HOTELS : Why did Baillie Lodges acquire Tierra Hotels ? Michael Moret-Lalli : This partnership is a natural fit for both companies and teams , with both brands sharing a vision for delivering exceptional , immersive experiences .
The Baillie Lodges and Tierra collections both provide access to incredible natural attractions in extraordinary locations , paired with culturally rich experiences and intimate lodges that cater to a small number of guests and place architectural and interior design at the forefront . The properties share a commitment to the sustainability of the natural environment and surrounding communities in which they operate , offering guests an authentic encounter with nature .
H : How did the deal came together ? Relationship between owners ? MML : The new partnership follows a long history of mutual respect and collaboration between the Baillie Lodges team and Tierra Hotels founder Miguel Purcell .
H : Can you share terms of the deal ? MML : The terms of the deal are confidential and were not disclosed .
H : Can you elaborate on the expansion plans for Tierra brand ? Miguel Purcell : Baillie Lodges intends to meaningfully invest in the Tierra properties to ensure they maintain their unique market position as pre-eminent boutique hotels in Chile , with initial planning already underway for a substantial refurbishment of Tierra Atacama in 2024 .
In addition , Baillie Lodges plans to thoughtfully expand the Tierra hotel platform in South America in the years to come , through acquisitions and new greenfield developments .
H : Will Tierra Hotels continue to manage assets for Baillie ? MML : The Purcell family , who launched and developed Tierra Hotels , will continue to retain an ownership stake in the Tierra portfolio and Tierra founder Miguel Purcell will continue to be involved in the role of founder and creative director . A newly appointed general manager , Pablo Lundahl , will lead the Tierra management teams in their Santiago office and across the three lodges . Pablo and the Chile based team will be guided and supported by the Baillie Lodges management team who are based in Australia .
THE TIERRA PORTFOLIO HAS PERFORMED ABOVE EXPECTATION IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS , AND WITH CHILE NOW COMPLETELY OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL VISITORS AND THE SUMMER SEASON OPENING FOR TIERRA PATAGONIA AND TIERRA CHILOE SCHEDULED FOR OCTOBER 1 , 2022 , THERE IS VERY ROBUST DEMAND AND A VERY OPTIMISTIC OUTLOOK FOR THE NEXT YEAR .
– MIGUEL PURCELL
H : Can you elaborate on investment plans for current Tierra assets ? MP : The first priority is to progress plans for a substantial refurbishment of Tierra Atacama , with the intention to complete this project in 2024 . Baillie Lodges also intends to invest in continual improvements in the product and guest experience at Tierra Patagonia and Tierra Chiloé , as well as investment in the Tierra operating platforms and systems .
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