Windhoek
Chairperson of the Windhoek Country Club Resort and Casino Board of Directors, Sven Thieme, yesterday expressed his satisfaction with the 2014/15 financial results of the company and thanked all stakeholders for their valued contribution.
“While we might not have had a bumper year like the previous one, we nevertheless look back at great results. These include hotel turnover which increased by 13 percent year-on-year with an exceptional performance by the food and beverage department, which increased turnover by 21 percent. This is despite that the previous year included the revenue of the COP11 conference, as well as major repairs and maintenance expenses that we incurred.”
The revenue increased to N$157 million, while room revenues rose by 7 percent and the average room rate by 10 percent. Gross margins were N$83 million on the back of increased operational costs, mainly on the hotel side because of incremental turnover and also cost of sales. Gross operating profits of N$44 million were down on the previous record period of N$53 million.
Thieme highlighted a few more activities at the resort, which included the baking of the 180kg Independence Cake, the President’s inauguration as well as the wedding reception of the President and the First Lady, which he said was an immense honour and privilege for WCCR.
“Further highlights on our events calendar included the sustainable tourism conference and the women’s soccer – CAF – cup, which proves that we are able to host big events successfully.”
He also spoke about some of the hospitality trends and challenges and urged the industry to keep up with trends – such as the internet and its opportunities – as well as ensuring that customer service and training of staff remain a priority.
He lamented the fact that as a country Namibia remains unable to attract large international conventions, mainly due to the lack of a world-class convention centre.
“Clearly the industry needs to make strides towards its MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions and events) facilities if it has any hope of becoming a contender for this lucrative business segment in the years to come,” warned Thieme.
In 2016 the Windhoek Country Club Resort and Casino was scheduled to embark on the refurbishment and upliftment of the rooms, casino, public areas, bathrooms and cocktail bar.