Aligned with the theme of World Tourism Day 2024, ‘Tourism and Peace,’ Aitken Spence Hotels has long embraced tourism’s ability to unite cultures and foster understanding. This guiding principle has shaped the company’s operations and guest experiences over the past five decades in Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Oman and India.
From its beginnings with Neptune Hotel, named after the Roman god of the sea, Aitken Spence quickly made history as the first Sri Lankan hospitality company to invest overseas with the acquisition of Bathala Island Resort in the Maldives in 1994. This pioneering spirit continued as the company expanded into Oman in 2008. Turyaa Chennai was opened in India in 2016, and a successful collaboration with RIU Hotels Spain followed in 2017. These game-changing initiatives have stood the test of time, cementing Aitken Spence’s place as an industry trailblazer.
Today, Aitken Spence Hotels manages 18 properties, totalling 2,629 rooms. The flagship brand, Heritance Hotels & Resorts, is renowned for its architectural excellence, with three properties designed by the legendary Geoffrey Bawa. Notably, Heritance Kandalama became the first LEED certified hotel outside the United States and the first Green Globe certified hotel in South Asia. It remains one of the most awarded hotels globally, reflecting Aitken Spence’s innovative approach to blending design, nature, and sustainability.
Sustainability is a cornerstone of Aitken Spence’s operations. From managing a 211-acre conservation forest at Heritance Kandalama, which supports rich biodiversity, to eliminating single-use plastics across all resorts in the Maldives, the company consistently demonstrates its commitment to environmental responsibility. These initiatives are benchmarks within the industry, underscoring Aitken Spence’s leadership in sustainability. Additionally, the company’s dedication to nurturing talent is evident through its hotel schools at Heritance Kandalama and Heritance Ahungalla, ensuring that future generations of hospitality professionals are equipped to thrive.
As Aitken Spence Hotels reflects on its 50-year journey, this milestone serves as a springboard to motivate employees and inspire a renewed focus on the future of hospitality. “Reaching this milestone is a moment of pride and reflection,” remarked Stasshani Jayawardena, Jt. Deputy Chairperson and Jt. Managing Director of Aitken Spence Hotel Holdings PLC. “It’s a celebration of our achievements and a reaffirmation of our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community impact. We are greatly thankful to our discerning guests, dedicated associates, and valued suppliers and partners for their unwavering support, trust, and collaboration over the years. Your contribution has shaped our journey; and we are dedicated to continuing this path, enhancing our positive influence, and creating timeless memories and exceptional experiences for all.”
As Aitken Spence Hotels celebrates 50 years of excellence in the hospitality industry, it reflects on a remarkable journey marked by growth and transformation, underscored by a steadfast commitment to creating timeless experiences for guests around the world. This legacy, supported by strong leadership, dedicated teams, and long-standing partnerships, positions Aitken Spence Hotels to advance sustainable tourism and make a meaningful impact across the globe.
