In 2018, Accor witnessed an historic year, with a record number of hotel openings and signings and the acquisition of 14 new brands. The augmented hospitality group opened 100,000 guestrooms, including both organic growth and acquisitions, and signed agreements to manage almost 500 new hotels, representing 110 more than in 2017.
Accor not only significantly strengthened its international footprint and crossed the 100-country milestone, but created one of the industry’s largest and most diverse portfolio of brands, covering every segment, from economy to luxury. It also dramatically strengthened its position in the lifestyle sector, global demand for which is robust.
In the Middle East and Africa (MEA), one of Accor’s fastest-growing markets for development, the acquisitions have bolstered its portfolio to more than 260 properties with 60,000-plus rooms across 36 countries region wide (as of April 8, 2019).
They have also provided a springboard for accelerated growth, with more than 20 projects opening in 2019 alone.
Looking ahead, the group is eyeing strong development opportunities for its now unrivalled portfolio of residences, extended-stay and lifestyle brands, and assessing the growth potential for all-inclusive luxury resorts.
“2018 was an outstanding year for Accor with brand acquisitions and new hotel signings consolidating our leadership position in the Middle East and Africa and providing travellers with an unparalleled choice of innovative world-class hospitality concepts,” explains Chief Executive Officer, MEA, Mark Willis
“We continue to build on these achievements in 2019 as we open a raft of new properties and identify opportunities to rapidly expand our portfolio of new and existing brands.”
Willis added; “There is a strong consumer appetite for innovative hotels, residences and resorts that have a distinct lifestyle and entertainment element and pinpointing growth markets for each will become a focal point of our development strategy for the region going forward.”