AccorHotels opened 229 new hotels (totaling 36,172 rooms) in 2015, setting a record year of growth for the group. Equating to a rate of opening two hotels every three days, AccorHotels is set to continue on a strong growth trajectory with 160,000 rooms set to open in 2016.
AccorHotels accelerated expansion in 2015 focused on Asia Pacific, where 39 percent of the group’s rooms opened (14,000 new rooms) and Europe, accounting for 37 percent (13,500 new rooms). Last year also featured significant openings in key markets including North America, where the region’s first Pullman hotel, Pullman Miami Airport, opened in November; the announcement of the first Sofitel in Mexico, set to debut in 2017; and the introduction of Mexico’s ibis Styles Zona Rosa and its regional flagship, ibis Alameda.
Global Chief Development Officer for AccorHotels, Gaurav Bhushan, comments, “2015 was a historic year for AccorHotels’ expansion – we crossed the symbolic milestone of half a million rooms with a 20 percent increase in hotel openings last year. With a record 160,000 rooms in the pipeline, our objectives are to maintain profitable expansion, strengthen our presence in the countries where we are leaders, and acquire market share in emerging markets.”
2015 also marked a year of landmark deals for AccorHotels, including the high-profile agreement with the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), Kingdom Holding Company (KHC) of Saudi Arabia and Oxford Properties, for the acquisition of FRHI that owns 155 addresses under the upscale Fairmont, Raffles and Swissôtel brands by mid-2016. The group also acquired a 10.8 percent stake in China’s Huazhu Group, enabling AccorHotels’ to accelerate the development of its Grand Mercure, Novotel, Mercure, ibis and ibis Styles brands in China, Taiwan and Mongolia over the next five years.
Key openings in 2015
Pullman Miami Airport – Miami
AccorHotels introduced Pullman Miami Airport last December, North America’s first Pullman address. The 281-room hotel, previously home to Sofitel Miami, boasts a new, fresh design that highlights style, art, design and connectivity; appealing to a new generation of cosmopolitan and hyper-connected travelers.
Ibis Alameda – Mexico
Located in vibrant Mexico City, the hotel is ideal for both business and leisure guests who will enjoy being able to discover the city and return to a comfortable, friendly address. With 144 modern rooms, all equipped with the Sweet BedTM, its collaborative spaces offer the ibis hotels’ trademark high standard of service, a unique factor in the economy segment.
ibis Styles Zona Rosa – Mexico
Strategically located in one of the most lively and diverse neighborhoods of Mexico City, Zona Rosa, the hotel pays homage to Mexican culture through its playful design details. With 79 rooms that offer three different accommodation styles, the hotel is ideal for multi-generational travelers who want a modern, fun and fresh environment.
Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa – Singapore
Revealing a fresh restoration and perched on a clifftop overlooking Tanjong beach, the resort is located on the idyllic island of Sentosa. With 211 rooms and suites, and four villas that each have their own terrace, garden and private swimming pool, the resort boasts the world’s largest So SPA and offers guests a profound well-being experience.
Hotel Cures Marines MGallery Collection by Sofitel – France
Located on one of Normandy’s most beautiful beaches, the hotel was restored to its former splendor in 2015 and combines the grace and radiance of yesteryear luxury with present-day modernity. Johan Thyriot, the new chef at its restaurant “Le 1912,” takes guests on a culinary journey through unusual yet rhythmed flavors, full of finesse and harmony.
Novotel Manila Araneta Center – Philippines
As Novotel’s first address in the Philippines, its strategic location in the city of Quezon appeals to both business and leisure travelers. With 401 rooms and suites, the hotel is currently Quezon’s largest hotel and boasts a sky bar with 360 degree views of the city.
Flagship openings in 2016
Hotel Paris Bastille Boutet MGallery Collection by Sofitel – France
Recently joining the MGallery collection of inspired and unique hotels, the property is nestled on a quaint street, around the corner from the Faubourg Saint-Antoine, one of Paris’ oldest arteries. Its 80 exceptional rooms and four suites offer unmatched comfort for both business and Parisian escapades. The spa, swimming pool, Turkish bath and sauna also promise guests an experience devoted to wellness and tranquility.
Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 – Thailand: opening May 2016
Strategically located in the bustling neighborhood of Sukhumvit, the 244-room hotel will offer guests a perfect living space in the heart of the capital city. The property boasts a rooftop bar, two restaurants, a pool and bar on the 9th floor, and 11 meeting rooms.
Sofitel Frankfurt Opera – Germany: opening September 2016
This 150-room modern grand hotel associated with art, culture and charm, boasts a prime location on the Opernplatz with breath-taking views of the old opera house. Offering the elegance and luxury of a palace, the property reflects the spirit of Parisian nobility in the 17th and 18th centuries, and features a fine dining restaurant inspired by the classic Parisian bistro.
Mercure Maldives Koodoo Resort – Maldives: opening in late 2016
As AccorHotels’ first address in the Maldives and located in the Gaafu Alifu Atoll district, the resort is inspired by its local culture and will feature 68 villas each offering spectacular views of the lagoon and white sand beaches. The hotel’s restaurant, swimming pool, bars, spa, fitness room and selection of watersports, including scuba diving, will ensure that guests enjoy an unforgettable stay.
