At Think Trail, every project we take on is guided by our philosophy of delivering deeply contextual, value-driven solutions that balance commercial viability with destination authenticity. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all strategies—each assignment is curated with a clear understanding of the owner’s vision, market dynamics, and long-term objectives. By combining rigorous analysis, creative thinking, and hands-on engagement, we ensure that our involvement not only solves immediate challenges but also unlocks lasting value for owners and investors. The following case studies illustrate how we bring this philosophy to life, turning unique hospitality opportunities into enduring success stories.
01. Strategic Asset Repositioning
A leading real estate firm engaged us to evaluate the optimal positioning and operating model for a landmark asset in a prime Cape Town location. The brief was to align the asset with the client’s long-term investment strategy and the broader vision for their multi-asset portfolio. We undertook a comprehensive investment analysis, evaluating multiple scenarios across market positioning, capital investment requirements and various operating structures – including fixed and variable lease models, management contracts, franchising, and third-party operations.
Drawing from a curated shortlist of top-tier domestic and international hotel brands, we collaborated closely with the client’s executive team to negotiate the most commercially sound operating model. This included securing favourable commercial terms, governance structures and brand alignment.
Our recommendations enabled the successful appointment of a globally recognised brand with a strong international distribution network. We also advised on the asset repositioning and operator selection, guided by deep market insights and stakeholder alignment. The outcome resulted in a well-structured solution that enhances long-term value creation and operational efficiency, fully aligned with the client’s strategic direction portfolio objectives.
Context
Repositioning
Focus
Portfolio Alignment
Value Added
Optimal Structures
Impact Delivered
Asset Value Uplift
02. Safari Market Entry Strategy and Concept Development
We were engaged by a client exploring entry into the premium safari hospitality sector to develop an investment roadmap. The objective was to create a commercially viable and experientially authentic lodge offering in a highly competitive and operationally nuanced safari landscape.
Our mandate included market research, competitor benchmarking, and financial modelling to define the optimal positioning and operating model. We advised on ownership and management structures specific to the safari lodge segment and worked closely with the client to guide the commercial investment strategy and product differentiation. In parallel, we facilitated the appointment of a specialist architecture and design firm with deep experience in conservation-led hospitality.
Through collaborative planning led by the architect, a masterplan was developed for a multi-lodge concept that balanced scalability and operational efficiency while maintaining exclusivity and immersive guest experiences. Our strategic guidance enabled the client to progress with a market-relevant concept, underpinned by collaboration with expert teams, a phased development approach, and alignment with high-end safari guest expectations. The result was a project tailored for long-term sustainability and brand differentiation in the luxury ecotourism space.
Context
Market Entry
Focus
Concept Design
Value Added
Commercially Sustainable Model
Impact Delivered
Market Differentiation
03. Advisory on Operational Model Transition and Commercial Realignment
Our client, a key stakeholder in a mixed-use development in East Africa, engaged us to advise on transitioning the operational model of their hospitality asset. Initially structured under a hotel management agreement with a leading international brand, the client sought to shift to a franchise model to enhance operational prudence and efficiency.
We conducted a detailed review of the existing agreement, benchmarked fee structures, and assessed comparable operator models to provide the client with a clear view of market norms and negotiation levers. Drawing from our industry insight and experience with international brands, we facilitated the discussions as a advisor to the ownership team to recalibrate the relationship under a more favourable franchise structure.
Our role ensured the continuity of a strong brand affiliation while safeguarding the client’s commercial interests. The revised agreement resulted in significant long-term savings in operator fees and enabled the owner to implement a more agile and efficient operational framework. The outcome aligned all stakeholders and positioned the asset for improved performance within the broader development strategy.
Context
Operational Structure
Focus
Fee Benchmarking
Value Added
Cost Savings
Impact Delivered
Stakeholder Alignment
04. Strategic Transaction Advisory and Option Appraisal
Amid a broader restructuring within a group of affiliated entities, our client sought advisory support to assess strategic options related to partner exits, equity realignment, and future investment direction. The objective was to guide shareholders through a complex transition while preserving long-term value and stakeholder alignment.
We conducted a thorough option appraisal exercise, including valuation benchmarks, market positioning analysis, and partnership structuring scenarios.Our insights provided shareholders with a clear understanding of their current position and enabled informed decision-making around partner exits, price discovery, and capital structuring.
As part of our recommendation, we advised the client to first explore strategic alignment opportunities with existing relationship partners—preserving legacy value and operational continuity—before engaging wider investor interest. Our strategic counsel helped the client navigate a critical decision-making phase with confidence, resulting in a more structured and value-focused approach to the transaction, aligned with long-term ownership interests and growth aspirations.
