One of the iconic multi-million hotels in Nairobi is set to return to business in the country after closing down for 21 months.
Fairmont The Norfolk is set to open its doors to customers from April according to the latest announcement made by the owners.
The owner was forced to close two of his luxurious hotels in the country, The Norfolk Hotel in Nairobi and the luxurious Mara Safari Club following a dispute with employees in a row caused by the disruption and revenue loss arising from the pandemic.
The business venture which is run by French hospitality giant Accor, stated that it is now ready to resume services and welcome back customers
“We are pleased to announce that Fairmont the Norfolk will reopen on April 1, 2022, to welcome guests and visitors,” said Accor Kenya country general manager Mehdi Morad.
He added, “the hotel and Accor regional team have worked closely together to reopen the hotel and its facilities.”
Morad further detailed that the resumption will be in line with all the containment measures set by the government.
“Rest assured that the safety of our guests and employees is our first priority, and our team will continue to follow official recommendations and guidelines from the local authorities,” he stated.
Its reopening is a big win for Kenyans seeking employment in the hospitality industry after its closure saw hundreds of employees lose their jobs.
This has been affirmed by Morad who insisted that employees welfare will be a key priority.
It is also expected to spur other businesses in the area including tours and travels and even food businesses.
The hotel has a rich history having been set up around 1980. Fairmont The Norfolk was one of several hotels that resorted to shutting down and suspending operations due to a reduction in the number of guests at the facilities.
Serena Hotels shut down a total of 10 lodges and camps in Kenya and Tanzania until June 15, 2020.
Despite the government setting aside a stimulus package to rescue the tourism and hospitality sector, several other hotels have continued to feel the hit of the pandemic.
In the latest development, a South African investor has sold Fairview Hotel, Town Lodge, and City Lodge Two Rivers. This was informed by his decision to quit the East African market.
Fairview Hotel has 127 rooms, City Lodge Hotel at Two Rivers has 171 rooms while Town Lodge Upper Hill has 84 rooms.
Treetop hotel where Queen Elizabeth vacationed is also among the other iconic hotels that closed their doors due to the effect of the pandemic.
