Skift Take

Sometimes size and scale distract from a company's mission. Club Med's CEO has learned that it's better to zero in on a target market and serve them well rather than cast a too-wide net.

At last month’s Skift Global Forum 2016 in New York City, we heard from CEOs of startups and established brands alike.

With more than 65 years of history, Club Med definitely fits into the latter category — but the company has been forced to adapt as the audience for its upscale, all-inclusive vacations has evolved.

CEO Henri Giscard d’Estaing spoke about the company’s investment of more than $1.5 billion to upgrade properties; the decision to close half of its resorts because they didn’t meet high standards; and the current focus on affluent families and active couples.

Part of the company’s challenge, he said, is catering to multiple generations and cultures — and figuring out the best way to make each of those different guests happy.

Watch the complete discussion below.

Read more coverage of Skift Global Forum 2016

At this year’s Skift Global Forum in New York City, travel leaders from around the world gathered for two days of inspiration, information, and conversation for panels such as this as well as solo TED-like talks on the future of travel.

Visit our Skift Global Forum site for more details about 2017 events, including our London event in April of 2017.

Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch

Tags: club med, sgf2016, skift global forum

Up Next

Loading next stories