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MK Group, one of the leading investors and a key tourism developer in the Adriatic region, has signed hotel management agreements with Minor Hotels, a leading global hotel owner and operator. Through this partnership, Minor Hotels is expanding its global portfolio and entering the Croatian and Slovenian markets for the first time by taking over the former Kempinski hotels, continuing its international growth through strategic development in key destinations. Minor Hotels currently has 640 operating properties and projects in development across its global portfolio, with a strong strategic focus on the world’s most exclusive destinations. In Europe, the group is already recognised for its luxury properties operating under the Anantara and Tivoli brands in cities such as Nice, Vienna, Rome, Lisbon and Budapest.
The property in Savudrija, previously known as Kempinski Hotel Adriatic, will operate as a resort under the Anantara brand, one of the world’s leading luxury hotel brands, known for its exceptional standards, attention to detail and strong focus on personalised guest service. A key focus of this transformation from a hotel property into a full resort destination will be spa and wellness. In Portorož, Minor Hotels will introduce its new luxury soft brand, Minor Reserve Collection, distinguished by a carefully curated selection of unique hotels united by a shared commitment to sophisticated, rare and truly exceptional experiences.
„The arrival of these brands represents the biggest step forward on the regional tourism scene and introduces an entirely new level of luxury. This is a concept created in response to growing global demand for sophisticated, authentic and truly exclusive experiences, with a special focus on a unique spa and wellness offering. This move by MK Group will help position the entire region on the map of the world’s most desirable premium tourism destinations. Slovenia is recognised for its leadership in sustainable tourism and deeply rooted wellness traditions, while Croatia continues to attract international travellers with its impressive coastline and Mediterranean lifestyle”, said Mihailo Janković, CEO of MK Group.
„Our decision to strengthen our presence in Central and Southeast Europe has been driven by strong tourism growth and rising demand for authentic luxury hospitality experiences. We are delighted to partner with MK Group through this unique opportunity to enter the Adriatic market, and I am confident that the synergy between our teams will deliver a distinctive and enhanced experience at these two exceptional hotels“, said Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels.
Thanks to this strategic partnership, the MK Group hotels in Portorož and Savudrija are entering a new phase of development. The company remains strategically committed to the further development of both destinations, with investments worth EUR 20 million planned across the two hotels during 2026. Through these investments, MK Group aims to respond to the most demanding global trends.
During the rebranding and white-label period, the hotels in Portorož and Savudrija will continue operating while maintaining the highest quality of service and full access to all facilities for guests. Hotel Palace Portorož and Adriatic Istria Resort in Savudrija will remain open to visitors in line with their regular seasonal operations. Both hotels will retain their 5-star categorisation, while the hotel teams will remain fully committed to maintaining a high level of service and reliability for all guests and partners.
In line with the progress of the process, MK Group and Minor Hotels will continue to keep the public informed transparently about the next steps and the further development of the hotel portfolio.
