Branded Residence A Luxury Illusion or Real Value. TSHS-0065

The episode titled “Branded Residences A Luxury Illusion or Real Value” discusses the concept of branded residences in the hospitality market.

I am joined by my guest Mark Dardenne, an expert in the development of branded residences in the Gulf area. Branded residences have gained popularity in the past few years, especially in Dubai.

Mark explains that branded residences are properties that are associated with a specific brand or hotel operator. These residences offer a luxury lifestyle with various levels of amenities. During the discussion,

Mark emphasized the importance of doing thorough due diligence when considering buying into a branded residence. He emphasizes the need for partnerships with the right developers who share the same vision and respect the brand’s positioning. The conversation also touches upon the potential challenges and risks associated with branded residences.

Sam-Erik mentions a case where a developer in Dubai used a luxury brand’s logo without fully understanding the rights and intentions of the brand, leading to a mismatch and uncomfortable situation for both parties. Overall, the episode emphasizes the growth and sustainability of the branded residence concept in the hospitality market, while emphasizing the need for careful consideration and partnerships when venturing into this segment.

The Roller Coaster Ride: What aspiring Entrepreneurs need to prepare for – Chris Nader. TSHS-0064

The Roller Coaster Ride: What aspiring Entrepreneurs need to prepare for – Chris Nader. TSHS-0064

Chris Nader, CO-founder, of ENVI lodges talks about his background growing up in a family of hoteliers and his early exposure to the hospitality industry working at his family’s beach club at a young age. He later got a hospitality MBA from EHL, and worked with various hotel brands before deciding during the pandemic in 2020 to launch his own sustainable hospitality company focused on luxury eco-lodges.

He co-founded ENVI Lodges intending to create a global brand of lodges immersed in nature that provide unique guest experiences while operating responsibly towards local communities and the environment.

Chris discusses the key attributes entrepreneurs need – the courage to take risks and be disciplined to see things through.

He talks about the fundraising process, investing partners they targeted like high net worth individuals and family offices, and differences of raising funds in Europe vs the Middle East. Chris elaborates on ENVI Lodge’s brand vision centered around community and distinguishes it from safari resorts.

He shares perspectives on technology’s role at the lodges to enhance the guest experience while allowing people to disconnect.

The interview concludes with Chris emphasizing the importance of supporting and collaborating with local communities wherever ENVI Lodges launches.

Chris Nader can be contacted on Linkedin and Instagram, @envilodges and @hotel_trotter. When you contact Chris Nader please add #thesocialhotelier

Enjoyed our discussion. Feel free to Buy me a Coffee right here.https://www.buymeacoffee.com/samerik ☕️