businesstravelerusa.com10
UPFRONT
THINKING BIGGER
The global head for
Hampton by Hilton
Shruti Gandhi Buckley
shares the brand’s vision
for the coming years.ONE ON ONE
BT: Hilton has successfully launched the 420-room Hampton by Hilton Dubai Airport, the largest
Hampton hotel in the world, and the first in the Middle East. Tell us more about the brand’s global plans.
SB: Hampton is Hilton’s largest of the company’s 17 brands. Operating for 35 years, we have now opened
more than 2,490 hotels around the world representing nearly 260,000 rooms in 27 countries and territories.
More is on the way with nearly 700 hotels in the brand’s global pipeline. Hampton has the largest pipeline
of hotels in brand history, and at the moment, we are the fastest growing international hospitality brand in
all of China.BT: With so many hotels opening, is there a growing trend of travelers looking for midscale properties
around the world?
SB: Yes, we are noticing that more people are looking for a branded quality product in the midscale
category. This is especially notable in regions like the Middle East where the marketplace is filled with high-
end hotels, but there is an incredible influx in demand for midscale lodging. Even among those that can
afford luxury accommodations, we are noticing that people are willing to spend less on a hotel so that they
can elevate the rest of their travel experience perhaps through dining and activities.BT: Will Hampton properties overseas offer anything different than US locations?
SB: Hampton by Hilton’s service experience and commitment to quality are consistent around the world.
Offerings such as our fast, free WiFi, free hot breakfast, and the 100% Hampton Guarantee are standard
across the globe. In fact, Hampton was the first in its category to offer such a service guarantee, which
ensures that each guest is 100 percent happy. The design experience and hotel offerings are often regionally
adapted. For example, Hampton by Hilton Dubai Airport has been tailored to meet the expectations of the
market, with amenities such as a rooftop infinity pool and rooftop g ym, along with locally inspired menu
items on the buffet.BT: Business travelers are an important market for Hampton. What are you doing to target them?
SB: The Hilton Honors program is an incredible driver for business travelers who like to earn points when
they travel. According to Certify, Hampton by Hilton is the number one expensed hotel brand in all tiers
of service. We believe that our focus on quality design, comfortable bedding, and unparalleled service keep
business travelers coming back. The Hilton Honors mobile app is another point of differentiation since
guests can skip the front desk and unlock their rooms with Digital Key. You can even select the specific
room you want – whether that is by the elevator or on a high floor, for example.SEPTEMBER 2019DOUBLING DOWN IN CHI-TOWN
The dual-branded Hilton Garden
Inn Chicago Downtown South and
Homewood Suites by Hilton Chi-
cago Downtown South Loop has
opened with a total of 342 rooms.
The 30-story property incorporates
the 146-room Hilton Garden Inn
as well as the 196-suite Homewood
Suites by Hilton, which offers studio
and one-bedroom units, all with full
kitchens.The prestigious downtown
location is in the South Loop
neighborhood, home to exten-
sive commercial development,
and offers a shared 24-hour
business center, fitness center
and indoor pool. There is meet-
ing space for up to 85 people,
as well as a variety of dining
options.
hilton.com BT^