Club Med’s continued expansion, strategic partnerships, and commitment to staying atop current trends, position it as a leading player in the global hospitality industry. By catering to diverse market preferences, adopting innovative concepts, and prioritising guest satisfaction, Club Med remains at the forefront of the all-inclusive resort sector, ready for sustained growth and success in the coming years. Rachael Harding, Chief Executive Officer, East and South Asia & Pacific Markets, Club Med shares on strategies designed to ensure steady growth in the Indian market.
By Naina Nath
Expanding markets & trends
Traditionally, the company is focused on Indian Ocean destinations, catering to markets such as Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and India. However, recent trends indicate a growing interest in high-end, immersive experiences, such as mountain getaways in the European Alps and Japanese ski resorts. This transformation reflects the evolving dynamics of travellers, especially from India, who seek longer stays and embrace the all-inclusive concept, a hallmark of Club Med’s offerings. “We at Club Med have observed a notable shift in market preferences,” adds Rachael Harding.
Strategic partnerships & market penetration
With 67 resorts worldwide, Club Med is aimed to expand its brand presence in a competitive hospitality landscape dominated by thousands of hotels. “To overcome this hurdle, we rely on strategic partnerships and collaborations with influencers, travel agencies, and other stakeholders. By leveraging the expertise of our partners and implementing targeted marketing initiatives, we aim to strengthen our foothold in both established and emerging markets,” mentions Rachael Harding. By adopting marketing initiatives and leveraging trade partnerships, Club Med seeks to expand its reach and consolidate its position in the Indian tourism landscape.
The unique ‘All-Inclusive’ concept
Club Med’s unique selling proposition lies in its all-inclusive model, which goes beyond traditional offerings to include not only food and beverage but also a wide range of activities tailored to different demographics. Rachael Harding further adds, “With 70 per cent of our guests being families, we place particular emphasis on our thoughtfully curated kids’ clubs, where children can engage in age-appropriate activities under expert supervision.” This commitment to providing a holistic vacation experience distinguishes Club Med from its competitors and fosters loyalty among guests seeking convenience and value for money.
Diverse source markets & expansion plans
While France remains Club Med’s primary market, the company has strategically diversified its portfolio to include North America, Brazil, and key Asian markets such as Singapore and Australia. “Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Club Med has maintained its development strategy, opening five new resorts and planning 17 additional properties by 2025,” says Rachael Harding. These ambitious expansion
plans underscore the company’s confidence in the resilience of the travel industry and its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of discerning travellers worldwide.
Multicultural culinary experiences
Club Med’s culinary offerings reflect its commitment to catering to diverse tastes and preferences. With dedicated corners for different cuisines and a focus on vegetarian options, they ensure that guests from around the world feel at home. Adding to it, Rachael Harding says, “Club Med acknowledges the evolving preferences of Indian travellers, who seek authentic, local experiences alongside familiar comforts. By incorporating regional flavours and culinary traditions into its menus, Club Med enhances the overall guest experience and encourages cultural exchange among its diverse clientele.”
Wellness & more
From yoga and meditation to sports and spa treatments, guests can tailor their experience to their individual preferences and wellness goals. By prioritising wellness and recreational activities, Club Med ensures that guests return home feeling rejuvenated and inspired, further cementing its reputation as a leader in the all-inclusive resort sector. “In response to the growing demand for wellness-focused travel experiences, we at Club Med have expanded our offerings to include a wide range of activities aimed at promoting physical and mental well-being,” highlights Rachael Harding.
Expanding reach through digital platform
Club Med maintains a direct Indian line and email support to cater specifically to the needs of its Indian clientele, further strengthening its presence in the market. “We recognise the importance of a robust online presence in reaching potential guests and engaging with existing ones. In addition to its main website, the company has developed Club Med Travel Agent (CMTA), a dedicated platform for travel agents. This initiative enhances accessibility and provides resources and training for agents to promote Club Med’s offerings effectively,” elaborates Rachael Harding.
Community engagement & sustainability
The company actively participates in local initiatives and collaborates with community organisations to support social and environmental causes. Club Med prioritises sustainability in its operations, implementing measures to minimise its environmental footprint and promote conservation efforts in the destinations it operates. “As a responsible corporate citizen, we are committed to community engagement and sustainable practices,” shares Rachael Harding.
