BERLIN—The International Hotel Investment Forum (IHIF) honored renowned hotelier Ian Schrager at the 17th IHIF in Berlin. Schrager is credited with the invention of global concepts such as the boutique hotel, lobby socializing, cheap chic, and urban resorts. His talent for reading the mood and feel of popular culture are undoubtedly significant factors to his success. From his initial ventures, nightclubs Studio 54 and Palladium, through to the opening of Morgans Hotel in 1984 and subsequent creation of the Ian Schrager Company, which owns, develops, and manages hotels, residential, and mixed used projects, Schrager’s passion for the hospitality industry has been his driving force. Schrager is currently focused on expanding his private label brand PUBLIC as well as working with Marriott International on the new lifestyle brand EDITION.
“Ian Schrager is synonymous with groundbreaking concepts that have changed the hospitality business,” commented Tess Pearson, event director, Questex Media Group, hosts of IHIF. “The purpose of The IHIF Lifetime Achievement Award is to recognize truly inspirational leadership and vision. We are genuinely delighted to be able to publicly recognize the developments Ian has made throughout his career at IHIF 2014.”
Commenting on receiving the award, Ian Schrager said: “My goal has always been to do something new and truly innovative—to push the boundaries and break with convention. I have always felt product distinction is everything. Throughout my career I have tried to provide guests with more than just a place to sleep by creating authentic, one-of-a-kind experiences that capture the zeitgeist and reflect the spirit of the times. I feel very fortunate that the hotel industry has given me this tremendous opportunity.”
