MINOR International (Mint) has secured a key investment in Sri Lanka, acquiring an 80.1 per cent share in the Sri Lankan company Cyprea Lanka whose assets comprise the Kani Lanka Resort & Spa, Kalutara, and an adjacent plot of land primed for the development of the Anantara brand. The total acquisition and development investment is estimated at $22 million.
Mint leads the way with key investments in Sri Lanka since its first foray into the market in 2007 with a 19.9 per cent acquisition of Serendib Hotels. The significant new investment serves to build upon the company’s existing presence in Sri Lanka, with Mint’s interest in Cyprea further strengthened by the fact that its Sri Lankan business partner Serendib has acquired the remaining 19.9 per cent share.
Mint will oversee the operation of the Kani Lanka Resort & Spa as part of the company’s ever-increasing portfolio of global properties. In addition this venture creates an ideal opportunity to introduce an Anantara-branded property to Sri Lanka by developing the adjacent prime beachfront location. Upholding Anantara’s brand pillars of luxurious five-star journeys steeped in the history, culture and breathtaking natural surrounds of each property’s locale, guests of the future Anantara property are poised to benefit from the compelling destination attractions in the area.
Nestling in the picturesque confluence of the majestic Kalu Ganga River and vast Indian Ocean along the south west coast of Sri Lanka, Kani Lanka Resort & Spa resides 76 km from the international airport, and 10 minutes from the historical town of Kalutara.
The resort itself, originally designed by a French architect, has been re-designed by renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa. Blending colonial charm and authentic Sri Lankan culture with state of the art comforts, 99 superior rooms and six suites boast spectacular ocean, river and garden views from private balconies or patios.
William Heinecke, chairman and CEO of Minor International commented: “We are delighted with this new acquisition on many levels. Firstly the investment enriches our foothold in Sri Lanka, a destination which we view as offering immense potential. Moreover the specific location of the pending Anantara property offers a perfect fit with the brand’s promise of immersing story-collecting travellers in the world’s most enchanting settings through unique discovery experiences, underpinned by true connoisseurship and luxurious, heartfelt hospitality.