The portfolio of North Bucharest Investments has been enhanced with a project of unparalleled brand prestige – the Kempinski aparthotel. For more insights, we spoke with Doina Cotoman in an interview sponsored by Proimobil.md and North Bucharest Investments.
Hello, Doina. Throughout our numerous interviews, the prospect of investing in a brand as eminent as Kempinski has never come up. I'm eager to learn more. Can you tell us about the project?
Kempinski, among Europe's most venerable hotel chains with a focus on luxury, is set to unveil its first property in Romania. The Kempinski group presently operates 82 hotels and residences across 35 countries and is in the process of launching over 26 projects globally.
Will this hotel be located in Bucharest?
No, the location is Poiana Brasov, set to be the site of a modern ski resort that will introduce the first five-star hotel to the Transylvania area, marking Kempinski's debut in Romania. Poiana Brasov is known as one of Romania's prime spots, full of potential for growth.
Visitors to the Kempinski mountain resort will have immediate access to nearly 15 miles of ski slopes on the Postavaru Massif, celebrated for its stunning natural scenery in Central Europe.
Additionally, a short 45-minute drive takes guests to some of Romania's most famous landmarks, including Bran Castle, the mythical abode of Count Dracula, the magical Peles Castle, the imposing Rasnov Citadel, and the historic city of Brasov. This venture is truly a milestone for Romania.
The entire Romanian media is buzzing with comments from Bernold Schroeder, CEO of the Kempinski Group and President of the Board of Kempinski AG, about the goal to boost the luxury hospitality sector in the area and offer an authentic five-star experience to everyone visiting Romania.
What's the scale of investment here?
The project commands an investment of 70 million euros.
How did North Bucharest Investments come to be involved in this project?
Our reputation on the Romanian market as a firm capable of attracting significant investments precedes us. The Kempinski project in Poiana Brasov is advancing through a conventional deal structure, with Kempinski providing brand prestige, managerial expertise, and marketing prowess. The partner handles construction and financing. In the heart of Poiana Brasov, near the lake, a Kempinski hotel and aparthotel are set to rise. We initiated with the pre-sale of ten apartments out of a total 75 in the aparthotel, quickly securing investors for four. The appeal of pre-sale prices is clear.
Will Kempinski manage the aparthotel as well?
Indeed, Kempinski will oversee the aparthotel management, ensuring that all furnishings and equipment align with Kempinski's high standards. This venture represents a solid investment opportunity, with projected apartment rental rates at 260 euros per day.
Could you detail the investment process?
The construction is expected to span two years, with a completion date targeted for November 30, 2026. Prospective owners are required to make three payments: 35% now, another 35% a year from now, and the final 30% upon the hotel's completion. The initial payment is set at 145,000 euros. Notably, the option for resale during the construction phase has been arranged. Given the project's popularity, we anticipate a price increase of at least 3,000 euros per square meter from the initial rate. For instance, during the launch of a similar Kempinski project in Egypt, half of the 300 units available were sold on the first day.
Are the anticipated rental prices feasible for Poiana Brasov?
Our market research confirms that. Currently, the cost of a stay at the 4-star Alpin Poiana Brasov is on par with that of the luxurious 5-star Kempinski Hotel Corvinus in Budapest. Thus, we expect the pricing in Poiana Brasov to align with that of Kempinski in Bansko, Bulgaria, where the hotel has successfully operated for 18 years. Additionally, apartment owners in the Kempinski aparthotel in Poiana Brasov will receive two Titanium cards, offering discounts at 40 luxury Kempinski hotels worldwide.
Doina, let's conclude here and share your contact information, as we always do. This is a first for you – managing publicity for such a significant collaboration between Kempinski and North Bucharest Investments. And for Moldovans, it's an unprecedented opportunity to invest in a distinguished brand.
Doina's Contact Numbers:
+40725 893 441 for Romania and WhatsApp
+37360222394 for Moldova, roaming, Telegram