Belmond is taking a unique and contrarian approach to high-end hospitality by focusing on what they call “slow luxury.” This philosophy emphasizes luxury craftsmanship, valuing time, and experiential richness. Belmond aims to create experiences that are deliberate, connected with its history, and celebrate the brand’s heritage and values. The brand’s legendary trains, like the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, serve as moving monuments that elevate the overall brand portfolio and signify Belmond’s broader ambitions.
Unlike many luxury brands driven solely by revenue numbers, Belmond’s investor, LVMH, prioritizes guest experience metrics and customer loyalty. This approach allows Belmond to focus on excellence and the softer, intangible aspects of luxury that truly resonate with customers. This reduced commercial pressure enables the brand to build a strong reputation for quality and consistency, even as they expand their portfolio of properties. By owning many of its properties, Belmond can ensure a high level of detail and craftsmanship in its renovation and build-out projects, preserving the soul of each structure.
Belmond empowers its general managers to make decisions independently and adapt to the nuances of their clientele, creating a culture of pride, genuine care, and exceptional service. This emphasis on empowering teams on the ground has a noticeable impact on guest experiences and contributes to the brand’s reputation for excellence. Belmond also integrates art and culture into its properties through partnerships and collaborations with artists like French artist JR. The brand’s private carriage on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, L’Observatoire, is an example of how Belmond combines luxury with artistic impression in a unique and memorable way.
In a landscape where many high-end hospitality options lack depth and soul, Belmond stands out for its commitment to slow luxury, heritage, and craftsmanship. With patient capital, empowered general managers, and a focus on authenticity and human connection, Belmond aims to build an iconic and lasting brand that resonates with sophisticated luxury consumers. By prioritizing quality, guest experience, and a connection to culture, Belmond sets itself apart in the competitive luxury hospitality industry. The brand’s dedication to celebrating luxury craftsmanship, valuing time, and creating meaningful experiences positions it as a leader in the pursuit of authentic, personalized luxury.
