SBM Bank Kenya Director of Consumer Banking Beth Thuo, has unveiled a wide-ranging partnership with Serena Hotels that will give SBM cardholders discounted access to the chain’s lodges, resorts and city properties, while deepening domestic tourism and lifestyle spending.
Speaking during the signing ceremony at Nairobi Serena Hotel, Thuo said the agreement “reaffirms our commitment to continually enrich the journeys of those we serve.”
Under the deal, SBM cardholders will enjoy a 20 percent discount on all food offers, 15 percent off accommodation at any Serena property in Kenya and 10 percent off SPA treatments.
“Serena Hotels resonates with excellence, hospitality and a rich tradition of service and by joining forces, we unlock new possibilities for our customers and set new benchmarks for service in Kenya’s travel industry,” she stated.
The Director added that SBM’s innovation agenda is anchored on responding to evolving lifestyle needs.
“Expect more value-driven solutions as we continue to listen to you, embracing this partnership with openness and enthusiasm,” she assured.
Serena Hotels’ Regional Director of Marketing for Africa Maureen Okore, noted that the tie-up is backed by research showing a surge in Kenyans who choose to travel, explore and unwind within the country.
“According to the Tourism Research Institute, domestic bed-nights grew from 4.6 million in 2020 to 5.2 million in 2024, a 12 per cent rise. Therefore, today’s guest is looking for meaning, not just money, in every experience and together we are launching offers that invite SBM club-holders to enjoy Serena properties in a seamless and rewarding way,” she announced.
Okore further pointed out that Serena runs 22 properties across Africa, including city hotels, a beach resort and several camps and lodges in Kenya, giving domestic travelers a full menu of escapes.
Additionally, she mentioned that consumer spending is rapidly shifting toward dining, wellness and self-care, making the SBM-Serena bundle timely.
“Our collaboration is aimed at making African hospitality more accessible while supporting sustainable tourism and nurturing regional economic growth,” explained Okore.
The Marketing Chief lauded the media for amplifying the message of home-grown tourism saying, “Your support helps us inspire more people to travel with purpose and joy. Serena and SBM are showing that hospitality is not just a destination, but an experience”.
Concurrently, Nairobi Serena Hotel General Manager (GM) Antony Chege, said the partnership would give mutual clients enhanced experiences.
“Today we put pen to paper on activities that will make our shared vision of superior service delivery a reality and a very meaningful and collaborative endeavour that will deepen loyalty to both brands,” stated Chege.
Speaking at the event, the GM revealed that the hotel had already earmarked themed weekends where SBM clients would receive surprise upgrades and personalised welcome amenities.
He urged local media to walk the talk by sampling the packages and reporting on the experience.
By Brenda Oluoch
