Meet Tsibo and Celine, a dynamic duo deeply immersed in the world of hospitality. From transforming old hotels to the creation of The Collector, their passion lies in crafting spaces where guests feel a personal connection. This Q&A unveils their approach to unique customer experiences, tackling market challenges, embracing sustainability, and leveraging technology.

Tell us about yourself and your experience in the hospitality industry.

Hi, we're Tsibo and Celine. We both grew up in families that were all about running hotels and restaurants, so you could say hospitality is in our blood. We've always wanted to do something together in this field, something that felt like ours. That's how we started with rebranding old hotels and opening up places like The Collector, which is a project we're really proud of. It's not just a hotel; it's a spot where all kinds of people can meet and share stories.

We've opened a few businesses over the years, always trying to make places where guests feel welcome and have a unique experience. It's been a lot of work but also a lot of fun. We've learned so much from each project and from each other.

Managing work and family, especially with our three kids, is a big part of our lives. We really try to keep a balance, making sure we spend quality time together as a family, away from all the business stuff. It's important for us to show our kids that while work is important, family is at the center of everything we do.

In simple terms, we're just a couple who loves creating spaces where people can feel at home, have a good time, and maybe leave with a story or two to tell. That's what our work is all about.

What does a great customer experience look like at your hotels, and what makes it unique?

Creating a great experience for our guests is all about making their stay personal and something they won't forget. At our hotels, like The Collector, we do more than just give our guests a room. We invite them to be part of something special. It's about connecting with them, understanding what they're looking for, and then delivering that in a way that's unique to us.

For example, at The Collector, we've built the whole place around the idea of bringing people together through their own stories and experiences. It's not just about sleeping in a beautiful room; it's about feeling a part of the hotel culture and the stories that make it alive. We've filled the hotel with interesting pieces and art that have their own stories, hoping to inspire our guests to share theirs too.

We pay attention to the little things—like how our guests prefer their coffee or what kind of pillow they like. And it's in these details that we can make their stay memorable. Whether it's through our design, the local treats we offer, or just knowing their names, it's all about creating a connection.

This approach is integrated into all our businesses, from the way we design our spaces to the experiences we offer. We believe that this personal touch not only makes our guests' stay better but also turns them into stories they'll share long after they leave. That's the kind of experience we aim for.

What do you think are some of the major opportunities and challenges in the hotel market this year?

In 2024 we will be focusing on a few key areas. First, hotels will need to make stays more personalized. This means guests can tailor their experiences, from room settings to activities, to suit their tastes. Next, there's a big push for being eco-friendly. Hotels are working on using less energy, serving local food, and reducing waste to protect the environment. Technology is also a big deal, helping make check-ins smoother and providing tips for things to do with just a few taps on a smartphone. All of these changes are about creating a more customized, environmentally friendly, and tech-savvy experience for every guest.

How are you approaching the issue of sustainability?

We are trying to show our commitment to sustainability in everything we do, from the way we source our materials locally to how we focus on reducing waste and utilizing energy-efficient technologies to lessen our environmental footprint. It's all about making choices that not only benefit our guests but also the planet. Expanding on this commitment, we've recently had on an exciting collaboration with 2050, a fashion brand from Amsterdam. This partnership is a testament to our dedication to sustainability, marking a significant milestone for us at The Collector Hotel and the broader SLOK Hospitality Group. Through our collaboration, we've launched a unique collection of bags that beautifully blend style with sustainability. The toiletry bags, for example, are crafted from reused pillowcases, while the shoppers are made from repurposed luxury towels. The tote bags have been transformed from old bed linens into trendy accessories with a purpose. What makes this collection stand out is the meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship. Each item is not only designed to be stylish and functional but also tells a story of sustainability. It's about bringing our guests into our journey of making conscious choices for a sustainable future. We're offering this collection at The Collector Hotel, inviting our guests to embrace sustainable fashion choices and join us in our journey towards a more sustainable hospitality industry. It's a step forward in our mission, and we're thrilled to see where this collaboration takes us next.

How important is hospitality tech to your business – and are there any investments you’ve made that you think have been transformative for your hotel?

For us at SLOK Hospitality Group, technology is really important. It helps make guests happy, makes our work easier, and helps us stay competitive. We use modern technology to meet the high expectations of today's travelers.

We've spent a lot on new tech that has changed the way we do things. For example, we have better systems for managing our properties and we use online tools to make things run smoother. This year, we're focusing on using smart data and AI to understand our guests better and make their experiences even better.

In short, technology is super important for us. The new tech we've invested in has not only made guests happier but also helped us work better and keep up with what travelers want

What is the greatest piece of business advice you’ve ever received? 

Tsibo – Everyone needs luck to succeed. And luck is the hard work of being well prepared and good timing. 

Celine - Stay true to your style. Authenticity is crucial for the storytelling and concept. So develop a unique style that reflects the personality of the concept. A distinct voice and perspective will help to stand out in a crowded market.

Do you attend the Independent Hotel Show? If so, what do you value about the show? 

Definitely! Attending the Independent Hotel Show is a must for us. We find it incredibly valuable for networking with industry leaders, discovering innovative products and services, and gaining insights into emerging trends that keep us ahead in the competitive hospitality landscape.