Although the downturn in the German economy has had a serious impact on the country's hotel industry, the impending arrival of the 2006 World Cup is fuelling something of a mini-boom in new hotel development, particularly in cities which will be hosting the tournament.
A prime example is the new Scandic by Hilton Stuttgart NeckarPark, due to open in 2006. The hotel is a part of the Multi Event Center, next to the city's Gottlieb-Daimler Stadium (which will host at least six matches during the tournament) and the Hanns-Martin-Schleyer Hall.
The building's owner and investor is the Haussler Group with its co-investors SV Insurances in Stuttgart and Dresden. Hotel management and construction consultants the Success Group are also involved.
The 141 air-conditioned rooms and 9 suites will be characterized by their Nordic design. Each suite has its own sauna and lounge area. There are also seven event and conference rooms (240 m2) with a total capacity of 300.
The hotel will be well placed to cater for the events and functions which inevitably accompany the World Cup matches themselves. A multi-functional event arena with a 1500 m2 room and a 500 m2 foyer which is integrated in the hotel complex offers banqueting facilities for up to 750 people. Leisure facilities include a 180 m2 spa with sauna, vapour bath and relaxation room as well as a fitness center.
Finally, the hotel provides three restaurants, a lobby bar, and an adjoining beer garden.
Scandic and Scandic by Hilton are part of the Hilton Group. With their 140 hotels in nine countries they represent the largest hotel chain in Northern Europe. Further Scandic by Hilton Hotels have been opened in Bari and Siracusa (Italy) this year. Scandic by Hilton Rome Airport will open in 2007.
"We are very happy to announce the impending opening of a Scandic by Hilton in Stuttgart", said Deepak Seth, Vice President Development Europe & Africa, Hilton International. "This agreement confirms our aim to establish the brands Hilton and Scandic by Hilton on the German hotel market."
Manfred Friedrich, Managing Director of the Success Group added:
"The Success Group takes great pride in this first project with Hilton International and the renowned Haussler Group. Together with the Scandic by Hilton, Stuttgart we look forward to enjoying a close relationship with many partners, particularly within the exciting sporting community."
www.hilton.com
www.success-group.de
