FOCUS Winter 2019/2020 issue

P L A Z A P R E M I U M G R O U P. C O M

WINTER 2019/2020

RE-INVENTING AIRPORT HOSPITALITY IN HONG KONG

A SNEAK PEEK INTO HKIA’S AIRPORT CITY

VIVIAN CHEUNG, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, AIRPORT OPERATIONS FOR AIRPORT AUTHORITY HONG KONG SHARES INSIGHTS AND NEW DEVELOPMENT PLANS LANDING DUBAI

PLAZA PREMIUM LOUNGE DUBAI PRESENTS NEW EXPERIENCES TO GLOBAL TRAVELLERS

1

HIGHLIGHTS 170+

46

LOCATIONS

INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTS

23

COUNTRIES & REGIONS

Mena Whabaa Supervisor of Allways meet & greet DFW celebrates with award

OUR GLOBAL NETWORK

World’s Best Independent Airport Lounge for Four Years in a Row

LEVEL WITH THE ARRIVAL OF AIRPORT CITY Plaza Premium Group introduces two new lounges in Hong Kong, 20 years and beyond the Group continues to shape global airport hospitality by pioneering new concepts in its home base.

15 NEW OPENINGS TO CELEBRATE With rapid expansion around the world, Plaza Premium Group Founder & CEO Song Hoi-see joins his local teams for opening ceremonies, press days and events at Plaza Premium Lounge in Helsinki and Dubai as well as Aerotel in London and Beijing.

19 AWARD WINNING AIRPORT HOSPITALITY The award winning streak continues with our global teams from outstanding dining concepts, convenient transit hotels and taking service to the next level with airport meet and greet.

Wedding at Plaza Premium Lounge Rio de Janeiro

First class cabin seat at Plaza Premium Lounge Dubai

04 TAKING AIRPORT HOSPITALITY TO THE NEXT

A SNEAK PEEK INTO THE FUTURE OF HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Vivian Cheung, Executive Director, Airport Operations for Airport Authority Hong Kong shares new development plans and what it takes to create a global leading airport experience.

09 14

Hong Kong International Airport

PLAZA PREMIUM LOUNGE LANDS DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT The new Dubai lounge brings in new experiences such as Family Suites, an innovative Playroom and in-flight style relaxation seats for the international traveller.

21 BRINGING IN SUPPORT TO AUSTRALIA

10

We look forward to hearing from you!

The team at Plaza Premium Group Australia shows appreciation and support to Canadian firefighting crew at the Sky Team Lounge in Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport.

Business Development businessdevelopment@plaza-network.com

Corporate Communications and Media Enquiries pr@plaza-network.com

INSIDER AIRPORT TIPS Our teams from across the globe share smart and quirky travel tips to making the airport journey more worthwhile.

22

ELITE PASS AT PLAZA PREMIUM FIRST HONG KONG Offering an elevated travel experience deal for five visits plus an additional complimentary visit, even valid for travel companions.

Follow us on social media:

Sales & Reservations sales@plaza-network.com

3

FEATURE Dining area featuring aerial shot of Hong Kong at the new Plaza Premium Lounge Hong Kong by Gate 35

4

FEATURE

AIRPORT CITY ARRIVAL HERALDS A NEW CHAPTER IN AIRPORT HOSPITALITY AT HKIA As Plaza Premium Group opens two stunning new lounges at Hong Kong International Airport, we look at how the company has shaped the travel experience at one of Asia’s most important aviation gateways.

Text by Nicholas Walton

W

hen Plaza Premium Lounge opened its first venue at HKIA in 1998, few could have imagined how the company would define the travel experience and drive the airport hospitality scene in the years to come. Today, Plaza Premium Group operates in over 170 locations in 46 international airports around the world, serving 16 million travellers annually, and has branched out into in-terminal airport hotels, meet-and-greet services and insightful dining concepts. But it has always been Hong Kong, where the Group is based and where it has just opened two new lounges, complementing its four existing venues, that has inspired this dramatic global growth.

Today, all eyes are on HKIA as it prepares for the next chapter in its development. This includes the addition of a third runway, the application of pioneering technology that helps guide travellers and airport authority alike, and the creation of SKYCITY, a 25-hectare commercial project that will combine retail with hotels, dining areas and entertainment facilities. In conjunction with the concepts of Plaza Premium Group, these new developments will further cement HKIA as a destination in its own right.

“With the continuous development of passenger and cargo services, the expansion of cross-boundary multimodal transport networks, and the growth of commercial and other facilities around the airport, Hong Kong International Airport is transforming from a city airport to an Airport City,” says Vivian Cheung, Executive Director of Airport Operations for the Airport Authority of Hong Kong. When it [SKYCITY] is completed between 2023-2027, HKIA will be poised to become a lifestyle and entertainment hub for both local residents and overseas visitors.”

Walkway at Plaza Premium First Hong Kong

Home Turf Evolution Plaza Premium Group’s history at HKIA is punctuated with innovation and industry firsts such as insightful collaborations, the creation of the world’s first ‘first class’ independent lounge brand, and dining concepts like Root98 that pioneered a healthy new approach to airport dining.

“Hong Kong has always been our home and while we expand globally, it is always here in Hong Kong where we develop new concepts and collaborations,” says Song Hoi-see, Founder & CEO of Plaza Premium Group. “Hong Kong is one of the world’s greatest aviation hubs and we have always been proud to be a Hong Kong company at the forefront of the airport hospitality scene. By enhancing the travel experience through our lounges and our dining outlets through table service, a la carte menus, wellness concepts, creative brand collaborations, artistic engagement, and the application of intuitive technology, Plaza Premium Group continues to chart the course for the airport hospitality as a whole.”

5

FEATURE

Chef’s Corner at Plaza Premium Lounge by Gate 60

Lounges for Every Traveller Despite its many ground-breaking brands, Plaza Premium Group is best known for its airport lounges, refined yet accessible pay-in spaces that democratised travel by allowing travellers on any airline and in any class the chance to enjoy hospitality before their flight. Plaza Premium Lounge’s first venue opened in 1998 at HKIA’s West Hall and represented a significant departure from the invitation-only airline lounges of the time. The Hong Kong lounge was soon followed by Plaza Premium Lounge Kuala Lumpur and, in 2002, the first Plaza Premium Lounge at Singapore’s Changi Airport.

It wasn’t long until the group looked beyond Asia, opening Plaza Premium Lounge Vancouver in 2004, but it was always at busy Hong Kong International Airport where the company innovated.

Airlines quickly picked up on the group’s potential as an airport hospitality partner and in 2005 Plaza Premium Group launched its lounge management service, taking over the reigns at the Thai Airways Royal Orchid Lounge.

Dining area at Plaza Premium Lounge Hong Kong by Gate 60

6

The Group’s newest development sees new lounges open at HKIA, each with a different vibe.

Plaza Premium Lounge Hong Kong Gate 60 caters to 154 guests and features a relaxation zone, a dining and café area, a dedicated AeroBar serving a wide range of refreshing beverages, and standing workstations for busy road warriors. The lounge also partners with Italian brand Lavazza to offer a unique in-lounge specialty coffee experience, which introduces the finest Italian coffee and coffeeinspired desserts, and a ‘Chef’s Special’ corner that serves up gourmet crepes and wraps.

In contrast, Plaza Premium Lounge Hong Kong Gate 35 caters to 109 guests and offers stunning apron views through its floor-to-ceiling windows.

The space offers travellers access to selfservice refreshments, a range of seating options, complimentary high-speed internet, nine wellappointed shower cabins, and a selection of iconic Hong Kong bites, from Satay Beef Instant Noodles to Scrambled Egg Sandwiches.

“We are delighted to present two beautifully-built independent airport lounges in Hong Kong,” says

FEATURE

Lounge Bay at Plaza Premium Lounge Hong Kong by Gate 35

Lavazza Cold Brew Coffee at Plaza Premium Lounge by Gate 60

Seamless dining experience with mobile ordering app

HONG KONG HAS ALWAYS BEEN OUR HOME AND WHILE WE EXPAND GLOBALLY, IT IS ALWAYS HERE IN HONG KONG WHERE WE DEVELOP NEW CONCEPTS AND COLLABORATIONS. Song Hoi-see. “More than just airport lounges, we created in-lounge specialty experiences to complement our existing Plaza Premium Lounge and Plaza Premium First at the airport and we will continue to surprise guests with a new generation of independent airport lounge, starting from our hometown Hong Kong, to become the must-see ‘destination’ at airports.”

A Luxury Alternative to Airline Lounges Over the years Plaza Premium Group has not only perfected the pay-in lounge concept, focusing on inspired design and décor that places emphasis on the usability of the spaces, but has also branched out with the luxurious Plaza Premium First concept to coincide with the Group’s 20th anniversary.

Plaza Premium First takes the independent lounge concept to new levels, with a curated airport lounge experience for premium travellers. The new lounge concept caters to the needs of international airlines, financial institutions and corporations looking to provide value-adding hospitality to their affluent customers.

Dressed in soothing tones, Plaza Premium First lounges enhance the pay-in lounge concept with dedicated Lounge Ambassadors who greet arriving guests, a la carte menus in Primo, a signature dining spot, premium food and beverage offerings, and even wellness treatments that help prepare travellers for their onward journey.

7

FEATURE

Choosing the Right Partners A major component of Plaza Premium Group’s expansion at HKIA has been through creative collaborations that deliver travellers an enhanced travel experience that transcends conventional lounge access while also offering guests a global experience. These partnerships include a range of teas with acclaimed tea merchants TWG; luxurious skincare amenities by Elemis; the use of Beyond Meat products by Green Monday, a first for any Asia airport lounge; refined Italian Lavazza coffee; and regular art exhibitions, including a recent showcase of chinese talents conducted in conjunction with Beijing Poly Art. Food for Thought However, Plaza Premium Group’s hospitality isn’t limited to its lounges. The Group continues to innovate the HKIA travel experience through some of HKIA’s most innovative airport dining outlets, concepts that promote healthy, sustainable eating as a fundamental component of travel. Travellers can grab healthy smoothies, wraps and salads at Root98 Grab ‘n’ Go, gourmet Cantonese cuisine at The Terrace, and premium whiskies, beers and champagnes at the elegant Moon Bar, both located at the World Trade Centre Club.

Say hello to a more rewarding way of travel! Smart Traveller, a new Global Airport Rewards programme by Plaza Premium Group, for travellers to earn and burn points when using any services under the Group.

Scan to download

Cafe at Plaza Premium Lounge by Gate 60

Root98 Grab ‘n’ Go Hong Kong at Arrivals

Signature poached sliced beef in hot chili oil at The Terrace

Signature dishes at Plaza Premium Lounge by Gate 60

8

EXPERIENCE

Allways Meet & Greet at Toronto Pearson International Airport

Leonardo da Vinci International Airport

1

2

4

3

Wedding at Plaza Premium Lounge Rio de Janeiro

Beef Cheek at Plaza Premium First Kuala Lumpur

TRAVEL SMART OUR TEAMS AT PLAZA PREMIUM GROUP SHARE SOME SMART AND QUIRKY TRAVEL TIPS THAT JUST MIGHT COME IN HANDY TO MAKE YOUR AIRPORT EXPERIENCE BETTER.

1. “Avoid long lines at security check by pre-ordering a fast track ticket the day before your flight. Otherwise choose the left lane, it’s usually the fastest!”

Analia Marinoff, General Manager of Plaza Premium Lounge Rome 2. “In Toronto we love to welcome our guests and show them how to travel in style! Our Allways team helps travellers navigate their way from gate to curb or curb to gate or even gate to gate with peace of mind, a friendly hand and a smile along the way. The perfect solution, even for corporate trips.”

David Zaltzman, Regional Director of Operations Canada

3. “Did you know that one in every 50 travellers find the love of their life while on a flight? What I love most is to be able to be a part of incredibly romantic and spontaneous love stories at our lounge, where we help plan weddings, renewed wedding vows, pre-honeymoon experiences and more.”

Marcia Peixoto, Sales & Marketing Manager of Plaza Premium Group Rio de Janeiro 4. “Go to the airport early when you’re flying out of KLIA as there are a great variety of food choices. Whether you are looking for a last minute laksa fix or something comforting like fish and chips, Flight Club has a great a la carte menu. One of my favourite dishes is the award-winning Beef Cheek at Plaza Premium First, definitely something I recommend pre-flight!”

Chef Haward Lee, Executive Chef, Plaza Premium Group, South East Asia 9

VIEW FROM THE TOP

GATEWAY TO THE FUTURE As Executive Director, Airport Operations for Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), Vivian Cheung is helping to drive the growth and evolution of one of Asia’s busiest aviation hubs. She discusses new developments, the integration of new technology, and the importance of world-class dining and lounges as part of today’s leading airport experience.

Vivian Cheung, Executive Director, Airport Operations for Airport Authority Hong Kong

Airports around the world are increasingly becoming destinations in their own right; what kind of destination is HKIA and how is it evolving?

With the continuous development of passenger and cargo services, the expansion of cross-boundary multimodal transport network, and the growth of commercial and other facilities around the airport, Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) is transforming from a city airport to an Airport City.

To this end, HKIA is undergoing a series of revamp projects to upgrade its terminals with a fresh, modern new look and to provide passengers with additional facilities that better suit their needs. For example, the recently opened Terminal 1 Extension gives a more spacious environment and adds new check-in facilities. We are also redesigning the boarding gate areas into vibrant themed zones, and the East Hall in the restricted area is being expanded to accommodate a two-storey children’s play area, a dedicated entertainment zone, and an openair green garden. A new footbridge, Sky Bridge, connecting Terminal 1 and the North Satellite

10

Concourse is currently under construction and will serve as a vantage point to enjoy the stunning view of our airport, including the construction of the third runway, which will be completed in 2024.

Finally, we are building SKYCITY, a 25-hectare world-class commercial development right next to the airport that comprises a range of retail, dining, entertainment facilities, as well as hotels and offices. When it is completed between 2023 and 2027, HKIA will be poised to become a lifestyle and entertainment hub for both local residents and overseas visitors.

How important is the airport’s shopping and dining scene to contemporary travellers?

Shopping and dining are essential in the overall airport experience, and we strive to make a difference. In addition to continuously diversifying our retail mix, we have focused on meeting passengers’ need for a more hassle-free and personalised shopping experience. The airport’s duty-free shops feature new retail concepts such as an interactive make-up corner and a digital bar for complimentary cocktail-tasting. We have also introduced an online airport retail platform, HKairportShop.com, which carries airport-only products and provides free delivery service to a number of destinations, while shopping ambassadors give passengers personalised recommendations and help them create customised shopping and dining itineraries. Hong Kong is a food heaven and HKIA is also famous for its culinary choices.

VIEW FROM THE TOP

Tarmac View at Plaza Premium Lounge Hong Kong by Gate 35

THE LUXURY AND COMFORT OFFERED BY LOUNGES HELP HKIA FURTHER ELEVATE THE PASSENGER EXPERIENCE. We have many Michelin-recommended restaurants and a wide array of international cuisines available, while the East Hall food court operates around the clock, serving the increasing number of red-eye flight passengers.

HKIA also has some captivating lounges, including some of the region’s best pay-in spaces, operated by Plaza Premium Group. How are these lounges changing the airport experience and the way travellers perceive time spent at the airport?

The luxury and comfort offered by lounges help HKIA further elevate the passenger experience, which is particularly important for airlines’ premium customers and business travellers. Lounges like Plaza Premium First are not only where travellers can catch up on their work, but also take some time out from their packed schedule to unwind with a shower or to enjoy a delicious meal. The recently opened lounges by Gate 35 and Gate 60 also offer views of the tarmac and new experiences made for all kinds of travellers. Outstanding shopping and

dining, as well as this lounge experience, help shape HKIA from an intermediate stop in passengers’ itinerary into a memorable part of their journeys.

Travellers are connected more than ever before; what technology initiatives will we experience at HKIA? Aviation development will be very much shaped by technology, as well as demand for seamless, personalised services. HKIA has been using and developing various technologies with the aim of providing passengers with a pleasant travel journey from the kerbside to boarding gates, or even before they set foot in the airport. Passengers can now use self-service facilities to complete the entire check-in process at HKIA, while biometric scanners employing facial recognition technology are deployed at checkpoints to verify identity, increasing our security and efficiency.

Very soon, single token travel from check-in to boarding will be introduced. Biometric technology will be used to capture the digital identity (or token) of the majority of passengers at the first point of identity

11

VIEW FROM THE TOP

or document verification so they can walk straight through different checkpoints afterwards without having to show travel documents again.

Our free mobile app, HKG My Flight, helps guide passengers throughout their journey at HKIA by providing real-time flight information and boarding alerts, indoor wayfinding aids with augmented reality, airport parking booking, and even in-app translation of airport signage. When the app is paired with MyTAG, the smart luggage tag developed by AAHK, it will notify arriving passengers when their baggage is ready to be collected at the baggage reclaim.

Leveraging big data analysis to gain deeper understanding of travellers’ needs, preferences and behaviours, we are able to create tailored commercial experiences to meet customers’ changing needs while, behind the scenes, more extensive use of automation, artificial intelligence, data analysis and the 5G network will also help bring our services and facilities to the next level.

HKIA has been listed again in the Skytrax World’s Best Airport’s top 10 list; give us three key attributes that make the airport one of the world’s best.

The first would be extensive worldwide connectivity. Sitting at the centre of Asia, Hong Kong enjoys an enviable geographical location within a five hours’ flight of half of the world’s population. Through continuous expansion of our flight network, today one can fly directly to 220 destinations with about 120 airlines from HKIA. This extensive network, coupled with a busy flight schedule of over 1,100 takeoffs and landings each day, offers passengers great travel convenience. We have

also taken our advantage of being at the heart of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area and developed excellent connections to the region with an intricate network of cross-boundary, multimodal sea and land transport.

The second reason would be the shopping and dining. As you mentioned, HKIA’s exceptional dining offerings have been recognised by Skytrax for delivering the “World’s Best Airport Dining Experience” 10 times, and in 2019, AAHK also claimed the “Airport Operator of the Year” award at the prestigious DFNI Frontier Awards after beating out a strong field of competing airport operators worldwide. The third reason would be efficiency.

Latest technology is used to maximise operational efficiency and bring a pleasant and hassle-free airport experience for passengers and to this end, HKIA has received the “Top Asian Airport Efficiency Excellence Award” from the Air Transport Research Society nine times.

Travellers relaxing at Terminal 1 at Hong Kong International Airport

12

VIEW FROM THE TOP

Sunrise at Hong Kong International Airport

Sky Bridge at Hong Kong International Airport

13

NEW OPENINGS

Lounge area at Plaza Premium Lounge Dubai

PPG EXPANDS MIDDLE EAST NETWORK WITH NEW DUBAI LOUNGE

P

laza Premium Group has expanded its Middle East network with the opening of its exciting new Plaza Premium Lounge Dubai, a 1,260sqm space catering to 300 guests and located within Terminal 3, overlooking departure gates A2 and A3.

In addition to captivating décor, which includes a reception backdrop portraying Dubai’s city skyline and design accents that mimic the movement of desert sands in the wind, the new lounge features five shower rooms, a cigar room, signature honeycomb work stations, and a series of unique single-person inflight cabin-styled relaxation seats, which boast sliding doors to ensure ultimate privacy.

A place to relax, recharge and ready yourself for the onward journey, the new Dubai lounge caters to all types of travellers. It is the only airport lounge in Dubai to offer four dedicated Family Suites. Each of

these inviting 10sqm spaces caters to the needs of big families or small groups travelling together and is complemented by a team of multi-lingual butlers who speak Arabic, Russian, Hindi, Tagalog and Turkish. Travellers opting for the Family Suite will also enjoy Arabic coffee and dates, and welcome drinks, while children will also have access to an innovative Playroom, the only dedicated kids’ zone at the terminal, which features educational and sustainably-made toys by international toy brand Masterkidz. Other family friendly amenities include a dedicated Playroom decorated with colourful murals of camels, palm trees and iconic buildings in Dubai, specially created kid’s and infant’s menus, and male and female prayer rooms.

Foodies should leave time to enjoy the lounge’s delicious ‘glocal’ cuisine, Arabic, Asian and International dishes made fresh in live cooking stations using locally sourced ingredients, while the lounge’s AeroBar serves a wide range of cocktails, mocktails and luxury spirits, which can even be enjoyed in a dedicated cigar lounge. Travellers looking to refresh can do so in one of five shower suites.

Dubai lounge is the sixth Plaza Premium Lounge in the Middle East, joining existing locations in Abu Dhabi, Dammam, Riyadh and Salalah.

NEW MEET & GREET SERVICES IN CEBU

Arrivial greetings at boarding gate form Allways Cebu

14

Plaza Premium Group has expanded its Allways Meet & Greet services in the Philippine’s most popular island, offering travellers seamless, attentive service at every point of their journey. Arriving guests can enjoy a one-on-one welcome in Cebu, with a service representative waiting for them at the arrival gate, guidance through immigration, and an escort on to their transport pickup spot.

For travellers transiting Mactan Cebu International Airport, the transit service welcomes travellers with their name on a signboard, with service staff helping them through immigration, where applicable, bag re-check, and on to either their boarding gate or an airport lounge. The departure package is equally seamless and guides departing travellers through check-in, security and immigration, before escorting them to an airline lounge or their boarding gate.

NEW OPENINGS

Song Hoi-see hosting media group at Aerotel Beijing press day

Song Hoi-see and Tommy Clarke, renowned aerial photographer at Aerotel London Heathrow opening event

Team from Aerotel London Heathrow and Plaza Premium Lounge Heathrow

Aerotel London Heathrow team at opening event

CAUSE FOR T CELEBRATION Plaza Premium Group continues to expand its global network, with a series of exciting events coinciding with the Group’s newest openings.

he team at the new Aerotel Beijing recently hosted a press day.

The flagship Aerotel property, located at the new Beijing Daxing International Airport, welcomed local media to experience the next generation of airport hospitality. Plaza Premium Group Founder & CEO Song Hoi See welcomed members of the media to the stunning new Aerotel, which combines intuitively designed guestrooms, inspired public spaces, and flexible booking rates that suit both business and leisure travellers passing through China’s capital city.

In another exciting opening, Aerotel London Heathrow welcomed Heathrow Chief Commercial Officer Ross Baker, famed photographer Tommy Clarke, and a host of invited guests to be among the first to experience the major airport’s newest Plaza Premium Group venue. Plaza Premium Group opened its first lounge at London Heathrow in 2014 and has since expanded to a network of six lounges and one hotel. The new hotel, located in Terminal 3, Arrival Hall, features 82 guestrooms ranging from single rooms to family rooms, as well as social spaces.

15

EVENTS

The Group also welcomed its new Plaza Premium Lounge Helsinki with a launch event attended by media and industry partners, including CEO of Finavia Kimmo Mäki and his executive team. The lounge has opened as part of Helsinki Airport’s non-Schengen terminal’s expansion and features live kitchens, dedicated kids Playroom, and comprehensive workstations.

Finally, Plaza Premium Lounge has opened its new Dubai venue and used this important milestone as an opportunity to invite media and industry partners to visit the refined space at one of the world’s busiest airports. During the opening ceremony, which was attended by airport, duty free and supplier partners as well as leading local media, Plaza Premium Group Founder & CEO Song Hoi See shared how the Group has evolved its business over the years and how he looks forward to creating more airport hospitality experiences in the Middle East in the years to come.

Lion dance at Plaza Premium Lounge Helsinki opening event

Song Hoi-see with Kimmo Mäki, CEO and Heikki Koski, Chief Digital Officer of Finavia at Plaza Premium Lounge Helsinki opening event

16

Song Hoi-see with culinary and service team at Plaza Premium Lounge Helsinki opening event

EEVVEENNTTSS

Rania Ali, Emcee for Plaza Premium Lounge Dubai opening ceremony

Song Hoi-see and Hassan Mehmood, Regional General Manager of Plaza Premium Group Middle East with the team

Eugene Barry, Executive Vice President Commercial of Dubai Airports and his team Michelle Lee, Rachel Richardson and Ron Kuriakose

Song Hoi-see and Eugene Barry, Executive Vice President Commercial of Dubai Airports at Plaza Premium Lounge Dubai opening ceremony

Song Hoi-see and guests at Plaza Premium Lounge Dubai opening ceremony

Bill Mcpherson, Vice President of Emirates Airport Services, Outstations and Nick Moore, Senior Vice President, Passenger Services from Dubai Airports

17

EXPERIENCE

PLAZA PREMIUM GROUP HAS YOU COVERED AT TERMINAL KLIA 2 1

A

t Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Plaza Premium Group offers a full spectrum of innovative venues and amenities for busy travellers arriving and departing the Malaysian capital.Plaza Premium Group is best known for its extensive network of airport lounges, and at KLIA, the group presents both its Plaza Premium Lounge and Plaza Premium First brands. Located in the North Wing of the Satellite Terminal, Plaza Premium Lounge at KLIA is the group’s flagship venue in the country’s largest airport, and offers travellers a sophisticated space in which to relax before their flight, no matter which class they are travelling in. With stunning views across the apron, as well as dedicated workstations, shower facilities, comfortable lounge seating and a delectable hot and cold food selection, the lounge was one of the world’s first two independent airport lounges and continues to be a favourite among travellers.

Taking things to the next level is the Plaza Premium 2 First lounge, a refined space located in the East Zone of KLIA’s Satellite Terminal. Plaza Premium First offers travellers an elevated lounge experience, complete with sophisticated décor, intuitive service and some of the best lounge dining in the region.

Guests can take a table at Primo, the lounge’s a la carte dining destination, select from an extensive menu of Lavazza coffees, TWG teas and luxurious spirits and wines at the bar, or refresh and revitalise with a shower or a massage.

Tailored to travellers catching late or early flights or transiting KLIA, Aerotel Kuala Lumpur presents Plaza Premium Group’s ground-breaking 1. Dining Area at Plaza Premium hotel concept at Malaysia’s busiest airport. This First Kuala Lumpur 2. Thunder Tea Rice Grab ‘n’ Go contemporary house of slumber offers solo at Flight Club travellers, couples, and groups sophisticated 3. The Green Market at KLIA design-savvy guestrooms with pillow menus, 4. Double Plus Room at Aerotel powerful showers and high speed Wi-Fi; inspired Kuala Lumpur public spaces, flexible booking packages, and close proximity to airline decks and departure gates.

Finally, Plaza Premium Group offers hungry travellers a wide range of culinary experiences that will change perceptions of airport dining. Plaza Premium Group venues at both KLIA and klia2 are focused on serving healthy, fresh fare and innovative menus, whether it’s the western and international dishes of Flight Club, the group’s imaginative seed and herb-inspired concept, the healthy bites and cold pressed juices of its take away option, Flight Club Grab ‘n’ Go; the ‘Eat Smart, Eat Fresh, Eat Well’ mantra of The Green Market (Terminal klia2), renowned for its Japanese and Korean-inspired dishes; or the craft beers, energising smoothies and boutique wines of TheBar, located at the airport’s Mezzanine Level.

18

3

4

AWARDS

ROUNDS OF APPLAUSE Plaza Premium Group continues to win accolades from across the global hospitality industry for its dining outlets, transit hotels and meet and greet service.

Malaysia International Gastronomy Festival KULinary Awards at KLIA

Agoda 2019 Award for Aerotel Abu Dhabi

Shawn Lee, Sales Manager and Jane Tan, Senior Executive PR from Plaza Premium Group Malaysia accepting prestigious award of Agoda Gold Circle 2019

KULINARY 2019 For the third consecutive year, Plaza Premium Group’s dining venues at Kuala Lumpur International Airport have been recognised at the Malaysia International Gastronomy Festival (MIGF) KULinary Awards. This time, the recognition goes to Flight Club, which picked up the Outstanding Western Dish Award for its delicious Rotisserie Chicken and Braised Beef Cheek, as well as Outstanding On-TheGo Award for Flight Club Grab ‘n’ Go, the brand’s casual takeaway concept.

AGODA 2019 CUSTOMER’S REVIEW AWARD Aerotel Abu Dhabi has been awarded Agoda’s 2019 Customer Review Award. Chosen by global travellers who use Agoda, the award is voted by users of the leading online hotel portal, a hallmark of hospitality perfection amidst the Middle East’s competitive market and the team is grateful for the recognition and continuous support from their guests. As Aerotel continues to expand, the brand will continue to offer convenience, comfort, and good value with love and care to world travellers with best-in-class services.

AGODA CIRCLE AWARD 2019 In addition, Aerotel Kuala Lumpur has received the award for the top performing hotel in Agoda’s 11th Annual Gold Circle 2019 awards. The Agoda Gold Circle Award honours Agoda’s hotel partners’ superior service, and winners are selected through high scoring peer-to-peer reviews on Agoda based on pricing and availability excellence.

Mena Whabaa from Allways Dallas Fort Worth celebrates with award

DALLAS FORT WORTH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AWARD Mena Whabaa, Allways Meet & Greet Supervisor from Dallas Fort Worth has been recognised at the 2019 DFW Excellence Awards as a Rising Star, a significant accolade bestowed by one of the US’s busiest aviation gateways. The award is presented by the DFW Concessions team.

19

W H AT ’ S U P # P P G FA M I LY

PLAZA PREMIUM GROUP HAPPENINGS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE Plaza Premium Group RGMs yoga session during 2019 annual meeting

GROUP

RGM Meeting 2019 Plaza Premium Group HQ recently welcomed regional General Managers to Hong Kong for a week-long conference. At the conference, general managers had the chance to share upcoming developments and updates in their respective markets and to deliver different ideas from around the world that will help the Group’s leaderships create and align on global strategies as the Group continues to expand. To top off this successful event, Lululemon Hong Kong hosted a morning yoga session at one of the Group’s airport dining outlet The Terrace, which proved a wonderful way to clear everyone’s mind before a full day of meetings.

H O N G KO N G

ROME

Christmas Cupcake Workshop Being able to give back during the holidays is the greatest gift. Plaza Premium Group, together with Heep Hong Society, recently spread love and happiness to children with special needs with a co-organised Christmas cupcake workshop on 12 December 2019.

Eric Lau, General Manager of Plaza Premium Group Hong Kong Operations, and a group of volunteering colleagues led the workshop and had a wonderful afternoon connecting with the children during the most festive time of the year.

A Taste of Circeo at Plaza Premium Lounge Rome Plaza Premium Lounge Rome has teamed up with Aeroporti di Roma and Parco Nazionale del Circeo to promote awareness of the special delicacies and produce from Circeo, in central Italy. Offering world travellers a taste of Circeo by offering authentic cuisine and wines from the region, guests and partners enjoyed exquisite dishes prepared

by Gianna Cutuli, Executive Chef of Plaza Premium Lounge Rome, including famed dessert “cannoli”, paired with stunning views of the airport, while they learned more about this beautiful part of Italy.

Eric Lau sharing a moment of handmade souvenirs with children

Plaza Premium Lounge chefs serving delicious bites

20

W H AT ’ S U P # P P G FA M I LY

M A L AY S I A

Plaza Premium Group Malaysia Family Day Bringing work and home families together, the team at Plaza Premium Group Malaysia recently enjoyed a fantastic time during the Plaza Premium Group Family Day, held on 19 October 2019 at WaterWorld@ i-City.

Together, family and work friends had the chance to connect and bond over thrilling water games and activities at one of Malaysia’s largest water parks.

Family and friends having a wonderful time at WaterWorld@ i-City

AUSTRALIA

Canadian firefighters at Sky Team Lounge

Supporting Australia’s Fire Fighting Crews Plaza Premium Group Australia has come together to show their support and appreciation to both the Australian and international fire fighters from the US, Canada and New Zealand that have been battling widespread bush fires in New South Wales over the past six weeks. Stuart Vella, Regional General Manager of Plaza Premium Group Australia and his team had the pleasure to host these brave crews at the Skyteam Lounge, managed by Plaza Premium Group. To further support this challenging time, the team collected donations for the RFS (Rural Fire Service) from global travellers visiting the lounge.

LO N D O N

Tommy Clarke Partnership at Aerotel London Heathrow Aerotel London Heathrow invites travellers to explore nature through the lens of Tommy Clarke, a celebrated London-based travel photographer.

A new exhibition that showcases a curated selection of Clarke’s aerial shots from his Iceland series is now on display at the brand-new Terminal 3 hotel.

The photographs invite travellers to explore the beauty of mother nature before embarking on their own trip and serves as a reminder that it is possible to discover such otherworldly places through travel and exploration. Showcased in the Library Lounge and reception area of Aerotel London Heathrow, these captivating works encourage travellers to explore Iceland from a new perspective. To celebrate the launch of the partnership, all Aerotel London Heathrow guests will receive a 10% discount on prints of Tommy Clarke’s works displayed in the lounges for the duration of the installation.

Aerial photography by Tommy Clarke London based photographer

21

PA RT N E R S H I P S & P R O M O T I O N S

PLAZA PREMIUM FIRST LAUNCHES FIRST EVER ELITE PASS & UPGRADE PASS Lounge like a boss with family and friends. To elevate your travel experience while also saving money, the Elite Pass includes five 3-hour lounge entries, in addition to one complimentary visit, for HK$3,080. Entries can be redeemed for travelling companions and are valid for up to six months. In addition, travellers with eligible credit cards or travel passes to Plaza Premium Lounges can now upgrade to Plaza Premium First, top up five visits for an additional HK$1,250 or 10 visits for HK$2,500, with upgrade passes valid for up to 12 months. At Plaza Premium First, guests can take their pre-fight journey to the next level with exquisite dining experience at Primo, indulge in Hong Kong Airport’s largest whiskey selection and unwind with a massage. Travellers will also earn points from Smart Traveller, Plaza Premium Group’s rewards programme when purchasing passes.

OPENRICE Airport Dining restaurants in Hong Kong, including The Terrace, Moon Bar and Root98 Grab ‘n’ Go, have partnered with OpenRice.com, the city’s most popular online dining guide, to offer discounts through its ordering app. From now until 30 June 2020, users can place their takeaway order through the OpenRice app and pay with a MasterCard to receive HK$30 off on their first order, or apply the “Airport20” promo code to enjoy HK$20 off on orders over HK$50.

LIFESTYLE BY WYNDHAM Plaza Premium Lounge is delighted to welcome Wyndham Destinations, the world’s largest ownership and exchange company, as a travel partner. Members of Lifestyle by Wyndham can now enjoy special offers for Plaza Premium Lounge access across the globe as they travel to one of the 220 vacation ownership resorts or affiliated exchange properties.

Plaza Premium First Hong Kong

SAMSUNG From now until 30 April 2020, Samsung members and Samsung Pay members can enjoy a 20% discount on a minimum purchase of a 5-hour lounge package at selected Plaza Premium Lounges across South East Asia.

HOTELSCOMBINED + KAYAK Plaza Premium Lounge Taipei has partnered with HotelsCombined and Kayak, offering inbound and transit passengers at Taipei Taoyuan International Airport who use the HotelsCombined or Kayak Apps a 20% discount when accessing Plaza Premium Lounge Taipei. The discount is valid until 31 March 2020.

HANA TOUR Hana Tour travellers can now enjoy one complimentary lounge access across Malaysia until 1 March 2021.

HUAWEI Huawei presents exclusive privileges to its Huawei Mate 30 Series users, including complimentary lounge use at Plaza Premium Lounge and Plaza Premium First venues across Malaysia when customers travel. Valid until 14 November 2020, the redemptions can be done via Huawei’s Member Centre Apps.

22

PLAZA PREMIUM GROUP NETWORK

GREATER CHINA Hong Kong, Macau, Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Taipei AUSTRALIA Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney BRAZIL Rio De Janeiro CAMBODIA Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukvile CANADA Edmonton, Toronto, Vancouver, Winnipeg FINLAND Helsinki FRANCE Paris INDIA Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, New Delhi INDONESIA Jakarta ITALY Rome MALAYSIA Kota Kinabalu, Kuala Lumpur, Kuching, Langkawi, Penang OMAN Muscat, Salalah PHILIPPINES Cebu, Manila SAUDI ARABIA Dammam, Riyadh SINGAPORE SOUTH KOREA Seoul THAILAND Bangkok UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Abu Dhabi, Dubai UNITED KINGDOM London Heathrow UNITED STATES Dallas Fort Worth, Denver, New York, John F. Kennedy

24