Southern Sun’s Record-Breaking Month - October Occupancy Tops 2010 World Cup Levels

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GUEST: Marcel von Aulock – CEO, Southern Sun

Southern Sun has just delivered a historic milestone and it’s bigger than the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

In October, the group recorded its highest occupancy ever at 73.3%, surpassing one of South Africa’s biggest tourism booms, while revenue surged 18% and Ebitdar jumped 27% year-on-year.

Southern Sun CEO Marcel von Aulock joins us to unpack the hotel group’s half-year results and what powered this exceptional performance. From strong conferencing and events demand in Gauteng and the Western Cape to a resilient domestic travel market, the numbers reveal a sector gearing up for a blockbuster summer.
19 Nov 2025 4PM English South Africa Business News · Investing

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