G Hotel Gurney in Penang is reporting a 20 per cent year-to-date increase in the meetings and conference segment this year, thanks to its recent refurbishment and participation in Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau’s Industry Partner Programme.
During the RM35 million (US$8.9 million) refurbishment which was completed in July 2017, the hotel upgraded its meeting facilities which now sport improved Wi-Fi speed, better sound systems, mood lighting and an LED screen backdrop in the grand ballroom. Aside from the ballroom which can accommodate up to 700 people theatre-style, the hotel also has 10 function rooms fitted with large glass windows that allow in natural daylight.
Annie Wong, the hotel’s marketing and communications manager, told TTGmice that the 312-key hotel is seeing increased demand for the business events sector from Singapore, Hong Kong, China, India and the UK.
Meanwhile, local demand is driven by companies based in Penang, predominantly from the pharmaceutical, oil and gas, financial institutions and insurance companies.
Wong shared: “Many companies are looking for venues to hold their teambuilding, workshops and product launches. We are a good option because of our location in the heart of the city, and (the hotel is) also within walking distance to Gurney Drive, famed for its large variety of local street food.”
Moving forward, G Hotel Gurney is looking into setting up live action stations during coffee breaks, as well as offering a reward scheme to companies that hold events there.
Wong also believes that the hotel’s good performance is a result of its participation in PCEB’s Industry Partner Programme which allows it to further tap into the events segment.
“The programme provides opportunities for us to attend roadshows organised by PCEB as well as build a stronger network with local and international media organisations,” shared Wong.
