With a truly international footprint, Sri Lankan hospitality company Aitken Spence Hotels is celebrating its 50th anniversary in hospitality industry. 

In a press statement, the hotel says that since opening Neptune Hotel in 1974, the company has grown into a global leader, renowned for its commitment to sustainability, quality, and innovation. 

According to the statement, 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, the group says that Aitken Spence quickly made history as the first Sri Lankan hospitality company to invest overseas with the acquisition of Bathala Island Resort in the Maldives in 1995. 

The statement adds that this 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, the hotel says, have stood the test of time, cementing Aitken Spence’s place as an industry trailblazer.

The statement adds that Aitken Spence Hotels now manages 18 properties across Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Oman, and India, totalling 2,629 rooms. 

The flagship brand, Heritance Hotels and Resorts, is renowned for its architectural excellence, with three properties designed by the legendary Geoffrey Bawa. 

The group adds that 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, it says. 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. 

The statement adds that these initiatives are undertaken by the group to advocate for Aitken Spence’s leadership in sustainability. 

It says that the company also funds 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, the group says that this milestone serves as a springboard to motivate employees and inspire a renewed focus on the future of hospitality. 

Stasshani Jayawardena

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

“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,” Jayawardena adds.

The group says its 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.