Category: Press

Park Hyatt Emerges In South Africa With The Opening Of Park Hyatt Johannesburg

Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) today announced the opening of Park Hyatt Johannesburg, marking the luxury brand’s third destination in the African region. Set within the vibrant Rosebank district, celebrated for its cultural richness and urban vitality – Park Hyatt Johannesburg offers a refined, residential-style experience where thoughtful design, immersive art, and warm hospitality come together in perfect balance. “We are extremely proud to open Park Hyatt Johannesburg, extending the legacy of the Park Hyatt brand to Rosebank,” commented Mitch Gemmell, general manager, Park Hyatt Johannesburg. “Our team is dedicated to offering deeply personalized service and thoughtfully curated experiences, delivered with meticulous attention to detail and the essence of modern luxury hospitality in every interaction.” Local Heritage & ArchitectureThe hotel elegantly preserves its architectural heritage, blending classical and contemporary elements inspired by colonial residences. Originally constructed in the 1930s as a stately colonial mansion, the building reflects the influence of Sir Herbert Baker, whose architectural legacy helped shape the character of Johannesburg’s early residential estates. Today, Park Hyatt Johannesburg honors this legacy through the careful restoration of original features such as graceful arches, high ceilings, and wide verandahs, creating a serene oasis that seamlessly connects heritage with modern luxury. The hotel is structured around a central open-air courtyard, anchored by a magnificent jacaranda tree, sculpted gardens, and a heated outdoor pool, creating a serene focal point for relaxation and reflection. Embedded across the property is a locally curated art and design program, with each floor and space featuring site-specific themes inspired by the region’s landscapes, botanical history, and archival collections. Guestrooms & SuitesThe hotel features 31 elegantly appointed guestrooms and suites, each offering king-size beds and floor-to-ceiling windows designed to maximize natural light and provide serene garden views. Select rooms and suites feature private patios, further enhancing the sense of tranquility. The carefully designed interiors boast plush cotton linens, marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs, bespoke Ndebele-patterned throws, and curated South African artwork. Art themes within the rooms include Sea Algae, Trees, Safari, Forest, Explorer, and Leaves, all celebrating South Africa’s diverse biospheres. Local artistic work is also exhibited in public spaces, comprising pieces employing a warm neutral palette enriched by artisanal details and botanical illustrations dating back to the 1800s, many sourced from historical archives. Culinary MasteryCulinary excellence forms the heart of Park Hyatt Johannesburg. The hotel’s Room 32 restaurant – named to play on the property’s 31 rooms – presents guests with an immersive gastronomic journey, showcasing innovative cuisine prepared over live-fire grills, emphasizing seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Guests can witness the artistry of chefs transforming humble ingredients into culinary delights. Complementing this experience, The Lounge provides a sophisticated yet relaxed setting to savor handcrafted cocktails, fine wines, and a carefully selected array of premium cigars. Celebrating South Africa’s rich winemaking heritage, the wine list is guided by a focus on terroir and quality, with selections that reflect the country’s diverse viticultural landscape. Guests can look forward to an elevated oenological experience guided by a dedicated sommelier, offering thoughtful pairings and insight into the provenance and character of each wine. Culturally Inspired WellnessWith the spa set to open soon, wellness experiences at Park Hyatt Johannesburg will invite guests to rejuvenate through exclusive treatments inspired by international and South African traditions. Signature therapies incorporate native ingredients such as rooibos, marula oil and baobab extract, known for their healing and antioxidant properties. Drawing on the holistic principles of local wellness rituals, treatments aim to restore balance and energy while offering a sensory journey that connects guests with the natural richness of the region. The hotel also features a fully equipped fitness center and a heated outdoor pool nestled within beautifully landscaped gardens, offering a tranquil environment amidst the city. Park Hyatt Johannesburg is also proud to collaborate with luxury publisher Assouline to bring iconic Assouline titles, signature candles, and refined design elements to the hotel’s lounge and suites, enriching the atmosphere with a sense of timeless sophistication. Intimate Events & GatheringsAt Park Hyatt Johannesburg, guests can experience the perfect blend of sophistication and functionality for gatherings. The property provides a flexible event space accommodating up to 60 guests, ideal for intimate meetings and elegant celebrations. Whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, or private party, the dedicated hotel team ensures that every detail is meticulously crafted to create unforgettable memories. “The opening of Park Hyatt Johannesburg embodies our commitment to providing exceptional service, care and luxury deeply connected to the city’s rich heritage and vibrant culture,” commented Hamza Farooqui, CEO of Millat Group. “Our aim is to offer an unparalleled experience, blending refined hospitality with authentic South African artistry.” Conveniently located near key cultural attractions, galleries, boutique shops, and acclaimed dining establishments in the city, Park Hyatt Johannesburg is set to become a definitive luxury destination for discerning business and leisure travelers alike.

Millat Group Launches Strategic Collaboration with Discovery Vitality and Pret A Manger

Millat Group is pleased to announce a new collaboration between Pret A Manger and Discovery Vitality, making it easier and more rewarding for Discovery Vitality members to use their Discovery Miles to access fresh food conveniently. Pret A Manger has joined the Vitality Mall, giving Discovery Vitality members even more ways to spend their Discovery Miles on new exciting rewards. For a limited time launch offer, Discovery Vitality members can enjoy a R100 Pret A Manger reward in the Vitality Mall for just Ð500 (R50). Thereafter, The R100 reward will be available for Ð1,000. Redeem your reward at Pret’s existing stores in Rosebank Mall and Melrose Arch, with new locations coming soon as the brand expands across South Africa. “This collaboration represents the best of both worlds making accessible, flavourful, and wholesome food choices more accessible,” says Hamza Farooqui, CEO of Millat Group. “Discovery Vitality is a trusted partner in promoting better living, and we’re proud to be aligned with that mission. Through Pret, we’re offering convenient, delicious, fresh food and through Discovery Vitality, we’re helping more members access it in a rewarding way. This collaboration reflects the power of shared purpose and strategic alignment.” For Discovery Vitality, the collaboration extends its Vitality Mall rewards options, while Pret A Manger brings a globally respected brand with a strong emphasis on natural, freshly prepared food to the South African market. The tie-up reinforces the Millat Group’s vision of aligning its hospitality and food portfolio with leading brands that support smart, modern living. “We’re thrilled to collaborate with Millat Group and Pret A Manger to bring even more rewards to our members. Through the Vitality Mall, we’re continually expanding our network of partners’ and this collaboration is another step in enriching the variety and value of rewards available to our members, aligning with our mission to support better living through smarter everyday decisions, says Celeste Williams, Head of Marketing at Vitality.

Second South African Pret A Manger store features creative talent for unique instore mural

A unique feature of the 2nd South African Pret A Manger store will see the shop having a local creative feel to it courtesy of a graphic design from University of Johannesburg student, Precious Mogoje. Mogoje, a student from the University’s Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture – Department of Graphic Design, saw her design being chosen as the lead design to be displayed alongside Pret’s Emanating Star at the newest Pret A Manger store. The Pret A Manger store at the Rosebank Zone officially opens on Saturday, 31 May, marking the second Pret store to open in South Africa this year. The Millat Group and the Pret A Manger leadership team had reached out to the University of Johannesburg and ran a competition amongst the Graphic Design students for a mural design that would best reflect the essence and culture of Johannesburg. After a successful launch in Melrose Arch, the expansion with the opening of the second Pret shop, follows an enthusiastic response from local customers and marks the next phase in a broader national rollout. Since opening in February, the Melrose Arch store has consistently exceeded expectations. Strong foot traffic, repeat visits, and widespread word-of-mouth have made it clear that South Africans have embraced Pret’s fresh, high-quality food and organic coffee. The store has quickly become a staple for commuters, professionals, and residents seeking fast, delicious meals made with care. Hamza Farooqui, CEO of Millat Group, which holds the master franchise for Pret in South Africa, says the reception has validated their belief in the brand’s local potential. “Melrose Arch confirmed what we hoped, that Pret’s promise of fresh food, ethical sourcing, and warm service truly resonates here. The support has been phenomenal. People have not just come once, they come back, and they bring others with them. It’s become a community space, and that is exactly what we envisioned. Rosebank is the natural next step.” The new store at The Zone is in the heart of Rosebank, one of Johannesburg’s most vibrant and fast-growing urban districts. Adjacent to the Gautrain station and seamlessly connected to retail centres, hotels, offices, and residential developments, The Zone attracts a constant flow of commuters, tourists, students, and shoppers. It is a high-energy, mixed-use node that blends convenience with culture and style, an ideal environment for Pret’s offering of accessible, on-the-go freshness. Pret customers will get exposed to a variety of activations at the Rosebank store this weekend, with the brand showcasing to customers its origins and its freshly made food approach. Free coffee vouchers will be handed out throughout Saturday and Sunday at selected key points in the Rosebank Zone. Pret A Manger’s Rosebank store will mirror the brand’s global approach. Food will be prepared fresh in-store daily, organic coffee will be served with care, and any unsold food will be donated to local charities. Sustainability and community remain central to Pret’s mission, both globally and locally. With more than 700 stores in 21 countries, Pret A Manger is now gaining strong traction in South Africa. Plans for additional locations are already under way as momentum builds.

Hyatt Regency Cape Town’s Megan Morey Wins 2024 ‘Seller of the Year’ Award for EAME Region

Hyatt Regency Cape Town is proud to announce that Sales Manager, Megan Morey, has been named ‘Seller of the Year’ at EAME Kickstart 2025, a prestigious recognition that places her among the top sales professionals across Hyatt’s Europe, Africa, and Middle East region. This award is a testament to Megan’s exceptional ability to drive revenue, foster meaningful client relationships, and contribute to the overall growth of the hotel in an increasingly competitive market. Winning this award is no small feat. The EAME region comprises a vast network of Hyatt properties, and competition among sales teams is intense. Megan was selected based on her ability to exceed aggressive sales targets, particularly in rooms and banqueting, while maintaining the highest standards of client engagement and service delivery. Her ability to balance data-driven strategy with a deep understanding of client needs has set her apart, making her a standout performer not just in South Africa but across the entire region. Megan credits this achievement to the strong culture of support at Hyatt and the partnerships she has built with her clients over the years. “Winning this award is an incredible honour, but more than that, it validates the work we do every day to make Hyatt the first choice for our guests and corporate partners. At the heart of every sale is a relationship and understanding a client’s needs, anticipating challenges, and delivering beyond expectations. That’s what drives me, and that’s what this award represents,” she said. EAME Kickstart 2025, held last week in Barcelona, is more than just an awards ceremony—it is Hyatt’s annual gathering of top executives and sales leaders, where strategies are refined, industry trends are analysed, and the most outstanding contributors are recognized. Since opening in 2021, Hyatt Regency Cape Town has positioned itself as a key player in the city’s business and leisure travel market. In partnership with the Millat Group, the hotel has not only established itself as a premium destination but has also contributed significantly to job creation, skills development, and the broader economic landscape of the Western Cape. Megan’s award brings further prestige to the hotel, reaffirming its status as a flagship property within Hyatt’s African portfolio and strengthening its reputation as a go-to venue for both corporate and private events. Hyatt Regency Cape Town GM, Gallo Shanker, emphasized the broader significance of Megan’s win, stating: “Megan’s success is not just about numbers; it’s about leadership, resilience, and a deep commitment to service. She represents everything we strive for at Hyatt—excellence, innovation, and relationship-building. This award is not only well deserved, but it also signals to the industry that South Africa has some of the best hospitality talent in the world. We are proud to have Megan as part of our team, and we look forward to seeing her continue to set new benchmarks in sales and client service.” Sales in the hospitality industry go beyond simply meeting targets. At a time when guest expectations are higher than ever, the ability to create tailored experiences, build trust with clients, and deliver consistently high-quality service is what truly defines success. This recognition is a significant milestone for Hyatt Regency Cape Town and underscores Hyatt’s commitment to nurturing talent, celebrating achievements, and continuously raising the bar for excellence. Looking ahead, Hyatt Hotels South Africa and the Millat Group remains focused on developing world-class hospitality professionals, strengthening its presence in South Africa, and building on this success for years to come.

Millat Group and Hyatt Hotels South Africa Partner with Gift of the Givers to Drive Meaningful Change through Hospitality

Guided by their core principle of empowering communities, Global Hospitality group, Millat, and Hyatt Hotels South Africa have extended their partnership with internationally renowned humanitarian organization, Gift of the Givers. The partnership, initially launched last year with the Cape Malay Buffet at 126 Café at Hyatt Regency Cape Town, now extends to the Iftar buffet and Eid Lunch across all three Hyatt Hotels in South Africa with 10% of food revenue from these events donated to Gift of the Givers to support community upliftment. In addition, organizations and individuals hosting conferences, events or celebrations at Hyatt Hotels can also contribute to meaningful change. Hyatt South Africa and the Millat Group will also donate 10% of all food revenue from alternative dining experiences to Gift of the Givers. The alternative dining experiences include: Experiential dinners at Urchin Restaurant at the Hyatt Regency Cape Town Tree House and Outdoor dinner experiences at Hyatt House Sandton 5th Floor Rooftop dining experiences at Hyatt House Rosebank Cape Malay Buffet at 126 Café at Hyatt Regency Cape Town   Gift of the Givers is Africa’s largest disaster response organization, providing life-saving humanitarian aid, from disaster relief and hunger alleviation to healthcare and education support. Operating globally, they deliver hope and assistance to communities in need, regardless of race, religion, or political affiliation. According to Hamza Farooqui, CEO of Millat Group, partnerships like these are essential, particularly in unprecedented times of global conflict and upheaval. “The impact that Gift of the Givers has had on emergency aid across the globe is immeasurable,” says Farooqui. “Their presence in conflict zones and disaster-hit areas is a remarkable example of community, solidarity, and heroism,” he adds. “As their impact continues to grow, we’re exceptionally proud to be able to support their efforts and align our visions toward positive change beyond the hospitality industry.” The existing partnership between the organizations was established in 2024 and began with 10% of proceeds from 126 Café’s Cape Malay Buffet going towards the NGO. Every weekend the buffet serves traditional Cape Malay cuisine and tantalizing dishes with a Cape Malay twist for R350 per person and R150 for children under 12. Through this initiative, guests take part in an exceptional culinary experience while showing support for the Gift of the Givers’ mission to provide global humanitarian relief. The Iftar Buffet and Eid Lunch will now also form part of this partnership. Dr Imtiaz Sooliman Founder of Gift of the Givers says: “Partnerships like this are a testament to what can be accomplished when compassion and collaboration come together for a common purpose. At Gift of the Givers, we believe that every act of giving, no matter how small, has the power to create ripples of change that touch countless lives. Through the support of Millat Group and Hyatt Hotels South Africa, every celebration held under their banner becomes a beacon of hope, a moment where joy is shared, and lives are transformed. It is through such meaningful alliances that we are reminded of the boundless potential of shared humanity and the extraordinary impact we can achieve when we work together to uplift those in need.” Millat’s Farooqui adds: “Millat are leaders in the global hospitality sector, built on an ethos of changing lives through hospitality. We extend our gratitude to Gift of the Givers for this opportunity, and we hope that our guests see the immense value of transforming their celebrations and gatherings into acts of giving.” The partnership extends to the following hotels in the portfolio: Hyatt Regency Cape Town Hyatt House Johannesburg Sandton Hyatt House Johannesburg Rosebank

Pret South Africa’s Team Masters the Art of Hospitality

Behind every high-quality brand is a team that embodies its values, and Pret A Manger South Africa is no exception. To ensure an authentic Pret experience, a dedicated South African team embarked on an intensive six-week training program in Hong Kong, where they immersed themselves in the brand’s operations. The training took place ahead of last week’s opening of the first African and South African Pret A Manager shop, in Melrose Arch, Johannesburg. A carefully selected group of individuals, including General Managers, Assistant Managers, Team Leaders, Baristas, and Chefs, spent time in Pret’s core Hong Kong shops, working alongside seasoned Pret professionals to master everything from kitchen operations and food preparation to Barista skills and shop management. They learned not only how to craft the perfect coffee or assemble a signature Pret sandwich but also how to create the warm, welcoming customer experience that the brand is known for. For Hamza Farooqui, CEO of the Millat Group and responsible for bringing the brand to South Africa this investment in training was non-negotiable. “At Pret, we don’t just serve food—we create experiences. To bring the magic of Pret to South Africa, we needed our team to train with the best, learning firsthand what it takes to maintain the highest standards in service and quality,” he explains. During their time in Hong Kong, the South African team honed their Barista skills, learned the intricacies of Pret’s freshly made menu, and gained leadership insights that will help them seamlessly run the new shop in Johannesburg. More than just a training exercise, this experience served as an initiation into the Pret culture, ensuring that from day one, customers in South Africa will enjoy the same exceptional service, quality, and efficiency that have made Pret a global success. Pret’s MD for Asia, Eira Jarvis, expressed her satisfaction following the conclusion of the training program. “At Pret, our passionate people are at the heart of everything we do. As our founder said: you can’t hire someone who can make sandwiches and teach them to be passionate, so we hire passionate people and teach them to make sandwiches. This intensive programme in Hong Kong was about more than just learning the technical skills; it was about immersing our South African team in the Pret culture, ensuring they return with the confidence and expertise to deliver an authentic Pret experience. We enjoyed working with the so much and are incredibly proud of their dedication. We can’t wait for South African customers to experience the warmth, energy, and quality that make Pret so special,” said Jarvis. With the team now back on home soil and ready to implement what they have learned; the stage is set for them to showcase their skills and not only introduce South Africans to a globally loved brand, but also raise the bar for café culture in the country.

Pret A Manger Brings a Proud Mzansi Twist to its Menu

Pret A Manger is known for its globally recognised menu of freshly made sandwiches, wraps, and salads, and its South African debut will bring with it something distinctly local—a Mzansi twist designed to honour the country’s rich and diverse culinary heritage. From day one, customers will be able to enjoy South African-inspired menu items crafted with the same commitment to high-quality ingredients that defines Pret worldwide. Signature offerings include the Soutvleis Sandwich, featuring traditional cured meat on Pret’s signature granary bread, and the Chakalaka Chicken Wrap, inspired by the bold and spicy flavours of chakalaka. For those craving something warm and comforting, the Braaibroodjie Toastie offers a South African take on Pret’s classic grilled sandwiches, infused with smoky braai flavours. Breakfast lovers will have the chance to start their day with the Boerie Breakfast Bowl, a hearty meal built around South Africa’s beloved boerewors, while those with a sweet tooth can indulge in Pret’s Milk Tart Temptation Pot, a dessert inspired by the country’s famous milk tart. Another standout treat is the Peppermint Crisp Pot, a rich and indulgent dessert that pays tribute to the beloved Peppermint Crisp tart, a South African classic. Despite these exciting locally inspired dishes, the menu will still feature Pret’s global favourites, from freshly prepared baguettes and granary sandwiches to smoothies and organic coffees. The balance of international favourites with local-inspired exclusives ensures that South Africans get to enjoy the best of both worlds—classic Pret staples alongside flavours that feel like home. Millat Group CEO Hamza Farooqui believes that this approach is key to Pret’s longterm success in the South African market. “In bringing the brand to the country we wanted to ensure that while South Africans get to experience the global Pret brand, they also find flavours that resonate with them. Our menu has been carefully curated to celebrate the delicious flavours of South African cuisine while staying true to Pret’s commitment to freshly prepared food made with high-quality ingredients”, he says. Another critical aspect of Pret’s South African journey is its commitment to sourcing locally. Every ingredient has been carefully selected from trusted local suppliers, ensuring that not only is the food freshly delivered but that Pret is also supporting the local economy. “We take great pride in partnering with local suppliers to bring our customers the highest quality ingredients while also uplifting the communities we operate in,” adds Farooqui. Beyond its menu, Pret A Manger South Africa will also uphold the brand’s strong values, ensuring that any unsold food is donated daily to those in need. This initiative aligns with Pret’s global ethos of minimising waste and maximising community impact. As the excitement builds for Pret’s arrival in Johannesburg, customers can look forward to a menu that is both familiar and refreshingly new, a space that is warm and welcoming, and a brand that is ready to leave a lasting impact on South Africa’s food scene. The countdown has begun, and the Pret A Manger experience is here. Whether it’s a morning organic coffee, a freshly made lunch, or an indulgent dessert, South Africans are about to discover what makes Pret one of the world’s most beloved food brands. The first Pret A Manger store opens in Melrose Arch in Johannesburg on Friday, 14 February 2025.

Pret A Manger’s Arrival in South Africa Heralds a New Chapter for Freshly Prepared, Quality Food

Johannesburg is set to welcome a globally beloved brand as Pret A Manger prepares to open its first shops in Melrose Arch on 14th February 2025, followed by The Zone in Rosebank later this year. This marks a significant milestone, not just for the brand but for South African food lovers eager to experience Pret’s freshly made meals and organic coffee. This expansion, spearheaded by the Millat Group, brings a brand renowned for its quality, sustainability, and ethical food sourcing into a market that appreciates freshly prepared, wholesome food. Hamza Farooqui, CEO of Millat Group, is optimistic about the launch, emphasizing that South Africans have a deep appreciation for high-quality coffee and food made with care. “We are incredibly excited to bring Pret A Manger to South Africa. This is not just about opening new shops; it’s about introducing an entirely new café culture—one that revolves around freshly handmade food and a commitment to quality.” Since its humble beginnings in London in 1986, Pret A Manger has grown into a global brand with over 700 shops across 20 markets. The South African expansion represents another step in its journey—one that stays true to the brand’s ethos of offering freshly prepared food, made in shop kitchens every day. Pret’s menu features a diverse selection of sandwiches, wraps, salads, and snacks, alongside an extensive range of organic coffees and teas. The brand is also deeply committed to social impact, ensuring that any unsold food at the end of each day is donated to local charities, reinforcing its promise to the community. Pano Christou, CEO of Pret A Manger, said:“This opening is an important step in Pret’s global journey. South Africa’s dynamic food culture and vibrant community made Johannesburg the perfect location for our first shop on the continent. We’re thrilled to bring a touch of Pret to this incredible city while incorporating South African flavors into our menu.” As the opening date draws closer, anticipation is building. Customers will soon have the chance to experience the unmistakable Pret atmosphere, where the smell of freshly baked croissants blends with the rich aroma of organic coffee, and where every bite tells a story of quality and attention to detail.