Hotel update
Despite being severely impacted by the COVID-19 crisis, Australia’s hotel community hasn’t closed its doors. Instead, they’re offering a safe haven for those who need it most.
BUSINESS NOT AS USUAL W
ith international borders temporarily closed and events on hold, Australia’s accommodation sector has been shaken by the outbreak of COVID-19. As restrictions on public gatherings and travel began to roll out from early March, many of the country’s booming hotels were left empty. But, in times of struggle, Australia’s accommodation providers have done everything they can in order to keep doors open. While their rooms might not be full and their event spaces remain empty, these hotel providers are rolling out new initiatives and adapting their business to help those in need.
TFE Hotels supports its staff and guests
TOP LEFT: The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Mega Kuningan takes part in Marriott’s Light for Hope initiative TOP RIGHT: Best Western Plus Travel Inn Carlton delivers lunch to frontline health workers
10 Spice Winter 2020
From the outset, TFE Hotels has focused on providing steady work for its staff so they, in turn, can continue to support their families and dependants. Across Australia, a number of TFE properties have opened their doors to returning residents who are required to complete 14 days of mandatory quarantine. In just 48 hours of receiving its first isolation guests, the group launched The Daily Edition, a newsletter full of puzzles, wellness tips and special information. Hotel teams have also delivered birthday treats, Easter surprises and sleep packs to guests.
TFE Hotels chief operating officer Chris Sedgwick said the leadership team is incredibly proud of its staff. “Our hotel teams have hospitality at their core, and are doing a phenomenal job in preparing, welcoming and looking after our guests under extremely difficult circumstances,” he said. To support its staff, TFE Hotels has introduced the TFE Team Hub, offering employment resources, selfhelp, professional development and wellness options.
Community focus at Marriott International During the pandemic, Marriott International has focused on assisting healthcare workers and community caregivers on the frontline across the globe. A number of Marriott properties have provided respite for hospital workers, military personnel and supermarket employees who are required to stay close to work. Associates from hotels across Asia Pacific have volunteered more than 40,000 hours to serve their communities through food donation, making protective personal equipment and securing shelter for medics and journalists. In an effort to send a positive message to the wider community, Marriott hotels across Asia Pacific have launched a new initiative, Light for Hope. More than 270 hotels have lit up their hotel rooms in the
