Le MŽridien Melbourne enters in Australia

Marriott InternationalÊtoday announced the signing of Le MŽridien Melbourne, in partnership with owner and developer Jinshan Investment Group. Slated to open in 2020, the 235-room hotel will boast the brand’s distinct mid-century modern approach to design and bold ÔDestination Unlocked’ positioning. This signing reinforces Le MŽridien’s global growth, following recent openings in Italy, South Korea, China and the United States, all within the last 12 months.

ÒThe arrival of Le MŽridien into Australia is a momentous move for Marriott International,Ó said Richard Crawford, Senior Director Development, Australia, New Zealand and Pacific, Marriott International. ÒIt comes at a perfect time. Alongside Melbourne’s growing demand from domestic travellers, new international direct routes from the United States, Asia-Pacific and South America are driving continued growth in international visitation.Ó

Perfectly situated amidst art galleries, boutiques and bistros, Le MŽridien Melbourne will be located near the city’s cultural centre, fronting the Bourke/Spring Street tram stop and a stone’s throw from Victoria’s Parliament Square. The 12-storey hotel converted from an existing low-rise building will draw inspiration from both the brand and Melbourne’s light, airy and modern nature.

The intimate and residential hotel will transform the traditional lobby space into the brand’s signature Le MŽridien Hub, which evolves from a bright and fresh coffee house by day, to a sophisticated cocktail bar by night. Set amidst this thoughtfully-designed space, guests will be able to enjoy music from French Bossa Nova band Nouvelle Vague, who have curated the soundtrack for the hotel and all Le MŽridien hotels across the world, as well as the intimate 70-seat bar called M Salon and 50-seat Latitude Bar, which will offer light bites and illy coffee, expertly prepared by the hotel’s creative Master Barista.

Le MŽridien Melbourne will also feature Cuisines, a 90-seat all-day dining restaurant; a 210-square metre function space and three breakout rooms; a heated swimming pool and a large fitness centre.

ÒMarriott International is pleased to reintroduce Le MŽridien to Australia, in particular to Melbourne,Ó said Sean Hunt, Area Vice President, Marriott International, Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific. ÒMelbourne is known as one of Australia’s most European-style cities, especially with its art, culture and food attractions. As a Parisian-born brand focused on unlocking a destination, Le MŽridien is the perfect fit for the city and the hotel is set to become a landmark for cultural-focused travellers visiting Melbourne.Ó

ÒWe’re excited to partner with Marriott International to open Le MŽridien Melbourne,Ó said Tony Chau, Project Manager, Jinshan Investment Group. ÒThe brand’s focus on culture will provide a distinctive offering for visitors to Melbourne; it was always our intention to partner with a brand with such an exceptional point of difference. Le MŽridien Melbourne will play a significant role in catering to cosmopolitan and forward-looking travellers to the city.Ó

Upon opening, Le MŽridien Melbourne will join Marriott International’s growing portfolio in the Pacific, with 27 hotels in operation, including Le MŽridien Isle of Pines and Le MŽridien NoumŽa. Marriott International also operates two Le MŽridien hotels in the South Pacific; Le MŽridien Bora Bora and Le MŽridien Tahiti. The new opening comes as part of Marriott International’s commitment to open 50 hotels in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific by the end of 2021.