Stéphane Valeri, President of the Société des Bains de Mer (SBM), shared an ambitious vision for 2025 during his annual address to the gathered Monegasque press on Wednesday, January 8. Speaking from the historic Salon Excelsior of the Hôtel Hermitage, Valeri reflected on a successful conclusion to 2024 and previewed a year filled with significant milestones and developments. He highlighted the opening of the New Moods, a restaurant that has quickly become a popular destination due to its blend of quality and affordability, and welcomed Stéphane Tendero, a prominent restaurateur, to lead the Café de Paris.

The holiday season proved to be a resounding success, with notable increases in visitors from France, Italy, and the United States. Casino Square’s festive decorations were a major attraction, drawing over 23,000 visitors on New Year’s Eve, a 50 percent increase compared to the previous year. SBM also expanded its gaming footprint with the launch of its first two casinos aboard Crystal cruise ships.

Valeri announced the upcoming opening of the Marlow restaurant at Mareterra’s Place Princess Gabriella on Thursday, January 16. Designed with the ambiance of an Anglo-Saxon club, the Marlow will offer all-day dining from 8:30 to midnight, Wednesday through Sunday. Spring will see renovations at the Beach Club, including updates to the Le Deck restaurant and poolside furniture. Two international culinary brands, Jondal from Ibiza and Sea Satin from Greece, will bring unique dining experiences to La Vigie and Maona, respectively.

At the Hôtel de Paris, the second phase of cellar renovations will feature an exclusive dining room and interactive presentations, including a virtual exploration of the cellars’ history. Renovations at the Hôtel Hermitage and Monte-Carlo Bay will also continue, focusing on luxury suites and room updates, with work scheduled from October to March to minimise disruption.

SBM’s global reach will expand further with the launch of the “Monte-Carlo Club 1863” restaurant in Dubai by the end of the year, developed in partnership with D.ream International. Valeri reaffirmed SBM’s interest in acquiring Le Méridien, though the decision ultimately rests with the State, and revealed plans for a real estate project near the Thermes Marins and Casino Terraces, with work expected to begin in 2027.

On regulatory matters, Valeri emphasised the advanced compliance resources of Monte Carlo’s casinos and ongoing discussions with the Monaco Financial Security Authority to align obligations with those in France. He also addressed road safety, praising the “Be Safe” initiative and SBM’s efforts to prevent drink driving.

Valeri concluded by announcing SBM’s annual recruitment day, scheduled for Wednesday, January 22, reflecting the group’s commitment to talent development as it embarks on a transformative year.

Image courtesy of Monte-Carlo SBM