The PuLi Group Enters a New Era with Dean Winter
The PuLi Group has announced Dean Winter as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 June 2026. Winter, a luxury hospitality veteran with over 30 years of experience—including his tenure as Managing Director of Swire Hotels—will steer the group through a transformative period of growth and innovation.
From Iconic Hotel to Asian Luxury Portfolio
Winter’s appointment marks a strategic pivot: evolving The PuLi from a single flagship hotel into a collection of culturally immersive luxury properties. The CEO will oversee strategic direction, brand development, and portfolio growth across Asia, ensuring the brand’s philosophy of calm, restraint, and cultural authenticity remains intact.
Expanding Horizons: Beijing, Kuala Lumpur, and Beyond
Alongside The PuLi Shanghai, Winter will manage The PuXuan in Beijing and The RuMa in Kuala Lumpur, both under Urban Resort Concepts. Winter commented, “I’m delighted to join at a time of exciting evolution and look forward to working with the many talented team members devoted to this unique organisation.”
Shanghai Renovation: A Modern Sanctuary Rooted in Culture
The PuLi Shanghai is undergoing a comprehensive renovation, set for completion in summer 2026. Layan Design Studio, responsible for the original interiors, returns to integrate East Asian heritage with contemporary Western design. Each guestroom will be curated like a collector’s home, featuring bespoke furniture, Chinese artworks, and literary selections. Public spaces—including the Lobby, The Library, and The Long Bar—will combine craftsmanship with modern artistry.
Wellness, Culinary Excellence, and Signature Experiences
The property will introduce a dedicated wellness floor, highlighting holistic wellbeing, nourishing cuisine, social wellness experiences, and deep-restorative sleep programs. New culinary offerings include The PuLi Bar & Grill and an intimate eight-seat omakase restaurant designed by Spin Design Studio. The Long Bar, a Shanghai institution, will relaunch with a sensory cocktail program blending East and West—concepts that will define future PuLi properties.
Selective Growth Across Asia and the World
The PuLi Group aims to selectively expand in key cities such as Seoul, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Singapore, and Bangkok, followed by global ventures including branded residences and retail. By 2035, the group plans to operate 20 hotels, with nine more in development, maintaining 80% of its footprint in Asia and 20% internationally.
Conclusion: A Vision for Understated Luxury
Drawing on the meaning of PuLi—“uncarved jade”—the group continues to champion understated elegance, thoughtful design, and deep cultural connection. Dean Winter’s leadership signals an ambitious yet authentic journey for The PuLi Group, as it transforms from Shanghai’s iconic hotel into a global portfolio redefining Asian luxury hospitality.
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