TRP News 02/03/2026

VALUE OF THE MONTH FOR MARCH

To be welcoming, genuine and warm

PRIMROSE HOUSE

Human Resources

HR shared a number of important payroll updates following recent government changes, along with several internal initiatives that will be rolled out in the coming months. As per the National Budget Speech, the new personal income tax threshold has been set at R99 000, with a primary rebate of R17 235. The national minimum wage has increased to R5 900 per month, and the domestic worker daily rate is now R250 for an eight-hour day. Adjustments to the medical aid tax credit and retirement annuity deductions will also provide additional tax relief for qualifying employees. These changes are already being applied through payroll, and the team remains available to assist anyone who would like clarity on how this affects their individual payslip.

In addition to these statutory updates, the company will soon introduce our updated formal Parental Leave Policy, providing clearer guidance and structured support for employees during this important life stage. A new career path platform is also in development, designed to give team members better visibility into growth opportunities and potential progression within the business. Our payroll system is being upgraded to a cloud based version of Sage, which will allow employees to access their payslips directly through the Sage mobile app. Go-live details and access instructions will be communicated in due course. A formal Travel Policy will also be introduced to ensure consistency and clarity around business travel. Finally, Wednesday training sessions will be reinstated, reinforcing our focus on continuous learning and maintaining high standards across our teams.

During Monday’s live stream, as well as on the property Broadcast groups, we conducted a live vote to determine the most suitable day and time for everyone to watch the monthly TRP News update. Based on the feedback received, it was agreed that the live stream will continue to take place on the first Monday of each month from 11h00 to 12h00. Please keep an eye out for calendar updates and make every effort to join the sessions going forward, as these forums remain an important platform for sharing company updates and staying aligned across all properties.

Marketing

The Marketing team shared an overview of current marketing and PR activity across The Royal Potfolio. This included the release of a human-interest story and video featuring Lodge Manager, Daniel Mongwe:

He started at the very bottom but a passion for hospitality, caring for others and an innate need to interact and meet new people catapulted his career.

Today, he leads one of the finest lodge operations in the business. Not because he chased titles, but because he earned trust.

His journey is about steady commitment. Early mornings, mentorship and a belief that hospitality is always about people first.

This feature forms part of a broader content drive focused on storytelling and elevating the people behind our guest experience.

Updates were also provided on brand alignment initiatives with Leading Hotels of the World, including co-branding elements within collateral and compendium materials.

At The Silo Hotel, focus was placed on the launch of The Vault Art Exhibition, "The Salon", which was well attended by TRP representatives and a big success!

The Silo Hotel Spa continues to receive focused promotional support alongside targeted editorial coverage, strengthening positioning within the wellness space.

Recent email campaigns have included a feature on each of our properties with a special highlight on Cemone Harrod (Concierge) who recently received her Golden keys, the second set of keys currently at The Silo Hotel.

Destination-driven blog content is being developed with a deliberate focus on AI and GEO discoverability, ensuring our properties remain visible and competitive in evolving digital search environments.

Our Field Guides Pixiesets have also been refreshed, supported by a formalised SOP to ensure consistency in how these tools are used in the field.

PR coverage remains extremely active across properties and key territories, with ongoing efforts to maintain strong brand presence in priority markets.

We are also continuing to receive stunning new photography from Lourenco Afonso (Wildlife Photographer and Content Creator), capturing the lush seasonal colours and wildlife, which will be fed into our marketing channels in the weeks ahead.

Sales

The Sales team has been busy over the past few weeks gaining significant momentum as the team moves deeper into trade show season. Appreciation was extended to Ian Taylor (Sales and Revenue Manager) for the forthcoming rate releases, which are critical in supporting contracting discussions and forward sales planning across key markets.

The sales team has an extensive international travel schedule in place, with upcoming trips with Hoon Kim (Sales Manager - Asia Pacific) attending LHW events in Tokyo and Seoul, attending sales calls in Hong Kong, attending the Royal African Discoveries Roadshow and continuing sales calls across India.

Werner Krause (Sales Manager - USA) will also be conducting sales calls in Florida, USA and Penny Fraser (Sales Manager - UK & Europe) is attending Loop Leisure in Madeira and conducting some sales calls in Germany.

Joaquin Brosou-Bonahora (Sales Manager - Latin America) is preparing for ILTM Latin America, a key platform for engaging high-value buyers and reinforcing our positioning within the luxury segment.

These experiences remain among the most effective tools in converting interest into confirmed business, ensuring agents and partners have first-hand exposure to our properties and service standards. Overall, activity levels remain high, with a clear focus on relationship-building, market expansion and driving forward bookings across The Royal Portfolio.

Events

The events calendar has had a busy start to the year, with activity spanning private lunches, multiple weddings, including high-production ceremonies at La Residence, and international shoots across the properties.

We would like to highlight the Cavaleros wedding at La Residence which took months of hard work and planning but was an absolute spectacle on the day!

A big thank you to everyone who has been involved with all events we have co-ordinated in 2026 thus far, each event has been a resounding success. Looking ahead, the schedule remains full, with a series of themed guest programs planned across La Residence and the Royal Malewane properties, ensuring engaging and memorable experiences for visitors.

PROPERTIES UPDATE

Birkenhead House

Birkenhead House continues to place strong emphasis on elevating the guest experience through thoughtful, detail-driven initiatives. A recent Valentine’s theme was seamlessly integrated into the guest journey, with carefully curated touches that enhanced the sense of occasion. Handcrafted turndown gifts, including home made bath salts and tea lights, were introduced as part of this approach, reinforcing a personalised and considered standard rather than relying on outsourced amenities. A strategic shift to an in-house floristry function has also been implemented, with floral arrangements now managed internally. This move has resulted in a measurable reduction in costs while maintaining the visual impact across guest areas, suites and event spaces.

The property also successfully hosted the Royal Malawane group, delivering a well-coordinated programme of onsite activities supported by strong cross-departmental collaboration. Staff participation played a key role in creating an engaging and authentic atmosphere throughout the visit.

We have continued with our monthly visits to the night shelter, which our Royal Malewane visitors also joined and enjoyed giving back to our local community.

Ongoing garden and courtyard improvements continue to enhance communal spaces, contributing to a refined sense of arrival and ensuring that both returning and first time guests experience a property that feels constantly evolving and meticulously maintained.

The Silo Hotel

The team at The Silo Hotel continues to receive consistently positive guest feedback, reflecting sustained service excellence and strong operational alignment. Recent reviews have highlighted attention to detail, personalised engagement and seamless delivery across departments.

A particularly noteworthy moment came during a recent audit by Leading Hotels of the World with Chelsea Jephthah (Assistant Concierge) acknowledged as Employee of the Month and celebrated as a star performer during the assessment. These achievements highlight the team’s commitment to excellence and attention to detail.

Several personal milestones were also celebrated, including Andrew Damoto’s (Duty Manager) successful completion of a marathon and Basheera Soeker’s (Commis Chef) beautiful wedding. To further strengthen collaboration and onboarding, the spa team prepared thoughtful welcome packs for the Royal Malewane team to mark their arrival at the property, and Momentum training was facilitated to support continued team development and alignment.

The property also hosted its FCP pack day on 19 February and the Vault celebrated the opening of a new art exhibition, The Salon, further enhancing the property’s cultural offering. Community engagement remained active through Leliebloem visits, continuing meaningful outreach initiatives and reinforcing the property’s connection to local partners and children in the surrounding community.

La Residence

The team at La Residence reflected on an exceptionally memorable period marked by standout events, meaningful milestones and continued progress across operations and sustainability. A recent wedding was described as the largest in the property’s history, a truly significant occasion that showcased the full commitment of the team and the seamless coordination across departments. The celebration, alongside a beautifully executed Valentine’s programme supported by thoughtfully designed menus and exceptional FOH delivery, reinforced the property’s reputation for creating magical and highly personalised experiences. The guest experience was further enriched by heartfelt touches, including elegant themed celebrations and bespoke culinary creations that added depth and sentiment to special occasions.

Staff development remains a strong focus, with Anri Potgieter (Demi Pastry Chef), who successfully completed her formal culinary studies and transitioned into a permanent role within the team. This progression from internship to full-time appointment highlights the effectiveness of internal development pathways and the property’s commitment to nurturing talent. Continued engagement with new starters included property tours and heritage storytelling, ensuring alignment with the brand’s history, standards and values.

The property also had the pleasure of hosting colleagues from Royal Malewane, strengthening operational understanding and cross-property collaboration. These visits provided valuable exposure to daily operations and deepened appreciation for the unique character of the Winelands setting. Team integration was seamless, further demonstrating the shared culture across the portfolio.

Sustainability efforts are gaining renewed momentum through a focused working group dedicated to reducing environmental impact. In collaboration with Head Office, the team is prioritising waste reduction, improved recycling practices and more responsible resource management. The long-term ambition is to significantly reduce the property’s carbon footprint and work toward eliminating waste leaving the property by 2027. Although still in its early stages, this initiative is driven by a committed internal committee and represents the beginning of a meaningful and lasting transformation in operational sustainability.

Lastly, we pay heartfelt tribute to our much-loved barista, Philasande Zileyi, whose unexpected passing has deeply affected us all. His warmth, energy and presence formed such a special part of daily life at the property, and his absence is felt profoundly by the entire team. He will always remain in our hearts and be remembered with great fondness.

Royal Malewane

Malewane Lodge

At Malewane, the team continues to balance meaningful guest celebrations, long-standing staff milestones and forward-looking development. A recent 40th birthday celebration was thoughtfully curated, reflecting the personalised approach that defines the guest experience and ensuring the occasion was both memorable and seamless.

The property also marked the retirement of Ramos Malapane (Junior Duty Manager) after 25 years of dedicated service, a significant milestone that speaks to the loyalty and strong culture within the team. His contribution over more than two decades has formed part of the fabric of the lodge, and his departure marks the end of an important chapter.

Exciting progress is underway with the reimagination of Malewane, where construction is actively in progress. This includes the removal of existing thatched and dining areas and the laying of new foundations to support an expansion, forming part of a broader vision to enhance the guest offering while maintaining the lodge’s distinctive character.

Beyond operations, the culture committee continues to prioritise community engagement, with a recent crèche visit focused on supporting and connecting with local children. These outreach efforts remain an important expression of the property’s values, ensuring that its impact extends beyond the lodge itself and into the surrounding community.

Farmstead

The team at Farmstead shared highlights reflecting both strong guest experiences and continued staff engagement. Recent celebrations were successfully coordinated between Farmstead and Africa House, demonstrating seamless collaboration between the two properties and creating memorable occasions for guests through carefully planned experiences and personalised touches.

Guest feedback during this period has remained very positive, with reviews noting the warmth of the team and the high level of service delivered throughout each stay. Staff have also had the opportunity to participate in safari experiences in the bush, providing valuable exposure that deepens product knowledge and strengthens the team’s ability to share authentic insights with guests.

Alongside guest operations, the property has continued its community-focused efforts. During the ongoing re-imagination phase of Malewane, the team has remained involved in maintaining local playgrounds and classrooms, ensuring these spaces remain safe and welcoming for children in the surrounding community. These initiatives reflect the broader commitment to supporting local partners while continuing to deliver exceptional hospitality in the bush.

While doing routine maintenance checks, two mating boomslangs were spotted in our waterplant container, which drew lots of attention. They have currently been on honeymoon since the 22nd of February.

Waterside Lodge

Valentine’s Day at Waterside was celebrated with a beautifully planned programme that included a spa ritual, Strawberry Daiquiri Mocktails, and a lawn lunch experience. Although the lunch had to be moved indoors due to unexpected rain, the team adapted seamlessly, ensuring the celebration remained special for guests and maintaining the atmosphere of the occasion.

Waterside also celebrated colleagues who left us to spend some time at the Western Cape properties, thank you to everyone who has made each of them feel so welcome!

Operationally, the property achieved a score of 84.9% during its recent assessment by Leading Hotels of the World, an encouraging result that reflects the continued focus on service delivery and operational standards. Three team members were specifically recognised as standout performers during the assessment, highlighting the individual excellence that underpins the overall guest experience.

Innovation also featured with Livert Manyike (Maintenance Technician) developing a practical solar lantern solution. This initiative demonstrates the creativity within the team and the ongoing effort to find practical, sustainable solutions that enhance operations in the bush environment.

Masiya's Camp

Guest book entries at Masiya's Camp have been particularly positive, with visitors commenting on the warm hospitality and relaxed atmosphere that define the camp experience. Valentine’s Day was celebrated with a series of thoughtful touches, including themed drinks, beautifully prepared room setups and indulgent chocolate waffles, creating a light-hearted and memorable occasion for guests.

Behind the scenes, the food and beverage team recently completed cocktail training, further strengthening their skills and adding new flair to the guest offering.

The camp also enjoyed some unexpected entertainment from the resident wildlife, with vervet monkeys putting on quite a show, including the memorable sight of a few taking a swim, much to the amusement of both guests and staff.

FOUNDATION UPDATE

The latest Foundation spotlight focused on the work of Dyer Island Conservation Trust, highlighting its ongoing commitment to marine research, environmental education and the protection of fragile coastal ecosystems. The Trust plays a vital role in safeguarding biodiversity in the region, with particular emphasis on the conservation of African penguins and other marine species that depend on the surrounding waters and islands for survival.

As part of its continued support for impactful conservation initiatives, the Foundation is funding a dedicated bird ranger stationed on Dyer Island. This role is critical in monitoring and protecting the African penguin colony, assisting with population tracking, habitat protection and ongoing research efforts. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to long-term ecological stewardship and demonstrates how targeted support can directly contribute to measurable conservation outcomes.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES AT TRP

Our Careers page is the reference point for all open positions available across The Royal Portfolio group. We accept internal and external applications here, and always, internal applications are given preference.

In order to ensure your application stands out, please apply via the Careers page and let your HOD and property HR Manager know of your desire to develop yourself further.

Feel free to share the site with your industry friends and networks too, in order to help us reach a wider network of exceptional candidates.

You can click here, or scan the QR code to visit the website.

TO BE WELCOMING GENUINE AND WARM

NEW STARTERS

A very warm welcome to the following new, and in some cases, returning or transferring, team members across The Royal Portfolio:

TO RECOGNISE, REWARD AND UPLIFT

PROMOTIONS AND TRANSFERS

Congratulations to the below staff for their hard work and for continuing to go above and beyond to ensure that we Give our Guests a Complete Experience and a Perfect Stay!

LONG SERVICE AWARDS - 5, 10, 15, 20 & 25 Years with TRP in March!

Congratulations and thank you to the following staff for their loyalty and hard work over the years:

• Bernie Esterhuizen (Travel Planner @ HQ) | 15  Years on the 01st of March 2026

• Lou Du Valle (Reservations Team Leader @ HQ) | 10 Years on the 01st of March 2026

• Gilmon Mathonsi (Handyman @ ML) | 10 Years on the 07th of March 2026

• Mumps Mathonsi (Senior Tracker @ ML) | 10 Years on the 11th of March 2026

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