Image: Centara Grand Island Resort and Spa Maldives

Centara Hotels and Resorts is planning to expand its Asian portfolio to 100 properties over the next five years as part of efforts to become one of the region's leading operators.

The group is a division of Central Group - one of Thailand's leading retail conglomerates - and opened its first hotel nearly 30 years ago in Bangkok's Ladprao district.

It currently has a portfolio of 55 hotels and resorts - both managed and owned - across the Asia Pacific region, although some of these are in the pre-opening phase.

Centara has set a target of acquiring more than 45 hotels and resorts over the next five years, having reached its initial aim of 50 properties - announced in 2008 - a year early.

The plans - based on being "asset light" and securing more management deals - focus on leading destinations and includes members of ASEAN Economic Community from 2015.

In addition to major cities in the Indian Ocean region, Centara is considering moves into the Middle East, Oceania and gateway cities in Europe.

A spokesperson said: "Centara's focus has been on expanding its five-star and four-star brands, but the recent advent of the Centra value brand, and the launch later this year of a new economy hotel brand, is greatly broadening the range of options.

"The launch last year of the Centara Boutique Collection brand and the Centara Residence brand has also spread the potential."

• Earlier this month (July), Centara launched its Cense by SPA Cenvaree value spa brand - the first of which will open at Centara Hotel and Convention Centre Khon Kaen, Thailand.

Click here for more information about Centara Hotels and Resorts.