Singapore’s Hospitality Sector to Thrive as HICAP 2024 Welcomes 5,000 Delegates for an In-Depth Look at Investment Opportunities and Challenges in APAC’s Hotel Industry

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The Hotel Investment Conference Asia Pacific (HICAP) will take place from 16-18 October 2024 at Fairmont Singapore & Swissotel The Stamford. As one of the premier events in the hospitality investment space, HICAP will gather leading industry professionals, investors, and executives to discuss trends, challenges, and opportunities in the hotel sector across the Asia-Pacific region.

This event, organized by Northstar, is renowned for its strategic insights and networking opportunities, offering participants a platform to connect, collaborate, and shape the future of hospitality investments in the dynamic and fast-evolving APAC market.

HICAP to Attract Thousands of Global Delegates

The Hotel Investment Conference Asia Pacific (HICAP), set to be held at the Fairmont Singapore & Swissotel The Stamford, is expected to draw between 2,000 to 5,000 delegates. This estimation is based on the conference’s strong track record, consistently attracting influential figures from the global hotel investment community, including owners, developers, lenders, and industry professionals. HICAP has become a key event for networking and shaping the future of hotel investments across the Asia-Pacific region.

HICAP 2024: Shaping the Future of Hotel Investment in Asia Pacific

Celebrating its 34th year, the Hotel Investment Conference Asia Pacific (HICAP) continues to be a cornerstone event for the hotel and lodging investment community. The 2024 edition promises to be an impactful gathering, meticulously curated by the HICAP Program Planning Committee and Regional Advisors, bringing together thought leaders from various sectors.

With over 150 industry experts participating in more than 30 dynamic sessions and panels, attendees will gain valuable insights into the future of hotel investment and tourism. The discussions will focus on upcoming trends, innovations, and market shifts that will define the industry’s evolution.

Be part of HICAP 2024, where Asia Pacific’s top hotel investment professionals convene to shape the future and close significant deals. The current lineup of topics promises to address the most pressing issues and opportunities in the sector.

HICAP 2024 Program Planning Leaders

The HICAP 2024 Program Planning Committee comprises industry leaders from various sectors of the hospitality and investment fields. Notable members include Chandragupta Amritkar from Global Features, Bill Barnett from C9 Hotelworks, and Andrea Belfanti of ISHC.

These experts, along with representatives from major companies such as Marriott International, Pan Pacific Hotels Group, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Accor, are instrumental in curating the event’s agenda. Their collective expertise ensures that HICAP 2024 will offer insightful discussions on the future of hotel investments across the Asia-Pacific region.

Boosting Opportunities in the Travel Industry through HICAP 2024

HICAP 2024 provides a unique platform for the travel industry to capitalize on emerging trends and investment opportunities. By bringing together key stakeholders from the hospitality, tourism, and finance sectors, this event facilitates the formation of strategic partnerships, which drive innovation and expansion within the industry.

Participants can gain insights into the latest developments in hotel technology, sustainable tourism practices, and evolving consumer preferences. The knowledge and connections made at HICAP equip travel professionals with the tools needed to enhance their offerings, attract more travelers, and foster growth in a competitive market.

HICAP 2024 Event Schedule

Wednesday, 16 October 2024

• 8:00am – 8:00pm | Registration & Information
  Location: Convention Foyer (Level 4)
  Sponsored By: TUI BLUE Hotels & Resorts
• 8:30am – 9:30am | Continental Breakfast
  Location: Fairmont Ballroom Foyer
• 8:30am – 6:00pm | Continuous Coffee & Tea
  Location: Fairmont Ballroom Foyer
  Sponsored By: Unifocus
• 9:00am – 9:45am | Quicklink: Networking
  Location: Moor & Morrison
  Facilitators: Eric Levy & Shi’ai Liang
• 9:50am – 10:10am | AI in Hotel Design & Construction
  Location: Canning
  Presenter: Gaurang Khemka
• 10:10am – 11:10am | HICAP Tech Challenge – What’s ‘Hot’ in Hotel Technology?
  Location: Canning
  Host: Stephanie Ricca
  Judges: Industry Leaders
  Presenters: Unifocus, Revinate, Aiello International, iMBrace Limited
• 11:15am – 12:00pm | Hotel Investments 101 – From Acronyms to Zoning
  Location: Canning
  Moderator: Andrea Belfanti
  Panelists: Paul Dean, Giuliano Esposito, Yutaka Maruyama, Cyndy Tan Jarabata
• 12:00pm – 1:00pm | Networking Lunch
  Location: Fairmont Ballroom Foyer
• 1:00pm – 2:00pm | HICAP Master Class: 2024 HMA Survey
  Location: Padang & Collyer
  Moderator: Roy Melick
  Panelists: Sebastian Busa, Xander Nijnens
• 2:15pm – 4:35pm | Plenary Session
  Location: Padang & Collyer
• 2:15pm – 2:25pm: Welcome Remarks
• 2:25pm – 2:45pm: Economic Outlook by Han Teng Chua
• 2:45pm – 3:25pm: Travel & Tourism Outlook
• 3:25pm – 3:40pm: Hotel Performance Outlook
• 3:40pm – 4:30pm: Views from the Boardroom – Round One
• 4:30pm – 4:35pm: Wrap-up Remarks
• 4:50pm – 5:40pm | Breakout Sessions
• Session 01: Spotlight on Southeast Asia
• Session 02: Acquisitions – Hotel Investment Returns
• Session 03: Development – Adaptive Re-use & Conversions
• Session 04: Ownership – White Label Revolution
• 6:00pm – 8:00pm | Gala Opening Reception
  Location: Swissotel The Stamford Executive Lounge
  Hosted By: Accor

Thursday, 17 October 2024

• 8:00am – 7:45pm | Registration & Information
  Location: Convention Foyer (Level 4)
  Sponsored By: TUI BLUE Hotels & Resorts
• 8:30am – 9:30am | Continental Breakfast
  Location: Fairmont Ballroom Foyer
• 8:30am – 5:30pm | Continuous Coffee & Tea
  Location: Fairmont Ballroom Foyer
  Sponsored By: Unifocus
• 8:40am – 10:30am | Plenary Session
  Location: Padang & Collyer
• 8:40am – 8:55am: Welcome Remarks
• 8:55am – 9:35am: Investment Insights
• 9:35am – 10:00am: Global Check-in with Accor CEO
• 10:00am – 10:25am: Global Check-in with Hyatt CEO
• 10:25am – 10:30am: Wrap-up Remarks
• 10:30am – 11:00am | Networking Break
  Location: Fairmont Ballroom Foyer
• 11:00am – 11:50am | Breakout Sessions
• Session 05: Spotlight on East Asia
• Session 06: Ownership – High Valuations
• Session 07: Development – Sustainability & ROI
• Session 08: Acquisitions – Distressed Assets
• 12:00pm – 2:15pm | Lunch & Awards Session
  Location: Padang & Collyer
  Includes: Rising Star Award, Sustainable Hotel Awards, Lifetime Achievement Award
• 2:25pm – 3:15pm | Breakout Sessions
• Session 09: Spotlight on South Asia
• Session 10: Hotel Companies/Agreements
• Session 11: Acquisitions – Bank Financing
• Session 12: Ownership – Branded Residences
• 3:15pm – 3:45pm | Networking Break
  Location: Fairmont Ballroom Foyer
• 3:45pm – 5:20pm | Plenary Session
  Location: Padang & Collyer
• 3:45pm – 4:20pm: Travel, Tech, & OTAs
• 4:20pm – 4:45pm: Global Check-in
• 4:45pm – 5:15pm: Global Development & Strategy
• 5:15pm – 5:20pm: Wrap-up Remarks
• 5:45pm – 7:45pm | Networking Reception
  Location: PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering Ballroom

Friday, 18 October 2024

• 7:30am – 12:30pm | Registration & Information
  Location: Convention Foyer (Level 4)
  Sponsored By: TUI BLUE Hotels & Resorts
• 8:00am – 9:00am | Continental Breakfast
  Location: Fairmont Ballroom Foyer
• 8:00am – 12:30pm | Continuous Coffee & Tea
  Location: Fairmont Ballroom Foyer
  Sponsored By: Unifocus
• 9:00am – 9:50am | Breakout Sessions
• Session 13: Spotlight on Oceania
• Session 14: Hotel Companies/Agreements – Brand Value
• Session 15: Development – Food, Beverage, & ROI
• Session 16: Development – Luxury
• 9:50am – 10:25am | Networking Break
  Location: Fairmont Ballroom Foyer
• 10:25am – 12:30pm | Plenary Session
  Location: Padang & Collyer
• 10:25am – 11:05am: Global Check-in
• 11:05am – 12:00pm: Views from the Boardroom – Round Two
• 12:00pm – 12:25pm: Global Check-in with Dusit International
• 12:25pm – 12:30pm: Closing Remarks
• 12:30pm | Event Adjourns

List of the HICAP 2024 Patrons, Sponsors, & Supporters:

Patrons:

1. Accor
2. Hilton
3. Horwath HTL
4. JLL
5. Pan Pacific Hotels Group
6. Radisson Hotel Group
7. Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts

Platinum Sponsors:

1. Anantara Vacation Club
2. Baker McKenzie
3. BWH Hotels
4. Frasers Hospitality
5. Global Hotel Alliance
6. H World
7. Hotel 101 Global
8. HVS
9. Hyatt
10. Marriott International
11. Outrigger Hospitality Group
12. STR
13. WATG
14. Yonder

Traveling to Singapore

By Air:
Singapore’s main international gateway is Changi Airport (SIN), one of the world’s best and busiest airports. It serves as a hub for numerous airlines, offering direct flights from most major cities globally. Upon arrival, taxis, airport shuttles, and MRT services provide convenient transport to the event venue, which is approximately a 20-minute drive from the airport.

By Train:
If you’re traveling from neighboring Malaysia, consider taking the KTM Intercity Train or the luxury Eastern & Oriental Express train service from Kuala Lumpur, which will take you to Woodlands Train Checkpoint in Singapore.

Transportation Options in Singapore

• MRT (Mass Rapid Transit): The City Hall MRT station, located a short walk from the event venue, connects you to most parts of Singapore via the East-West and North-South MRT lines.
• Taxi & Ride-Hailing Services: Singapore offers reliable and efficient taxi services, as well as popular ride-hailing platforms such as Grab and Gojek. The event venue has dedicated drop-off points for ease of access.
• Public Buses: Buses are available around the venue, offering affordable transport. Check Singapore’s public transportation app for live schedules and route information.

Where to Stay

While HICAP takes place at the Fairmont Singapore & Swissotel The Stamford, the surrounding area boasts numerous accommodation options:

• Raffles Hotel Singapore – A luxurious, historic hotel offering colonial elegance.
• Marina Bay Sands – Famous for its rooftop infinity pool and breathtaking views.
• The Fullerton Hotel Singapore – A heritage property located along the scenic Singapore River.
• Pan Pacific Singapore – A modern option offering easy access to Marina Square shopping and dining.

Dining Options Around the Venue

On-site:
Both the Fairmont Singapore and Swissotel The Stamford offer a range of dining options, from international buffets to fine dining restaurants. Some of the must-try spots include:

• JAAN by Kirk Westaway – A Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative British cuisine.
• Prego – For authentic Italian dishes.

Nearby:
Singapore is renowned for its culinary scene. Just a short walk from the venue, you’ll find a variety of dining options:

• Makansutra Gluttons Bay – A popular hawker center near Marina Bay, offering local favorites like satay and chili crab.
• Lau Pa Sat – Another famous hawker center, known for its street food.
• Chijmes – A historic complex now housing trendy restaurants and bars, just 10 minutes from the event.

Things to Do in Singapore

If you have some free time during HICAP, Singapore offers many attractions:

• Gardens by the Bay – Visit the iconic Supertrees and Cloud Forest.
• Marina Bay Sands SkyPark – Take in panoramic views of the city from the observation deck.
• Orchard Road – A shopping haven for high-end fashion and unique souvenirs.
• Singapore Flyer – Experience a bird’s-eye view of the skyline from Asia’s largest observation wheel.
• Sentosa Island – A short trip from the city center, offering beaches, resorts, and attractions like Universal Studios.

Networking Tips for HICAP 2024

• Download the HICAP Event App: Stay connected with real-time updates on sessions, speakers, and networking events.
• Bring Plenty of Business Cards: Networking is a major part of HICAP, so come prepared.
• Attend the Quicklink Sessions: These are great opportunities for speed networking in a structured format.
• Gala Opening Reception: Don’t miss the opening reception hosted by Accor, where delegates mingle and discuss new partnerships.

Useful Information

• Currency: Singapore Dollar (SGD)
• Language: English is widely spoken, along with Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil.
• Weather in October: Expect warm and humid conditions, with temperatures ranging from 26°C to 31°C (78°F to 88°F). Be prepared for occasional rain, so carrying an umbrella is advisable.

HICAP 2024 promises to be a pivotal event for the Asia-Pacific hotel investment industry, offering unparalleled opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing, and deal-making. With a diverse lineup of sessions, expert panels, and cutting-edge insights from industry leaders, attendees will gain valuable perspectives on the future of hospitality investments.

Coupled with the vibrant backdrop of Singapore, this year’s conference will not only facilitate strategic business connections but also provide an inspiring environment to explore new trends and innovations shaping the sector. HICAP 2024 is where the future of hotel investment takes center stage.