Everlasting Experiences

In an era of rapid economic change, hospitality assets require more than just service – they demand a sophisticated engine of technology, market power, and long-term planning. Below, Elvis Kotherja (Founder) and Besi Xhaja (CEO of Elite Hospitality) explain how Elite Hospitality is reshaping hospitality asset management in the region.

Interview with Elvis Kotherja – Founder of Elite Travel Group & Elite Hospitality

Elite Hospitality was born from a 25-year legacy. How does this history translate into “sales power” for a hotel owner today?

Our foundation is not merely management; it is results. Through Elite Travel Group, we have contracted and delivered millions of overnight stays across Southeast Europe. We do not simply “operate” a hotel; we know exactly how to fill it. This quarter-century of data and relationships gives us a unique perspective that traditional management firms do not have. We understand the pulse of the market, which allows us to immediately align an owner’s asset with real-world demand.

How do demographic shifts impact the hospitality industry, and how will future generations relate to inherited hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, and similar assets? Why is this important to your vision?

We are entering a period of major social transformation. We see many small and medium-sized family businesses where the founders are aging, while the next generation may not be ready to take on the administrative burden of modern technology and global marketing. Our vision is to turn this “succession crisis” into a solution. We protect the family’s spirit and investment by providing the institutional backbone they need.

We do the same for banks, investment funds, investors, insurance companies, and construction firms that own assets but lack the expertise to manage them. We reduce their investment risk and maximize market value.

What is Elite Hospitality’s promise to an investor?

Transparency and partnership in growth. Whether you are a bank, an investor, or an insurance company, you need a partner who acts as a steward of your capital. Our vision is to be the leading full-service company that transforms properties into high-performance products and destinations.

We offer a simple philosophy: a transparent, cost-efficient model in which we share success. We are not merely a service provider; we are a long-term partner in asset and property development.

Interview with Besi Xhaja – CEO of Elite Hospitality

How does Elite Hospitality’s management structure ensure that every property performs to a global standard?

Execution is about eliminating assumptions. We have built a Central Competence Center that functions as our “brain.” This brain houses our expertise in digital distribution, finance, and human resources.

We then transfer this expertise to our “Profit Centers / Properties” on the ground. This means that whether it is a small boutique hotel or a large resort, each property receives the same high level of service, driven by professionals using technology and artificial intelligence.

The process is well structured, from procurement to financial reporting and auditing, ensuring management standards comparable to those of a global chain. We bring institutional-level leadership to every single property.

Elite Hospitality offers several models – from White Label to Leasing. How do you determine which is best for an owner?

It depends on the expectations of each owner or investor.

• If an owner wants absolute security, our leasing model (9+9 years) provides a guaranteed income stream and doubles the asset’s value through repositioning.

• For those who wish to remain active in decision-making, our White Label model offers our technological engine – AI-driven revenue systems and centralized human resources – while they retain independence.

• For international expansion, we act as a “bridge” for franchise agreements, handling the “headache” of brand standards while the owner enjoys return on investment (ROI).

We tailor execution to each owner’s specific appetite for risk and involvement.

How do you ensure efficiency so that partners benefit as much as possible from working with Elite Hospitality?

Efficiency is driven by our digital ecosystem. We have replaced old-style administration with a sophisticated sales and revenue structure. This gives OTAs, bed banks, and travel agencies direct, real-time access to our inventory.

Combined with centralized procurement – which leverages our group’s large-scale distribution and sales power to reduce costs – we protect the owner’s margins at every step.

In our management contracts, our goals are 100% aligned with the owner’s: we win when they win. This is the definition of excellence in client-centric leadership.

Which properties have already embraced the Elite Hospitality vision?

Currently, we are focused on two major projects marking the beginning of this year.

The first is Henry Resort & Spa in Golem, with a capacity of 108 keys. This resort has been under our management since January 10 and operates year-round, bringing a new standard to the coastline.

We have also expanded our portfolio in Italy with a property in the Emilia-Romagna region, specifically in Badia Polesine. This is a 110-key apart-hotel in a highly strategic location, about 60 km from major hubs such as Bologna, Venice, Verona, and the Lombardy region.

We have several other projects under review and in the final stages of negotiation, which we will announce in due course.

Regarding human resources, why should a hospitality professional embrace your vision and work with you?

Tourism is one of the sectors that will be a key focus of the Albanian state in the coming years. We believe accommodation structures today have a golden opportunity to increase revenues and replicate regional success models such as Croatia, Montenegro, and even Southern Italy.

There are several reasons to join us:

• Low-stress environment supported by cutting-edge technology: Our operations are powered by sophisticated management systems that eliminate chaos and create a calm, efficient workplace.

• Diverse career paths: Your career is not limited to one sector – you can grow in luxury hotel management and within an international network of bars and restaurants.

• An international profession: Opportunities to work in a global market with a broad partnership network.

• Professional efficiency through balanced schedules: Our technology respects your personal time and work–life balance.

• Bonuses and unlimited growth opportunities in an industry with limitless potential.

For more employment opportunities at Elite Hospitality, you can apply here:
https://hospitality.etg.al/career/