Merx, A Savills Co. a leading name in project management and construction, recently concluded a remarkable endeavour in the Malaysian airport hospitality sector. We are proud to have overseen the successful fitout of six luxury lounges across various terminals and airports for our client SSP Group.
SSP Group is a leading provider of food and beverage services in travel locations worldwide. With a presence in over 35 countries and partnerships with numerous airports, train stations, and motorway service areas, SSP Group is committed to delivering exceptional culinary experiences to travellers on the move.
Elevating Travel Experiences for Clients from All Walks of Life
Each of the six airport lounges was meticulously crafted with a distinct audience and strategic approach in mind. From the luxurious First-Class lounges catering to discerning travellers seeking unparalleled comfort and exclusivity to the Business-Class lounges designed to provide a seamless blend of productivity and relaxation, each space was tailored to meet the unique needs of its clientele. Furthermore, the partnership lounges, catering to credit card partnership customers, were strategically positioned to offer premium amenities and services, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Every lounge was conceptualised to resonate with its intended audience, delivering an exceptional and memorable experience at every touchpoint.
The six lounges were spread across:
- Kuala Lumpur International Airport (Terminal 1) (KLIA T1)
- Kuala Lumpur International Airport (Terminal 2) (KLIA T2)
- Kuching International Airport (Sarawak) (KIA)
- Kota Kinabalu International Airport (Sabah) (KKIA)
Global Lounge First, KLIA T1, Photo Credit: Merx, A Savills Co.
Malaysia’s tourism industry is poised for a remarkable rebound, with projections indicating a surpassing of pre-pandemic levels from 2019. This positive outlook is fueled by a growing sense of optimism, driven by the anticipation of a surge in both leisure and business travellers, who undoubtedly will be eager for new experiences.
The lounges were entrusted with fulfilling the following client requirements:
1. Seamless Travel Experience
Seamless travel experience for guests, including efficient check-in processes, comfortable seating arrangements, and access to premium amenities.
2. Culinary Excellence
Expectation for the lounges to offer prestigious culinary experiences tailored to different guest segments.
3. Brand Consistency
Consistent branding and service quality across all lounges to uphold the client's global image and reputation.
4. Luxury Ambiance
Creation of luxurious ambience and environments that align with the premium nature of the brand and cater to discerning travellers.
5. Innovative Concept
Innovative and aesthetically pleasing concepts that reflect a commitment to sophistication and elegance.
6. Compliance and Safety
Adherence to regulatory standards and safety protocols to ensure the well-being of guests and compliance with airport regulations.
Travel Club Lounge, KLIA T2, Video Credit: Benchmark CYML
Delivering Excellence Across Multiple Lounge Locations
The multi-site project meant overlapping timelines and milestones. In addition, the diverse concepts of each lounge required were matched with different designers and contractors, a decision rooted in the unique demands of each space. Despite the added complexity, our project managers facilitated seamless collaboration among the varying work teams, ensuring alignment and exceptional outcomes across all lounges.
Global Lounge, KLIA T1, Photo Credit: Merx, A Savills Co.
Core Project Management Standards Achieved:
1. Timely Completion
Ensuring the project is completed within specified timelines to minimise disruptions to airport operations.
2. Value Engineering Solutions
Providing value engineering solutions to optimise costs without compromising quality or guest experience.
3. Client Involvement
Offering opportunities for client involvement and feedback throughout the project to ensure alignment with their vision and objectives.
4. Stakeholder Communication
Maintaining regular communication and updates on project progress, milestones, and any potential challenges to uphold transparency and trust among all stakeholders.
5. Risk Management
Implementing effective risk management strategies to anticipate and mitigate potential issues that may arise during the project.
6. Quality Assurance
Ensuring that all aspects of the project meet or exceed the established quality standards to deliver a superior end result.
1. Timely Completion
Ensuring the project is completed within specified timelines to minimise disruptions to airport operations.
2. Value Engineering Solutions
Providing value engineering solutions to optimise costs without compromising quality or guest experience.
3. Client Involvement
Offering opportunities for client involvement and feedback throughout the project to ensure alignment with their vision and objectives.
4. Stakeholder Communication
Maintaining regular communication and updates on project progress, milestones, and any potential challenges to uphold transparency and trust among all stakeholders.
5. Risk Management
Implementing effective risk management strategies to anticipate and mitigate potential issues that may arise during the project.
6. Quality Assurance
Ensuring that all aspects of the project meet or exceed the established quality standards to deliver a superior end result.
Travel Club Lounge, KLIA T1, Photo Credit: Merx, A Savills Co.
Global Lounge & ‘New’ Tenang Spa, KLIA T1, Photo Credit: Merx, A Savills Co.
A New Standard for Luxury Travel in Malaysia
With all lounges delivered on time and on target, the Merx team is delighted to report the client’s satisfaction with the end result. We have confidence that these meticulously crafted spaces will delight guests for years to come, offering travellers a diverse range of options and new experiences to indulge in. We are glad to realise the vision for premium travel experiences for our client SSP Group, setting a new standard for luxury travel in Malaysia’s airports.
For information on the services that Merx provides or to discuss your office requirements please contact:
