Starwood is to open a new 400-room W Hotel in Pudong, Shanghai's central financial district. The newly built hotel, scheduled for opening in 2008, is the first W in China and the 28th in the group since the brand's debut in 1998.

With a promise of avant-garde architecture and design, an excellent location in Pudong – the central financial district of Shanghai – coupled with the signature style and hospitality for which the W brand is known, W Shanghai – Pudong, is expected to become one of Shanghai's most recognizable landmarks, said Ross Klein, President of W Hotels.

Developed by Sun Hung Kai Properties Limited, W Shanghai – Pudong will be located right in the heart of Shanghai's central financial district. W Shanghai – Pudong will feature exciting dining, nightlife and entertainment options for which the brand is known, complete with a spa, meeting space, and a W retail store.

Currently there are 20 W hotels worldwide in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, New Orleans, San Francisco, Seattle, Honolulu, Silicon Valley, Atlanta, San Diego, Sydney and Mexico City.