Banyan Tree Holdings, Singapore & Global

Finalist, Global Tourism Business Award 2010

Banyan Tree Holdings Limited is a leading international hospitality brand that manages and develops resorts, hotels and spas. From a single boutique resort in Phuket in 1994, Banyan Tree has grown into a multi-business operator globally. By the time it was listed on the Singapore Stock Exchange in 2006, Banyan Tree had grown to 41 locations outside Thailand, and is projected to increase that number to 85 locations in 30 countries by 2012.
Its innovative business model is based on eight business segments generating multiple income streams that are unique within the hospitality industry. With about 8,000 associates comprising over 50 nationalities, the diversity of its workforce is a key feature of the group and helps to inspire its international outlook. To address its talent development needs, Banyan Tree launched Banyan Tree Management Academy (BTMA) in 2008. This centralised training facility located on the island of Phuket, Thailand, will train future Banyan Tree leaders needed to sustain organisational effectiveness and to meet the demands of its rapid global growth.
The group's vision is inextricably intertwined with its commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainable growth, as it continues to expand globally.

Judges' Verdict
Banyan Tree Holdings Ltd has embraced a sound and holistic sustainable management philosophy right from the founding of the company. The Green Imperative Fund formalises Banyan Tree's corporate social responsibility efforts and raises fund-through-guest donations which the group matches one to one. These donations have built the basis for a wide variety of community outreach projects such as The Seedling Program, which supports and funds education for underprivileged children, or the Banyan Tree Gallery programme that offers a marketing platform to local crafts and goods. Moreover, Banyan Tree is actively involved in marine conservation operating a Banyan Tree Maldives' Marine Laboratory. Through these efforts the Group has vitally contributed to the conservation of the whale shark and the green sea turtle. Under the auspices of its Greening Community Programme, launched in 2007, Banyan Tree has manifested its commitment to ecological and cultural heritage conservation throughout all its properties.

"We are honoured to have been recognised as a finalist for this award. It serves as recognition for Banyan Tree's continued efforts in being an agent of change and in promoting sustainable tourism. As we continue to expand our global presence with new properties in Mexico, China, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and elsewhere, we look forward to exchanging knowledge on environmental conservation with local communities as well as guests, while also sharing with our guests the significant beauty of the culture and heritage of each destination."
Claire Chaing, Chairperson, Banyan Tree Global Foundation