The Paxton Hotel Achieves Fair Trade Tourism Certification – A Beacon of Sustainable Accommodation in Nelson Mandela Bay
SATSA Member: Paxton Hotel - 1050
Product: Accommodation
Website: www.thepaxtonhotel.com
Press Release, 20 June 2025
Fair Trade Tourism (FTT) is proud to announce that the Paxton Hotel, a luxury beachfront property in Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), has officially achieved Fair Trade Tourism certification. This recognition places the hotel among a growing number of tourism businesses across Africa committed to ethical, sustainable, and responsible tourism practices.
Since opening its doors in 1998, the Paxton Hotel has become a well-known fixture in the Eastern Cape’s hospitality scene. Overlooking the bustling harbour of Algo Bay, the hotel offers 79 well-appointed rooms and an on-site restaurant that is popular with both leisure and business travellers. The Paxton is renowned for its exceptional service and warm Eastern Cape hospitality.
While the hotel has long incorporated sustainable practices, recent investments have significantly elevated its environmental performance. These include the installation of a comprehensive solar energy and water harvesting system, enabling the hotel to operate largely off-grid—a major step forward in reducing its ecological footprint. In addition, the hotel has introduced an electric vehicle (EV) charging station, aligning with the growing shift towards low-carbon transport solutions for guests.
“The Paxton Hotel’s journey to Fair Trade Tourism certification reflects a deep commitment to responsible tourism and sustainability,” said Grace Stead, General Manager at Fair Trade Tourism. “They didn’t just meet our rigorous standards—they embraced the process as a way to enhance their impact across people, planet, and place.”
Werner Peterseil, owner of The Paxton Hotel, shared his thoughts on the certification: “This certification is a proud moment for our entire team. It’s not just about meeting standards—it’s about living our values every day. I’ve seen our staff rise to the challenge, take ownership of our sustainability goals, and lead with passion and purpose. This is their achievement as much as it is the hotel’s, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together.”
for the penguins
The certification process required the hotel to demonstrate compliance with Fair Trade Tourism’s globally respected standards, with a strong emphasis on transparency, fair labour practices, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. The Paxton Hotel’s successful certification showcases how high-end hospitality can lead the way in offering travel experiences that are both luxurious and ethical.
Visitors to Port Elizabeth are encouraged to support certified tourism businesses like the Paxton Hotel—where every stay supports a better future for tourism in South Africa.
For bookings and more information:
Visit www.thepaxtonhotel.com , email reservations@thepaxtonhotel.com, or 041 585 9655.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePaxtonHotel/owner_reels/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepaxtonhotel/
About Fair Trade Tourism
Fair Trade Tourism is a pioneering certification body that promotes sustainable and responsible tourism across Africa. Its certification supports tourism businesses to operate ethically, ensuring fair wages, respect for human rights, environmental care, and positive contributions to local communities.
Media queries:
FTT: Grace Stead, 0767 80 70 10, grace@fairtradetourism.org
The Paxton Hotel: Werner Peterseil, 041 585 9655, werner@paxton.co.za
The Paxton Hotel: Pacentia Smith, 041 585 9655, revenue@paxton.co.za
