News

• 07 June, 2024
• Posted by: EuroCham Cambodia

This week, we interviewed Mr. Julien A. Péchey, general manger of the city's hottest new hotel, Novotel Phnom Penh BKK1. The hotel officially opened for business on Monday, 3 June, and is positioning to become a go-to spot for business travelers and tourists alike. Read on to find out more about the exciting new hotel!

EuroCham: Why has Novotel chosen now to enter the Phnom Penh market?

Mr. Péchey: The choice to enter the market now is a strategic one. There were a variety of factors that needed to be considered, as it is no small undertaking to open a hotel such as Novotel Phnom Penh. One such factor is that in this city, we can see a clear demand for an internationally trusted and established brand to offer a service that supports the midscale hotel market. Novotel came to Phnom Penh to fill the gap between luxurious hotels, 5 stars and many 4 stars or 3 stars local hotel. This gives holidaymakers or business visitors a chance to stay at a quality hotel, that they know will cater to their needs.

It must also be noted that Cambodia, and Phnom Penh are experiencing significant economic growth, leading to an increase in both business and leisure travel, this at a time when FDI is coming in at a solid rate, there is a need in Phnom Penh for quality accommodations for tourists and business guests.

As Phnom Penh and Cambodia experience exponential infrastructural development, it is rising as both a tourist destination and business hub, visitors demand modern amenities and world class convenient service.

EuroCham: Could you tell us about any special events, promotions, or ideas you have planned for the hotel?

Mr. Péchey: From now till the end of the year there will be many events and openings at the Novotel Phnom Penh that will be disseminated to the public as they arise.

At the moment we have several special offers that locals and tourists can take advantage of immediately, including our $15 net business lunch menu at Makila restaurant, our current opening special on room bookings, there are specials on our business meeting rooms, as well as our save more for a longer stay initiative. One of the opening offers for Makila restaurant is 20% off for all food, drinks for lunch and dinner. The good chance to experience Basque French specialize in Phnom Penh. So yes, there are, and will be many opportunities to save on stays, to experience the hotel, and the amenities. We would encourage anyone interested to visit our website, give us a call, or drop past to discuss these offers with our friendly staff.

EuroCham: You just announced Mr. Fernando Taberneros as the executive chef of the hotel. What excites you about what Mr. Tabernero brings to the dining table?

Mr. Péchey: We are excited about Mr. Fernando Taberneros culinary expertise, and what that means for the dining tables of Novotel Phnom Penh BKK1. With his vast experience and passion for food, he is sure to elevate the dining experience for guests with innovative concepts, flavorful dishes, and authentic that showcase local ingredients and international influences.

His commitment to quality, attention to detail, and dedication to providing exceptional dining experiences that make him a valuable addition to the team. We are looking forward to seeing how Mr. Taberneros’ talent and vision will contribute to the culinary scene at Novotel Phnom Penh, creating those memorable experiences for our guests.

EuroCham: What sustainability initiatives or eco-friendly practices have been implemented in the design and operation of NOVOTEL Cambodia?

Mr. Péchey: Novotel Phnom Penh BKK1, has embraced several sustainability initiatives and eco-friendly practices aimed at minimizing its environmental impact and promoting sustainable tourism. These initiatives reflect the Novotel Phnom Penh BKK1’s commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

Energy efficiency is extremely important in a building as big as ours. Novotel Phnom Penh BKK1 employs energy efficient systems and technologies in guest rooms and public areas. These measures help to reduce electricity consumption and lower the overall carbon footprint. We have also implemented water saving practices, while encouraging our guests to also priorities water conservation efforts.

We are tracking the food waste in your cuisine and restaurant with an objective of a constant reduction; most important we set a goal of never go over 50 gram of food waste per cover served. We also priorities local, sustainable produce for our restaurants and services. This is another effort to reduce carbon footprints associated with food transportation.

All wet amenities in guest rooms are produced in Cambodia and refillable dispensers in every guest room for shampoo, bath soap, hand soap and body lotion.

This is just a snapshot of the initiative that Novotel Phnom Penh has dedicated itself to in order to reduce environmental impact, reduce carbon footprint, while providing the highest quality experience for our guests.

EuroCham: How does NOVOTEL plan to integrate and support the local community and culture through its operations?

Mr. Péchey: At Novotel Phnom Penh we are committed to actively integrating and supporting the local community and culture through our operations. We priorities engaging with the local community by working closely with local businesses, suppliers, and artisans to showcase and promote Cambodia, and Cambodian culture and communities.

We are particularly excited about our local suppliers; the quality of their produce is very high. Suppliers such a La Plantation for not only the world famous, appellation controlled Kampot pepper as well as a myriad of other spices. La Ferme de Bassac with locally raised produce, and Wat Chocolate with their delicious locally produced cocoa based products.

Our interior art is created here in Cambodia and reflects the rich artistry of the iconic landmark in Phnom Penh.

Overall, Novotel Phnom Penh BKK1 aims to integrate and support the local Cambodian community and culture through its operations in a comprehensive, and impactful way.

Through partnerships, sourcing practices, artistic and artful additions to the hotel, and community engagement the hotel strives to create a positive impact within the local community, while also providing our guests with an authentic and enriching experience during their stay.