How Singapore’s Ascott grew from its first serviced residence into a global hospitality business

Singapore's Ascott Limited has transformed from a single serviced residence in 1984 to a global hospitality business with over 1,000 properties across 40 countries. Originally, hotel rooms served as brief resting places between work and leisure. However, the rise of remote work and digital nomadism led to increased demand for functional spaces with desks, kitchens, and dining areas.

Ascott recognized this shift early, focusing on flexibility and residential comfort. Today, Ascott's portfolio includes hotels, serviced residences, social-living properties, and branded residences, all designed to cater to travelers' evolving needs. The company's asset-light approach, managing and franchising properties instead of owning them directly, has allowed it to scale globally while maintaining a unique perspective.

Ascott's properties are often situated in neighborhood settings, offering guests opportunities to experience local life and culture. By providing amenities like kitchens, laundry facilities, and easily accessible neighborhood experiences, Ascott has redefined luxury hospitality as a sense of immersion rather than simply providing lavish amenities.

This shift has made Ascott relevant to a broader audience, including holidaymakers, young families, and remote workers. The company's experiences, such as neighborhood-led programming and curated events through its loyalty program, further enhance the guest experience, creating lasting memories beyond the hotel stay.