Shangri-La Group Introduces "Shangri-La Cares" Commitment with Enhanced Hygiene Protocols
To welcome back guests in the wake of COVID-19, Shangri-La Group has introduced the Shangri-La Cares commitment, which elevates the rigorous health and safety protocols for all Shangri-La, Kerry, Jen and Traders properties worldwide.
Shangri-La Group has rolled out a pilot program at select hotels, which have been operating throughout April and May, to refine additional health and safety protocols and to expand on already rigorous operational protocols with respect to the pandemic situation. All new procedures and protocols form the cornerstone of an ongoing commitment that will be introduced globally in June 2020 to ensure guests have complete confidence and peace of mind during their stay.
To reinforce the strong culture of health and safety, the Group has enhanced training, learning and development resources for colleagues certified by long-term partner and global hygiene solutions provider, Diversey, a leading global hygiene and cleaning company specializing in developing cleaning and hygiene technologies across industry sectors. Colleagues will also be equipped with personal protective equipment where necessary.
Shangri-La has followed recommendations laid out by the World Health Organization, as well as more stringent local directives where appropriate, to ensure its operational protocols are comprehensive. Concrete measures have been adopted at all hotels and resorts to combat the risk of COVID-19 so that guests can feel safe when staying at or visiting its properties.
Cleanliness Protocols & Procedures:
Increased frequency and full attention to deep cleaning of all high-touch surfaces and areas used by guests throughout the hotels
Use of medical grade sanitizers and disinfectants, which are approved by the United States Environmental Protection Agency
Increased cleaning frequency of air filters and air-conditioner systems to ensure optimal air quality
Safe dining, meetings and events with extra precautions to respect physical distancing and enhanced food safety practices
In addition to health and safety protocol enhancement, Shangri-La Group has updated its cancellation policy and loyalty program status. Shangri-La will waive the cancellation charges regardless of booking channels for all reservations made prior to April 1, 2020, including advanced purchase rates, traveling to any of their hotels globally (exceptions apply for Shangri-La Hotel, Tokyo) before July 31, 2020, if cancelled more than 24 hours prior to arrival date.
“The health and safety of our colleagues and guests is of utmost priority,” says Lim Beng Chee, chief executive officer of Shangri-La Group. “At Shangri-La, it’s in our nature to look after people, to anticipate their needs, and go above and beyond to ensure they have a memorable experience. We remain humble and true to our founding ethos with this commitment that will ensure we do our best to take care of people. To meet new challenges and evolving customer expectations, we are focusing on enhanced hygiene protocols, elevating our standards and safeguarding our guests and colleagues’ well-being. We would like to convey our heartfelt care by creating a safe environment where everyone feels comfortable and trusts in our ability to ensure their safety and health—so that they can focus on moments that truly matter.”
For more information about Shangri-La Cares, visit the website and follow them on Instagram: @shangrilahotels
[Images courtesy of Shangri-La Group]
Kamala Kirk is a University of Southern California graduate and has been an editor/writer for more than a decade. She has written for E! Online, Total Beauty, TravelAge West, Malibu Times Magazine, and many more. She resides in Los Angeles and is a proud pug mom. Follow her on Instagram: @kamalakirk