The Pillar and Post is one of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s most iconic and beloved landmarks, exuding charm and elegance through its stunning architecture, impeccable service, and rich history. Its roots date back to the late 19th century, when the Niagara region was known for its thriving agriculture and production of high-quality fruits and vegetables.
The Original Caning Factory
In the 1890s, the land where the Pillar and Post stands today was home to a bustling canning factory. The factory was part of a network of businesses in the Niagara region that canned and preserved locally-grown fruits and vegetables, which were then shipped across Canada and beyond.
The factory’s location was strategic, as it was situated close to the Niagara River, which allowed produce to be transported efficiently.
From Factory to Inn
As time passed, the demand for canned goods declined, and the canning factory became less profitable. In the early 1900s, the building was sold to a local businessman who had the vision of transforming it into a hotel. The building’s sturdy construction and prime location made it an ideal candidate for a hotel conversion, and so began the transformation process.
The building was completely renovated and expanded, with impressive new features such as a towering clock tower and grand entrance. The hotel was named the “Pillar and Post Inn” in honor of the building’s original use as a canning factory where wooden pillars were used to support the heavy cans of produce that were stacked on top of each other.
For decades, the Pillar and Post Inn was a hotspot for tourists and locals alike, attracting guests with its luxurious rooms, fine dining, and picturesque location in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
The Vintage Hotel Era
In 1972, the Pillar and Post Inn underwent another transformation that would make it the luxurious Vintage Hotel that we know and love today. Under new ownership, the hotel underwent a multi-million dollar renovation that aimed to elevate the hotel to a new level of luxury.
The renovation retained the building’s historic charm and character, while also introducing modern amenities and features. The hotel’s rooms were expanded and modernized, and new amenities such as a fully-equipped spa, an indoor pool, and a state-of-the-art conference center were added.
Today, the Pillar and Post is a five-star hotel that continues to set the standard for luxury accommodations in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Its historic charm and elegant amenities make it a top choice for discerning travelers who want to experience the best that the region has to offer.
The Bottom Line
If you’re planning a trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake and want to experience a piece of the region’s rich history, the Pillar and Post is a must-visit destination. With its fascinating past, stunning architecture, and luxurious amenities, it’s no wonder that this iconic hotel has remained a beloved destination for over a century.
FAQ
Who owns the vintage hotels?
Vintage Hotels is a chain of luxury hotels located in the Niagara-on-the-Lake region of Ontario, Canada. This chain includes a collection of three distinctive properties, including the Prince of Wales Hotel & Spa, the Queen’s Landing Hotel, and the Pillar and Post Inn, which have gained popularity over the years for their excellent service, elegant accommodations, and luxurious amenities.
Currently, the Vintage Hotels are owned by the Lais Group of Companies, operating under Lais Hotel Properties Limited. The Lais Group is a family-owned real estate development and management company that has been active in the Niagara region for over 30 years. The group specializes in developing unique real estate projects and has a reputation for delivering high-quality properties that meet the needs and preferences of its customers.
The Vintage Hotel properties were initially purchased by the Lais Group in 1998, and since then, they have invested heavily in upgrading and expanding the hotels to meet the demands of the changing market. With the support of their experienced team of professionals, the Lais Group has transformed the Vintage Hotels into a collection of luxurious and sophisticated properties that are sought-after by discerning travelers from all over the world.
The Lais Group takes great pride in the Vintage Hotels’ success and continues to invest in new projects that enhance the region’s tourism industry. The Vintage Hotels’ guests can expect to enjoy exceptional service, unique experiences, and the utmost comfort and luxury during their stay, thanks to the Lais Group’s commitment to delivering the highest quality accommodations. the Vintage Hotels’ ownership by the Lais Group has played a significant role in their continued success and popularity and is a key part of the Niagara region’s tourism industry.
Who is the Chinese owner of Niagara-on-the-Lake?
The Chinese owner of Niagara-on-the-Lake is a woman named Si Wai Lai. At the age of 49, Lai is a successful businesswoman who hails from Guangzhou, China. She is a proud owner of Niagara-on-the-Lake, a charming town located in Southern Ontario, Canada. Niagara-on-the-Lake is a popular tourist destination, known for its picturesque beauty and historical significance. It is home to several heritage sites, wineries, and natural attractions.
Lai takes personal interest in the upkeep and maintenance of Niagara-on-the-Lake. She values cleanliness and gives utmost attention to the details. Inside the lobby, she can often be seen stooping to pick gum wrappers off the carpet and straightening the flowers. Her attention to detail ensures that the town remains beautiful and welcoming to both residents and visitors.
Being an immigrant, Lai has had her struggles, but she has overcome them through determination and hard work. She started her business career by importing Chinese goods to Canada. Later, she ventured into real estate, and within a few years, she had found success. Lai’s success did not go unnoticed, and she became one of the few immigrants to win the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012.
In Canada, Lai has become a role model for the Asian community and other immigrants who aspire to succeed. Through her entrepreneurship, she has made significant contributions to the Canadian economy by creating jobs and helping to revitalize communities.
Si Wai Lai is a successful businesswoman of Chinese origin who has contributed significantly to the Canadian economy. As the owner of Niagara-on-the-Lake, she has become an integral part of the community, ensuring that the town remains beautiful and welcoming to everyone. Her story of success serves as an inspiration to all Canadians and immigrants who dream big and work hard to achieve their goals.
What is vintage hotels or Niagara’s Finest hotel?
Vintage Hotels is a prestigious collection of luxury hotels that are situated in four locations in Ontario, Canada – Niagara-on-the-Lake, Caledon, Jordan and Stratford. The hotels are known for their outstanding levels of comfort, world-class service, award-winning cuisine and exclusive spa facilities. Vintage Hotels consists of three elegant hotels- the Prince of Wales, the Queen’s Landing and the Pillar and Post which have been beautifully restored to reflect their original character and charm, and the newest addition, the Millcroft Inn and Spa located in Caledon.
Each of the hotels has its own unique personality and features, but they are all rooted in the same philosophy of providing a sophisticated blend of modern amenities with charming vintage elements. Guests who stay at any of the Vintage Hotels locations are guaranteed to experience an unforgettable stay filled with all kinds of luxurious comforts and amenities.
If you’re looking for extraordinary fine dining, Vintage Hotels offers some of the finest restaurants in all of Ontario. With a focus on using locally sourced, fresh ingredients, the hotels’ kitchens offer a range of culinary experiences that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you fancy a leisurely afternoon tea, a hearty Sunday brunch or an intimate gourmet dinner, Vintage Hotels has you covered.
Apart from exceptional food, Vintage Hotels provides guests with access to some of the most luxurious spa facilities, where they can be pampered with various types of therapeutic and beauty treatments. From rejuvenating massages and relaxing facials to restorative body wraps and baths, Vintage Hotels spas provide a perfect escape from day-to-day stresses.
Vintage Hotels is a highly esteemed collection of luxury hotels that prides itself on providing a unique blend of vintage sophistication with modern luxury. If you are looking for a one of a kind hotel experience, consider choosing one of the Vintage Hotels or Niagara’s Finest Hotels.
Who owns the Lais group?
Lais Group, also known as Lais Hotels Properties Limited (LHPL), is a hotel management company that operates luxury boutique hotels and resorts in Asia and Europe. When it comes to the question of who owns the Lais group, the answer is Bob Jackson. Bob is the CEO and a Board Director of LHPL since 2009.
Bob Jackson is a seasoned corporate and executive leader with over 25 years of experience. He is responsible for overseeing the overall financial and operational performance of the business. Under his leadership, Lais Group has expanded its footprint in Europe and Asia, and today operates several properties, including the Lapis Casa Luxury Hotel, Lapis Lazuli Hotel Istanbul, and the Lais Hotel in Shanghai.
While Bob Jackson is the face of the Lais Group, it is important to note that the company is backed by several investors, including private equity firms and high net worth individuals. However, the exact ownership structure of the Lais Group is not publicly disclosed.
Bob Jackson owns the Lais Group and has played a crucial role in its growth and expansion in the luxury hotel industry. The company’s success can be attributed to his leadership skills and experience in the industry. While the specific ownership structure of the Lais Group is unknown, it is clear that the company has a solid backing from several investors.
Who are the directors of Vintage Inns?
Vintage Inns is a restaurant chain that operates in the United Kingdom specializing in traditional pub food and real ale. The company is a subsidiary of Mitchells & Butlers, the largest operator of restaurants, pubs, and bars in the UK. The current Managing Director of Vintage Inns is Robbie Tallon, a seasoned executive with extensive experience in the hospitality industry.
Robbie Tallon has been with Mitchells & Butlers for over 10 years, working in various roles throughout the organization. Prior to his current role as Managing Director of Vintage Inns, Tallon was the Brand Director for the company’s Crown Carveries brand. His success in that role led to his promotion to Managing Director of Vintage Inns in 2018.
As Managing Director of Vintage Inns, Tallon is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the restaurant chain, as well as setting its long-term strategic direction. He is joined by a team of experienced executives and managers who help ensure that Vintage Inns delivers high-quality food and drink, exceptional service, and a welcoming atmosphere to its customers.
The directors of Vintage Inns are led by Managing Director Robbie Tallon. His leadership and expertise, along with the support of his team, have helped Vintage Inns become a popular and successful restaurant chain in the UK.
Who owns Queen’s Landing?
Queen’s Landing is a luxurious hotel and conference center that is situated in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada. For those who may be wondering, Queen’s Landing is currently owned by Si Wai Lai, a prominent businessman and the owner of Pillar and Post Inn, Spa, and Conference Centre. The hotel is a popular destination for travelers who seek high-end amenities and breathtaking views of Niagara-on-the-Lake and Lake Ontario.
The property was previously owned by a group of investors who decided to sell it to the Pillar and Post Inn, Spa, and Conference Centre, another hotel owned by Mr. Si Wai Lai. However, the amount of money exchanged for the transaction was not disclosed to the public. Despite the change in ownership, Queen’s Landing has maintained its reputation as a premier hotel and conference center, renowned for its luxurious facilities and exceptional service.
Queen’s Landing has become an attraction for tourists from all over the world, thanks to its prime location and unique architecture. The hotel is styled as a Georgian mansion with a stunning garden and a picturesque lakefront view. It provides guests with a world-class restaurant, a bar, and a lounge area. Its rooms are well-furnished with modern amenities, including flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, and coffee makers, to mention a few.
Queen’S Landing is owned by Si Wai Lai, the owner of the Pillar and Post Inn, Spa, and Conference Centre, who purchased it from a group of investors for an undisclosed amount. With its luxurious facilities, stunning views, and exceptional service, Queen’s Landing remains a top destination for people who seek a luxurious and comfortable getaway in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
