Hotel 2 Fevrier stands as one of West Africa’s premier establishments, where excellence is more than an aspiration; it is a steadfast commitment. The hotel’s success rests upon several key factors: continuous staff training, meticulous maintenance standards, and effective management strategies.
In an exclusive interview with Lucky Onoriode George, Thomas Noll, the General Manager of Hotel 2 Fevrier, delves into how the hotel navigates the complexities of operating a top-tier hospitality business in today’s environment. He shares insights on how they build a skilled team, maintain facilities to meet the highest standards, and manage challenges such as inconsistent power supply, all while catering to the evolving needs of business travellers. A proud winner of European Hotelier of the Year in 2009 from the European Hotel Managers Association, Noll offers a comprehensive view of the strategies that keep the hotel at the forefront of the hospitality industry.
The Dominance of the Hospitality Sector in West Africa
When asked about the role of hospitality in West Africa, particularly Nigeria, Noll observes that Togo’s neighbours often dominate the region’s tourism share. However, he stresses that Togo has carved a unique niche, earning a reputation as the “Switzerland of West Africa” due to its stability, safety, and neutrality. This has made the country a prime location for international events hosted by organisations such as the World Bank, the United Nations, and various Non-Governmental Organisations [NGOs].
“It is not a leisure-driven business here, but rather a corporate one, with Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions [MICE] forming the backbone of our operations,” Noll explains. “In the future, we aim to capture a larger share of leisure tourism by collaborating with government and institutions to develop offerings that go beyond just accommodation, but also activities that create memorable experiences for visitors.”
A Legacy of Excellence: 45 Years of Hotel 2 Fevrier
Looking back at the hotel’s history, Noll reveals that Hotel 2 Fevrier will celebrate its Golden Jubilee in just five years. He reflects on the foresight of the original builder, who designed the hotel to accommodate top-level VIPs, including heads of state, with an impressive 32 presidential suites. With the hotel’s unique capacity to host large conferences and meetings. Its 9 meeting rooms can accommodate up to 1,854 people, Noll plans a future renovation to bring the property into the next era.
“The structure of this property was ahead of its time,” Noll says, noting that the hotel’s 320 rooms were designed with a sense of permanence that he believes will ensure the building stands for generations. “I am working with an international designer on a revamp to introduce new products and prepare for our 50-year anniversary.”
Staff Management and Challenges in Hospitality
Managing a hotel of this size presents numerous challenges, particularly when it comes to staff. For Noll, who has been in the hospitality industry for over 45 years, it is all about maintaining a balance between managing investors, customers, employees, and suppliers. He believes that a motivated, well-trained staff is key to ensuring exceptional service, and the hotel places a significant emphasis on staff well-being, offering a reward system and prioritising mental and recreational activities.
“We have male and female football teams, and we take the mental and recreational life of our staff very seriously,” he adds. “A good smile is the foundation of great service, and it takes time and effort to cultivate a service culture.”
Maintenance and Operational Costs: The Daily Challenges
Operating a 45-year-old hotel comes with its own set of challenges, particularly around maintenance. Noll draws a comparison between running a hotel and maintaining a private home, noting that each day brings a new challenge. Preventative maintenance is key to ensuring the hotel operates smoothly, and Noll likens the hotel to a cruise ship where all systems must be in constant working order.
He also points out that energy costs, which are a significant operational expense in Togo due to the country’s reliance on external power sources, are one of the main factors driving up the cost of staying in West African hotels. However, he is optimistic that a shift to solar energy will help reduce costs by 20%.
Pricing in West Africa: Why Hotels Are Expensive
West African hotels, particularly in Togo, are often more expensive than those in places like Egypt, according to Noll. He explains that this is due to a lack of competition in the region and the high operational costs. However, he adds that Togo’s room rates are still more affordable than those in neighbouring countries like Benin and Côte d’Ivoire, which makes it an attractive option for large conferences and meetings.
Togo’s Tourism Future: Repositioning for Leisure Travellers
While Togo has long been known for its corporate tourism, the country is now focusing on attracting leisure travellers. Noll believes that Togo can build a thriving tourism sector by leveraging its rich cultural heritage and developing unique products based around this strength. He points to the coastal town of Aneho, known for its historical significance in trade and missionary work, as a potential tourism hub.
“The country is ready for both regular leisure travellers and those willing to spend more for luxury experiences,” Noll says. “Togo can develop its tourism products in line with global standards, and I’m confident that in the coming years, the country will become an exciting destination for both Togolese and international visitors.”
Attracting Nigerian Tourists
With Nigeria being the largest market in Africa, Noll is keen to tailor offerings to attract Nigerian tourists. “We are working with the tourism ministry to make it easier for Nigerians and Ghanaians to visit Togo,” he says. “A getaway from the hustle and bustle of Lagos could appeal to the younger, successful demographic looking for short vacations and weekend breaks.”