19 June 2001 SINGAPORE – The 1,200-room Westin Stamford will be rebranded "Swissotel Singapore, The Stamford" when Raffles International takes over management on January 1, 2002.
Raffles is meanwhile keeping the new name for its other acquired property, the Westin Plaza, under wraps – but sources say it will come under the Raffles Collection and carry the Raffles name.
The name "Raffles L'Ermitage Singapore" is being tipped, along the lines of several Raffles properties in Europe.
TravelWeekly East understands the new general manager of Swissotel Singapore will be Paul Lee, who was hired as vice-president for Raffles International on April 1.
The long-awaited rebranding to Swissotel was expected after Raffles International bought the Swiss hotel company but observers wondered if the Swiss brand would add value to a property that is already a leader in its market category.
Asked what value the Swissotel name would bring to the former Westin Stamford, chief executive officer Richard Helfer cited longevity and a reputation for quality.
"The Stamford is a convention and business hotel and fits the Swissotel brand," he said.
"Swissotels in the US with the exception of Washington have extensive meeting facilities and we can share business in the network."