Starwood Hotels & Resorts today announced at the Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expos (AIME) that it plans to forge ahead with expansion in Australia and the Pacific, opening six new hotels and resorts this year. Reflecting strong demand in the region, the vigorous growth will be fuelled by Sheraton, Starwood’s largest and most global brand, as well as by a dynamic travel industry partnership between Starwood Preferred Guest® (SPG®), Starwood’s innovative loyalty program, and Virgin Australia.

Within this region, Starwood is targeting both established markets, such as Australia; and increasingly popular resort destinations, including Fiji, Samoa and New Caledonia. The six new properties to open in 2014 include Sheraton Melbourne Hotel and Four Points by Sheraton Brisbane in Australia; Sheraton Resort & Spa, Tokoriki Island, Fiji; Sheraton New Caledonia Deva Resort & Spa; Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Resort and Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Hotel.

“We are embarking on a milestone year for Starwood’s growth and development in the Pacific,” said Sean Hunt, Regional Vice President, Pacific, Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “I am confident that the strength of our brands, especially Sheraton, will fulfil robust demand for upper-upscale hospitality offerings in Australia, the region’s mature market, as well as in emerging resort isles – providing a range of excellent facilities for both business and leisure travellers.”

Starwood currently operates 14 hotels in the Pacific region, with nine hotels in Australia, including Sheraton on the Park in Sydney; The Westin Sydney; The Westin Melbourne; Sheraton Mirage Resort & Spa, Gold Coast; Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas Resort; and Sheraton Noosa Resort & Spa. In addition, there are three hotels in Fiji and two in New Caledonia. At year-end 2014, the company expects to have 20 operating hotels and resorts. In addition, The Westin Perth is in the pipeline for 2017 openings.