Q & A with Abe Moore, SuperClubs Vice President of Operations for Cuba and the Caribbean

Q & A with Abe Moore
SuperClubs Vice President of Operations for Cuba and the Caribbean

By Jose Carlos de Santiago

This high-ranking exec is in charge of all SuperClubs hotels –except the ones run in Brazil- in terms of operations. In the case of Cuba, Mr. Moore also watches marketing ops. He sat down with CND President and CEO Jose Carlos de Santiago in an exclusive interview during the International Tourism Fair FITCuba 2011 in Havana.

What development plans does SuperClubs have in store for Cuba?
We’re holding talks with Cuban authorities, with the chains, to explore some possibilities, yet I can’t give you any further details. We’re interested in all the destinations.

SuperClubs’ new franchising policy for hotels, is it working on all six?
I wouldn’t say it’s a new policy. We’ve tried that several times. Unfortunately, it hasn’t worked out well and I think this is a line we’re not going to cling to anymore.

What has SuperClubs’ operational and image change meant to be for the company?
It was a necessary change, especially in terms of marketing. After making the change, we’ve been able to cut down on promotional investment for the hotels. We’ve had very positive results in that sense and we’re keeping up the same level of services. We’re now phrasing in a new stage: beginning next winter, we’re going to raise standards and enhance services in the hotels.

Has the existence of new offers hurt SuperClubs?
I don’t think it’s hurt us at all. Competition is important. If one particular business succeeds, other will try to jump on the bandwagon to make it better. I think it’s good for everybody.

Do you believe Russia could be a major market?
Yes, we’ve had Russian guests. Let’s see what will happen with Russia in the future. Tourists from Eastern Europe and especially from Russia praise good service and according to the polls, service in Mexico is one of the things drawing them to that country.

Do you think Cuba is ready to provide better service in this high-end category?
I think it is. With the new hotel projects, I believe in a short period of time Cuba will be up to par with Mexico or any other destination.