Accor to open new hotels in iconic London sites

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Accor, the world’s leading hotel operator and market leader in Europe, is pleased to announce two prime location London hotels, right in the centre of Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square, following the signing of a franchise agreement with Criterion Capital Group who will develop the two properties.This is further proof of Accor’s focus on the UK market where it has announced the openings of 23 hotels in the past 2 years.

ibis Styles Piccadilly Circus, will be located within Criterion Capital’s world famous Trocadero complex, at the very heart of London’s famous West End. The 583 room hotel will open in 2017, following an extensive renovation of the existing building, and will offer a distinctly ‘London’ personality reflecting the colourful, bright and energetic brand persona of the ibis Styles brand, with a hint of humour perfectly matching the electric eccentricity of the Trocadero. The historic London landmark’s proximity to leisure, commercial and retail areas within the West End is second to none and will become a go-to location for London travellers.

The ibis Styles brand is providing dynamic growth for Accor with a network that comprises over 250 budget hotels in 21 countries. Guests are offered the “best of the best” with an all inclusive package that offers room rates, breakfast and internet access.

MGallery Leicester Square, an 80 room hotel within Criterion Capital’s beautiful Victory House, a heritage site overlooking Leicester Square – the cultural epicenter of London, is scheduled to be opened at the end of 2016. Located amidst London’s leading theatres, designer boutiques and top restaurants, the upscale boutique hotel, which will form part of the MGallery Collection, is the ideal choice for those wanting a distinctive experience in the heart of the vibrant West End. The hotel’s unique personality will exude through its architecture, deluxe interior design and exemplary services.

Criterion Capital is the largest landlord in the Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus corridor.

The two properties will be developed by Criterion Capital and Accor under a franchise agreement.

Thomas Dubaere, Managing Director, Accor UK & Ireland, said: “We are delighted with these two new locations in the heart of London, further advancing our ambitious UK expansion plans. The hotels will take inspiration from the buzz and excitement of Soho – the most vibrant neighbourhood in the world – and will bring a new lease of life to these historically significant London sites.

“We are pleased to be able to extend our relationship with Criterion by offering a franchise agreement. Accor is a trusted partner committed to its growing franchise network and these new franchises are further proof of the strength of the Accor brands.”

Asif Aziz, from Criterion Capital, said : “We are pleased to work with Accor. These two hotel projects are part of our strategy for Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus and demonstrate the ongoing attraction of Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus to the capital’s visitors.”

Daniel Fountain / 25.09.2014

Editor, Hotel Designs

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