovations is the use of SORTEX machines. Considered the gold standard in rice milling, SORTEX machines are equipped with advanced cameras and AI-driven systems to meticulously sort and remove impurities, discoloured grains and other unwanted particles.
This is achieved by using precise “air bullets” – ensuring each batch meets stringent quality standards. Additional quality control equipment such as moisture metres, whiteness testers and length graders help guarantee the consistency and integrity of each and every grain.
Quality isn’t just a standard – it’s a promise made possible through the smart integration of technology. This precision-driven approach ensures consumers receive the finest quality rice in every bag, reinforcing our commitment to excellence.
Sustainability through technological integration
Sustainability in the F&B sector is not just about green initiatives; it’s about embracing innovative solutions to reduce environmental footprints.
We’ve embedded sustainability into our core by incorporating solar power in our production facilities in India, significantly cutting down on carbon emissions.
Beyond energy, we’ve reimagined packaging processes with a focus on recyclability. By using recyclable materials and implementing a circular recycling programme, we’re able to collect and repurpose used rice bags for multiple industries, minimising waste and promoting eco-friendly practices.
This commitment to sustainability is a strategic initiative where technology plays a crucial role. With growing global concerns about the environment, we aim to set an example of how technology-driven sustainability can align with operational goals.
For many F&B companies, the challenge lies in finding the right balance between traditional practices and technological advancements. At Gautam Rice, we strike this balance. A key traditional practice we uphold is ageing rice for two years, for example. This ageing process, entirely natural and technology-free, enhances the aroma, flavour and texture of the rice, resulting in a premium product, perfected through time-honoured techniques.
While the ageing process remains deeply rooted in tradition, we also leverage data analytics and advanced sorting technologies to maintain consistency, quality and efficiency in other areas. This dual focus on tradition and technology enables us to preserve our legacy while innovating for the future.
Data analytics drive efficiency
The modern supply chain is a complex network, and in the competitive landscape of the F&B industry, having a robust system for demand forecasting and procurement planning is crucial. We’ve embraced data analytics to gain valuable insights into market trends and consumer behaviour. This data-driven approach enables us to optimise our distribution network and plan procurement in advance, reducing waste and ensuring product availability across markets like the UAE, Oman and KSA.
In a region characterised by dynamic market demands, proactive use of analytics not only drives efficiency but also fosters agility in meeting consumer needs.
Packaging is a vital component in maintaining product integrity, especially during long-distance shipments. We’ve made significant strides in packaging by adopting multi-layer food-grade solutions that provide superior protection against moisture and contamination. All packaging materials are food-controlled and certified for safety.
As with many other business areas, the global F&B sector is clearly undergoing a digital transformation to keep pace with changing consumer expectations and supply chain complexities. Our approach to digital transformation is comprehensive. By using data analytics, remote work setups and digital tools, we maintain seamless communication and operational efficiency. In an industry where adaptability is key, our investment in digital solutions enables us to stay agile and responsive to market dynamics.
The importance of technology in the F&B sector cannot be overstated. For companies like ours, leveraging technology is not just about staying competitive; it’s about elevating quality, ensuring sustainability and meeting the evolving expectations of consumers. By combining traditional practices with advanced technology, Gautam Rice has set a high standard in the industry – highlighting how technology can be harnessed to create a better, more sustainable future for all.
Features
The Role of Communication Technology in Transforming Hospitality: A GITEX 2024 Perspective
Sheena Philip, Managing Director Ben InfoTech, Fanvil
Hospitality has taken a quantum leap forward—not just in the form of plush hotel rooms or scenic vistas, but also in these hyper-connected times. It’s about crafting frictionless, tailored experiences for guests—from the reservation process to everything that follows—and communication technology is at the heart of this shift. This transformation was vividly highlighted at GITEX Global 2024 in Dubai, where the integration of digital tools into service standards was showcased. This evolution in hospitality, closely observed by Ben Info Tech, is not just about adopting new gadgets; it signifies a fundamental reshaping of operational practices and guest interaction paradigms.
The UAE, with its world-class hotels and forward-thinking tech vision, has emerged as a global hub for hospitality innovation. The theme of “Global Collaboration to Create the Future AI Economy” at the recently concluded GITEX Global 2024 provided the perfect platform to showcase how AI-driven communication tools are subtly yet fundamentally transforming guest interactions with hotels and resorts. This convergence of cutting-edge technology and guest services is not merely a trend—it’s a cultural shift
Intelligent Communication: Crafting Unforgettable Guest Journeys
The journey of enhancing guest experiences begins well before they set foot in the hotel, with communication technologies playing a pivotal role in setting the tone for their stay. From automated booking confirmations to personalized devices in guest rooms, every touchpoint is designed to forge an emotional connection, making the guest feel effortlessly looked after. The exposition at GITEX 2024 highlighted technologies that not only meet but exceed guest expectations through advanced IP phones and interactive touchpoints that allow guests to customize their stay with simple taps or voice commands. Such innovations enhance convenience and craft experiences that resonate on a personal level.
Take, for instance, advanced IP phones and interactive touchpoints that streamline guest services. Gone are the days of relying on a front desk call for basic requests. With these devices, guests can now control room settings, request room service, or even customize their stay, all with a few taps or voice commands. It is far beyond bells and whistles; these communication solutions place practicality first and foremost. They help staff manage personal preferences, anticipate needs, and respond to requests faster by integrating with hotel management software. Such differentiators are critical in a journey to stand out amidst a myriad of perfect hotel options in a city like Dubai where hotel standards are stratospherically high!
Operational Mastery: The Backbone of Hospitality Excellence
Beyond guest-facing technology, the real unsung heroes in this digital evolution are the systems working tirelessly behind the scenes. While a guest’s experience may revolve around convenience, comfort, and personalization, the hospitality industry runs on the efficiency of its operations. GITEX 2024 offered a glimpse into how internal communication is being transformed, elevating staff collaboration and response times.
Smart communication devices integrated with Property Management Systems (PMS) allow staff across various departments to coordinate with minimal disruption to guest services. These tools reduce manual errors and are critical in ensuring that luxury hotels in cities like Dubai can offer world-class service while maintaining high operational efficiency.
Security at the Forefront: Tech-Enabled Peace of Mind
In a city that welcomes millions of visitors each year, safety is paramount. Guests today expect their privacy and security to be seamlessly managed through technology, and communication tools play a crucial role in delivering this. The integration of communication devices with security systems, highlighted during the expo, offers a multi-layered defense, providing peace of mind to guests and staff alike. AI-based monitoring systems, which link real-time communication platforms with security management, are reshaping hotel security dynamics, allowing for prompt responses to any unusual activities. AI-based monitoring systems have also changed the dynamics of security in hotels by linking them with real-time communicating platforms. From tracking access points to managing emergency responds to unusual activities, these systems builds a solid security framework.
Looking Towards Tomorrow: Hospitality’s Next Tech Frontier
The transformation sparked by communication technology in hospitality is just the beginning. As showcased at GITEX 2024, the future holds even greater potential for integrated, AI-powered communication systems that not only anticipate guest needs but also optimize hotel operations to a degree we’re only beginning to imagine. As the industry looks ahead, companies like Ben Infotech are playing a pivotal role by offering devices that are both innovative and practical. Our range of hotel communication devices from Fanvil, for instance, exemplifies the kind of forward-thinking technology that is driving this transformation. These business-grade devices tailored for hospitality and hotel applications come with HD audio, LED programmable keys, and integrations with the Hotel Management System. From an IP phone in the guest room to a lobby intercom, the right communication device can revolutionize hotel operations and guest experiences. The commitment of Ben Info Tech to adopting these technologies ensures that their hospitality partners are not just keeping pace with technological advancements but are staying ahead of them. As the industry evolves, the focus remains on providing experiences that are not only seamless and secure but also uniquely tailored to the needs of guests and the operational demands of the hospitality sector.
As technology continues to propel the hospitality industry forward, Ben Info Tech’s contributions in embracing and implementing these innovations underscore its pivotal role in the sector’s ongoing transformation. As highlighted at GITEX 2024, the next wave of digital transformation in hospitality has arrived—centered around smarter, more connected communication. Hotels are not only meeting modern expectations by integrating innovations to enhance guest experiences, but also by leveraging these technologies for improved internal operations. With the UAE positioning itself as a key hub for both hospitality and technological advancements, communication and collaboration solutions will remain central to this evolution—delivering seamless, secure, and personalized experiences for both guests and staff.
Hospitality
Ralph Porciani Named CEO of JA Resorts & Hotels
JA Resorts & Hotels is pleased to announce the appointment of Ralph Porciani as its new Chief Executive Officer. With an illustrious hospitality career spanning over four decades, Ralph brings an extraordinary wealth of experience and a proven track record of leadership in luxury hotel brands. A third of his career was spent in central London’s finest hotels, followed by another pivotal 20 years at the renowned Trump Turnberry in Scotland, where he led the resort to achieve Forbes Five-Star accreditation, forming the next third of his journey.
Ralph’s passion for personalized service and customizing guest experiences was born from his Scottish-Italian roots, where he worked in his family’s fish restaurant business before moving to central London. It was here that he learned the importance of building meaningful bonds with both team members and guests.
Now in Dubai, this final third of his career marks the pinnacle of his journey. In his new role, Ralph will spearhead the continued growth and expansion of JA Resorts & Hotels, a homegrown brand with a rich legacy. His focus will be on nurturing talent and fostering innovation, enhancing guest engagement through strategic initiatives such as digital transformation and sustainability, and reinforcing the brand’s strong repeat business.
“We are delighted to welcome Ralph to JA Resorts & Hotels. His leadership and passion for hospitality make him the perfect fit to guide the brand through its next phase of growth,” said Nelson Gibb, Group Chief Executive Office of Dutco Group. “We look forward to seeing JA Resorts & Hotels flourish under his guidance while staying true to the values that have made it a beloved brand for so many years.”
Ralph Porciani expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I am delighted to join JA Resorts & Hotels, and I look forward to building upon its rich legacy, enhancing the guest experience, and fostering a culture of excellence among our team members.”
Ralph Porciani’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for JA Resorts & Hotels, as the brand looks to expand its footprint both regionally and internationally while delivering its signature true experiential hospitality.
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