From launching the world’s first independent airport lounge, to expanding into a full ecosystem of airport hospitality services, PPG’s visionary outlook for future growth is driven by technology, sustainability, and people.
Plaza Premium Group (PPG), the company that created the world’s first independent airport lounge, is marking its 25th anniversary in 2023. The unprecedented concept was conceived when founder and CEO Song Hoi-See identified the need for a place where travelers not flying in premium class could relax, unwind, and enhance their productivity.
Mr. Song describes the past quarter-century as a “remarkable journey.” The visionary Malaysian entrepreneur reflects how the first lounges in Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur have blossomed into a full ecosystem of airport hospitality services spanning 13 brands and operations in over 250 locations worldwide. His commitment to excellence has resulted in PPG winning seven consecutive “World’s Best Independent Airport Lounge” awards by Skytrax since 2016.
At its birthplace, Hong Kong International Airport, PPG inaugurated the opening of ‘Intervals’ on August 18, an upmarket cocktail bar sitting at the vantage point of the new Sky Bridge. Intervals offers unique vistas for travelers who can order from a tailored menu of ‘flight of cocktails’, paired with its signature pinchos, depending on the intervals of time they have before boarding.
Over the past 25 years, PPG continuously evolved as a company to meet the ever-changing needs of travelers. Through constant innovation and reinvention, it aims to make every journey more seamless and rewarding.
Today, PPG offers a comprehensive range of 360-degree hospitality services, including terminal hotels, dining concepts, airport concierge services, a membership program, and a digital travel experience platform. Following the launch Intervals at the Hong Kong International Airport, the group will be unveiling a series of elevated in-lounge experiences at select locations across its global network.
“After three difficult years for the travel and hospitality industry, we are elated to be back to serving travelers, who are understandably eager to make up for lost time and experiences. More than ever, PPG is committed to our mission to Make Travel Better, and we have put ourselves into our guests’ shoes to bring on additional services to create joyful journeys.”
The second generation of Plaza Premium Group, Jonathan Song – Global Director of Business Development, and Mei Mei Song – Director of Global Brands and Transformation, are on a mission to drive new phases of growth while upholding the great legacy of the Song Family. As PPG moves beyond its original identity as an airport lounge operator, the company has adopted three guiding pillars: technology, sustainability, and people.
Technology
PPG fully embraces the value of transformation and the opportunities presented by the digital age with the introduction of two innovative solutions – OneTECO (Travel Experience Ecosystem) and Smart Traveller, which revolutionize the airport journey with cutting-edge technology.
OneTECO is an all-in-one platform that simplifies the booking process for both business operators and consumers. It includes an omnichannel booking engine that enables worldwide sales and distribution, a customer engagement center with customer profiling and personalization capabilities, and a data analysis system. By leveraging customer and operational data from various touchpoints, the company is able to implement comprehensive insights-driven commercial and operational strategies and develop personalized offerings.
Smart Traveller is PPG’s own global airport membership program, giving every traveler a reason to reward themselves effortlessly at every interaction when on the go. This program seamlessly connects all Plaza Premium Group airport hospitality offerings with an extensive network of nonPPG affiliates through a comprehensive point reward system. It also facilitates point conversion with partnered reward programs, further enhancing the value and flexibility for its members.
Sustainability
PPG is deeply committed to making a positive impact on the planet and in local communities by integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices throughout its business operations to enhance travel experiences. The group actively reduces its environmental footprint, aiming for a net-zero impact through initiatives such as waste reduction, energy-saving measures, and sustainable procurement. It scrutinizes every aspect of the product and supply chain experience, from building material selection, to inclusive spaces, and to sustainable food options.
PPG also recognizes the importance of collaborating with key stakeholders in the industry, particularly airports, to foster meaningful conversations and drive impactful change in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Additionally, PPG actively encourages its employees to participate in sustainability-focused CSR activities. These initiatives aim to further engage employees in contributing to sustainable practices and making a positive difference in their communities and the planet.
People
At the heart of PPG’s business are its people, who are considered the company’s most valuable asset. PPG has more than 3,500 employees in more than 50 cities, representing a richly diverse workforce. Putting people first has always been and will continue to be a top priority for PPG.
Respect for diverse cultures is what binds people together, with a commitment to embracing diversity, equality, and inclusion in its people strategy, PPG cultivates a cohesive team that thrives on the richness of cultural backgrounds and experiences.
All the interactions are built upon a dedication to equality, engagement, and understanding, this commitment extends from its employees to its valued customers and partners. With a culturecentered approach, PPG is shaping a promising future in the travel industry. Celebrating diversity and differences, it strives to create an environment where all individuals feel a profound sense of belonging.
This article was originally published by Plaza Premium Group.
