Four Seasons Goes to Paris
Four Seasons Goes to Paris Case Study
Brad Knudsen
Dr. Mill
May 29, 2012
1) What was good/bad about the way Four Seasons entered the French/Paris market? Why do you say this?
Four Seasons is a globally renowned hotel company recognized for its luxurious diversity, and emphasis on customized service. The company has 270 core worldwide operating standards that are congruent across all properties. However, along with their globally uniform standards, they do an excellent job of integrating the local culture into each property. For example, a guest will always receive a message on time, have clean room, and enjoy a great meal. But an Italian concierge has his own style and flair, while in Turkey or Egypt, the guest will experience different hospitality. Moreover, the Four Seasons philosophy is built around "The Golden Rule," which stipulates that one should treat others as one would wish to be treated. The founder and CEO Isadore Sharp states, "The Golden Rule is the key to the success of the firm." All of these aspects that have garnered the company's success were integral in entering the French/Paris market. I strongly support the strategy used by Four Seasons in taking over the luxurious F.S. George V 'palace' hotel in Paris, France. There were many obstacles present when entering this market, but the company made innovative leaps and bounds to overcome said obstacles. The initial challenge was to preserve the soul of the legendary, almost mythical George V Hotel while rebuilding it for contemporary travelers. This was very important because it was essential for them to maintain the French essence and honor of the immaculate property. For example the interior designer, Pierre-Yves Rochon, noted, "I would like guests rediscovering the hotel to think that I had not changed a thing - and, at the same time, to notice how much better they feel within its walls." Also, because the designer was French, Barbara Talbott said this decision,
Brad Knudsen
Dr. Mill
May 29, 2012
1) What was good/bad about the way Four Seasons entered the French/Paris market? Why do you say this?
Four Seasons is a globally renowned hotel company recognized for its luxurious diversity, and emphasis on customized service. The company has 270 core worldwide operating standards that are congruent across all properties. However, along with their globally uniform standards, they do an excellent job of integrating the local culture into each property. For example, a guest will always receive a message on time, have clean room, and enjoy a great meal. But an Italian concierge has his own style and flair, while in Turkey or Egypt, the guest will experience different hospitality. Moreover, the Four Seasons philosophy is built around "The Golden Rule," which stipulates that one should treat others as one would wish to be treated. The founder and CEO Isadore Sharp states, "The Golden Rule is the key to the success of the firm." All of these aspects that have garnered the company's success were integral in entering the French/Paris market. I strongly support the strategy used by Four Seasons in taking over the luxurious F.S. George V 'palace' hotel in Paris, France. There were many obstacles present when entering this market, but the company made innovative leaps and bounds to overcome said obstacles. The initial challenge was to preserve the soul of the legendary, almost mythical George V Hotel while rebuilding it for contemporary travelers. This was very important because it was essential for them to maintain the French essence and honor of the immaculate property. For example the interior designer, Pierre-Yves Rochon, noted, "I would like guests rediscovering the hotel to think that I had not changed a thing - and, at the same time, to notice how much better they feel within its walls." Also, because the designer was French, Barbara Talbott said this decision,