50 years of Aitken Spence Hotels: A story of sustainability, innovation and success

Aitken Spence Hotels proudly celebrates 50 years of excellence in the hospitality industry. 

Since opening Neptune Hotel in 1974, the company has grown into a global leader, renowned for its commitment to sustainability, quality and innovation. Over the decades, Aitken Spence has expanded its international footprint beyond Sri Lanka, setting new standards across the Maldives, Oman and India, making it the only hotel chain of Sri Lankan origin to have such a wide-reaching presence.

From its beginnings with Neptune Hotel, named after the Roman God of the sea, Aitken Spence made history as the first Sri Lankan hospitality company to invest overseas with the acquisition of Bathala Island Resort in the Maldives in 1994. This pioneering spirit continued as the company expanded into Oman in 2008, India in 2016 and a successful collaboration with RIU Hotels Spain in 2017. These game-changing initiatives have stood the test of time, cementing Aitken Spence’s place as an industry trailblazer.

Today, Aitken Spence Hotels manages 18 properties across Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Oman, and India, totalling 2,629 rooms. The flagship brand, Heritance Hotels & Resorts, is renowned for its architectural excellence, with three properties designed by the legendary Geoffrey Bawa. Notably, Heritance Kandalama became the first LEED-certified hotel outside the United States and the first Green Globe certified hotel in South Asia. It remains one of the most awarded hotels globally, reflecting Aitken Spence’s innovative approach to blending design, nature and sustainability.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of Aitken Spence’s operations. From managing a 211-acre conservation forest at Heritance Kandalama, which supports rich biodiversity, to eliminating single-use plastics across all resorts in the Maldives, the company consistently demonstrates its commitment to environmental responsibility. These initiatives are benchmarks within the industry, underscoring Aitken Spence’s leadership in sustainability. Additionally, the company’s dedication to nurturing talent is evident through its hotel schools at Heritance Kandalama and Heritance Ahungalla, ensuring that future generations of hospitality professionals are equipped to thrive.

As Aitken Spence Hotels reflects on its 50-year journey, this milestone serves as a springboard to motivate employees and inspire a renewed focus on the future of hospitality. 

“Reaching this milestone is a moment of pride and reflection,” remarked Aitken Spence Hotel Holdings PLC Jt. Deputy Chairperson and Jt. Managing Director Stasshani Jayawardena. 

“It’s a celebration of our achievements and a reaffirmation of our commitment to innovation, sustainability and community impact. We are greatly thankful to our discerning guests, dedicated associates and valued suppliers and partners for their unwavering support, trust and collaboration over the years. Your contribution has shaped our journey and we are dedicated to continuing this path, enhancing our positive influence and creating timeless memories and exceptional experiences for all.”

This 50th anniversary is not only a testament to Aitken Spence’s pioneering spirit but also a moment to reenergise its workforce as the company propels itself into the future of hospitality. Strong leadership, dedicated teams and long-standing partnerships have driven the company’s success and as it looks ahead, Aitken Spence Hotels remains poised to shape the future of hospitality, advancing sustainable tourism and making a meaningful impact across the globe.