Shangri-La's dual-branded debut redefines the Shanghai hub

As Shanghai prepares to welcome the world for the 8th China International Import Expo, the city’s status as a global nexus is reinforced with the grand opening of a pioneering hospitality project. Shangri-La Group has unveiled its fifth project in the city, the dual-branded Shangri-La Hongqiao Airport and Traders Hongqiao Airport. This strategic development, located at the pulsating heart of the Hongqiao transportation hub, not only exemplifies the Group's expanding footprint in China but also marks the global debut of its revitalized, future-forward Traders brand.

The dual-branded Shangri-La Hongqiao Airport and Traders Hongqiao Airport has opened at the heart of the Hongqiao hub. Photos courtesy of Shangri-La Group

Chris Tung, Shangri-La Group’s chief marketing officer and China chief executive officer, connected the opening to the city's broader ambitions. “We are honored to mark the upcoming 8th China International Import Expo with the opening of our dual-branded hotel in Hongqiao,” he stated. “Through heartfelt Asian hospitality, we aim to create the 'Finest Service Window' that reflects Shangri-La Group’s long-term commitment to Shanghai’s economic development and to advancing the national strategy of Yangtze River Delta integration.”

This opening represents a significant evolution in the group's strategy. Tung elaborated on the “luxury + efficiency” dual-engine approach, which achieves operational synergy while elevating service standards for guests at the international hub. The refreshed Traders brand is central to this vision, focusing on technological sophistication and smart efficiency to set a new benchmark for modern business travelers.

The exterior of the new development. 

The reception floor of Shangri-La Hongqiao Airport. 

The property’s prime location is a key advantage, offering direct connectivity to Terminal 2 of Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, the high-speed rail station, and the city’s metro network. This provides seamless access not only to downtown Shanghai but also to key Yangtze River Delta cities like Suzhou, Hangzhou, and Nanjing, all within an hour's reach.

Under one roof, the development offers two distinct, complementary experiences. Shangri-La Hongqiao Airport serves as a haven of calm at the crossroads of travel. Its 91 elegantly designed rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling quadruple-glazed windows, creating a quiet sanctuary with panoramic views of aircraft movements and the city skyline. The Horizon Club privileges and signature restaurant, Shangri-La Jiangnan Wok — led by Michelin-starred chef Tiger Yang — offer timeless luxury. Furthermore, with nearly 3,000 square meters of event space near the National Exhibition and Convention Center, it is poised to become a premier venue for high-profile conferences and weddings.

A guest room at Shangri-La Hongqiao Airport. 

In contrast, Traders Hongqiao Airport redefines the brand with a bold new identity where efficiency meets enjoyment. It is designed for the dynamic traveler, featuring an express check-in/out system that can be completed in as little as 15 seconds. Smart technology is woven into the fabric of the stay: Luggage delivery robots bring bags directly to rooms, and barista-style coffee robots serve artisanal brews on demand. Its 520 thoughtfully designed rooms include traveler-centric amenities like a seven-choice pillow menu and comfort sets for delayed flights.

A guest room at Traders Hongqiao Airport. 

A barista-style coffee robot serves artisanal brews on demand.

Breaking from tradition, its dining concept, 77 Food Restaurant, is a vibrant food hall featuring beloved regional brands. Guests can savor Michelin-starred French croissants from LE JARDIN de Joël Robuchon, Lanxi-style breakfasts, and Taiwanese braised pork rice, offering a dynamic culinary journey in a single, convenient location.

Together, this dual-branded property is more than just a new hotel; it is a microcosm of modern travel needs. It successfully merges the timeless appeal of luxurious comfort with the smart, seamless efficiency demanded by today’s global citizen, solidifying Shanghai’s role as a leading hub for international exchange and setting a new standard for integrated hospitality.