The Tanoa Hotel Group is amplifying its efforts to capitalize on the growing sports tourism market, aiming to diversify its offerings in Fiji and neighboring regions. In a recent interview with Fiji One News, Narend Kumar, the Area General Manager for Tanoa Hotels in Fiji, discussed how the group is committed to broadening its customer base beyond the traditional hospitality sector. “We don’t focus on one or two segments — we have a variety of segments in the basket,” he stated, mentioning that leisure and corporate travelers, along with conferencing and sports, are central to their strategy.
A key element of this initiative is Tanoa’s new partnership with the Fijian Drua rugby franchise, underlining the company’s determination to align with significant local sporting events. Kumar remarked, “We have ventured into sports; as you know, we have partnered with the Fijian Drua, and sporting for us is key.”
The organization is progressing towards the development of sports tourism infrastructure, including plans for a rugby training field at Tanoa International. This facility aims to serve both professional teams and visiting athletes. Kumar added, “We are trying to do a rugby field in Tanoa International where we would like to attract all teams to come and train.”
This initiative comes at an opportune moment as international interest in Fiji’s rugby scene, particularly surrounding the Drua, continues to rise. This presents Tanoa with a unique opportunity to tap into the growing interest in Fijian rugby culture, as Kumar noted, “If you look at it, Tanoa is a small locally owned brand and has grown wider.”
The group perceives sports tourism as more than just a lucrative venture; it aims to elevate a local hospitality brand into the global arena by capitalizing on Fiji’s deep-rooted passion for rugby. Tanoa’s business strategy reflects a broader trend within Fiji’s tourism sector, where sports, leisure, and business travel are increasingly intertwined. Local hotel groups are actively seeking to enhance their competitiveness in the regional market.
Tanoa Hotel Group’s proactive strategy signals a promising commitment to enhancing tourism in Fiji, which bodes well for the hospitality industry as it adapts to changing market dynamics. The intersection of sports and travel offers significant potential for growth, reflecting a vibrant and evolving sector that is poised for continued success.