BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Honiara King Solomon Hotel (KSH) is demonstrating strong business performance under its new ownership since the ownership change in March 2025.
The hotel has created 24 new jobs in just five months, bringing its total staff count to 90 employees, and is now embarking on an ambitious $50 million redevelopment project that promises to elevate tourism in the Solomon Islands, according to a press statement from the hotel.
In it’s statement, the hotel said the first stage of the redevelopment, which is part of a three-phase plan, is set to transform the King Solomon Hotel into a world-class tourism and hospitality hub.
The statement adds that the $50 million investment will be executed over the next 12 months includes the construction of three new “leaf Haus” structures, each standing 13 meters tall and spanning over 30 metres in width.
“The new development will feature a modern microbrewery and pub, an open commercial kitchen, an in-house bakery and butchery, a restaurant and cafe, a revamped hotel reception and foyer.
“All existing, much-loved carvings and cultural artefacts from the current restaurant and bar area will be preserved and repurposed in the new design, ensuring the redevelopment maintains its connection to the hotel’s heritage and local culture,” the statement said.
The hotel further added that the success of the King Solomon Hotel and its redevelopment plans is possible with the instrumental support from the GNUT government, led by Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and his Cabinet.
“Their backing has given the hotel’s new owners the confidence to make bold investment decisions, resulting in the creation of 23 new jobs in just five months and setting the stage for further economic growth in the tourism sector,” the statement said.
The hotel also acknowledged the importance of government support in driving the hotel’s success.
“The leadership of Hon Manele and the GNUT government has been pivotal in helping us make strong, impactful decisions to not only improve the hotel but to also position the Solomon Islands as a premier destination for international tourisim.”
The hotel continues to be managed by Florence Miki, with the Board comprising three SINPF-nominated directors and two O’Neill Remington Group directors, including Mr Peter O’Neill himself as chairman of the board.
“Following the completion of Stage 1, the second phase of the redevelopment will see the addition of 110 international-standard hotel rooms and a new apartment complex, further cementing King Solomon Hotel’s reputation as a leader in the Solomon Islands’ tourism industry.
“Beyond Honiara, the hotel’s parent company, King Hotels & Resorts Limited, is committed to exploring new tourism investments across the Solomon Islands. This initiative aims to stimulate tourism development beyond the capital, bringing greater economic opportunities to other regions of the country,” the statement said.
The statement further said that the success of the redevelopment project relies heavily on collaboration with local builders, tradespeople, business houses, and the public, whose contributions are integral to achieving the project’s goals.
This partnership, according to the hotel’s statement, underscores the importance of working together to foster economic growth and improve the tourism industry in the Solomon Islands.
The hotel’s management expressed its gratitude to the local community.
“The support we’ve received from local businesses, tradespeople, and the public has been nothing short of incredible. This redevelopment is not just about the KSH, it’s about creating opportunities and driving tourism growth for the entire Solomon Islands.”
The redevelopment of the King Solomon Hotel marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for tourism in the Solomon Islands, according to the hotel’s statement.
The hotel is poised to become a centrepiece of the country’s hospitality sector, attracting international visitors and creating economic opportunities for the local community with its strong performance under new ownership.
The statement concludes that as construction begins on this ambitious project, Solomon Islands can look forward to a brighter future for tourism and economic development, driven by visionary leadership, bold investments, and the unwavering support of the local community.
The designed new look for King Solomon Hotel: Photos supplied
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