Lagos Continental Hotel Eyes Growth Amid 2024 Challenges

Lagos Continental Hotel Navigates Challenges, Plans Bold Moves for 2025

Rising costs of essential commodities like diesel and food impacted operations in 2024.
The hotel adopted a balanced pricing strategy to remain competitive.
Plans for strategic investments and innovation in 2025 are underway.

The Lagos Continental Hotel faced a tough 2024 due to soaring operational costs but remains hopeful about a brighter future. During a press briefing in Lagos, Group General Manager Karl Hala, alongside General Manager Christoph Schleissing, shared insights into the hotel’s struggles and outlined plans for growth.

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Hala explained how the rising costs of basic items like diesel, rice, and rentals created operational difficulties. “The sharp increase in essential commodities hit the market and our colleagues hard. We had to strike a balance between managing costs and keeping customers happy,” he said.

To maintain competitiveness, the hotel opted for a moderate pricing approach, even at the expense of profits. “Sometimes you have to sacrifice a little to keep your connection with the market. Our middle-way strategy showed empathy while ensuring we could still operate profitably,” Hala added.

Despite these challenges, the hotel is doubling down on growth through investments in Nigeria’s hospitality sector. Hala highlighted the launch of the Ladi Kwali Sports Village in Abuja, a facility designed for sports, team bonding, and creativity. It features tennis courts, squash facilities, and a gym.

The hotel’s culinary ambitions were also spotlighted, with its 12 restaurants and bars aiming for a Michelin star. “If Nigerian chefs are earning Michelin stars abroad, why not here? We have the talent,” Hala said.

Looking ahead, Hala expressed optimism about 2025, citing increased bookings and inquiries at the hotel’s business and meeting centres. “This interest reflects growing confidence in the market and our team’s excellent performance,” he noted.

He also praised Nigeria’s untapped tourism potential, emphasizing the need for more boutique hotels, resorts, and convention tourism hubs. The Lagos and Abuja Continental Hotels are already positioning themselves as key players in this space, with facilities capable of hosting thousands.

“Nigeria’s rich culture and heritage deserve global recognition. We need to tell the world our story,” Hala urged.

While acknowledging economic challenges, Hala remains confident in the hospitality sector’s future, highlighting its contribution of over N1.2 trillion to Nigeria’s economy. “Diversification beyond oil is taking shape, and tourism is a vital part of that journey,” he stated.

To celebrate the festive season, the Lagos Continental Hotel is offering holiday experiences that showcase its commitment to top-tier service. Hala concluded by emphasizing the importance of investing in staff. “Our people are our greatest asset. Through training and international exposure, we ensure they remain the pride of our industry.”

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