There is a certain dignity to a hotel that has been around for over a century, through times of war, peace, and epic celebrations. Historic landmark hotels such as Raffles Singapore, The Savoy in London, and The Plaza in New York, are richly embroidered with the stories of their cultures and communities, providing guests with a connection to the past, cherished by locals and visitors alike.
Around the world, only seven global hospitality brands can claim a history of 100+ years – and remarkably, four are owned and operated by Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,600 properties in more than 110 countries.
Orient Express was founded in 1883 as a legendary train experience connecting cities across Europe and Asia. Accor has reimagined the Orient Express brand as a collection of prestigious hotels, train journeys, and yacht experiences. Raffles Hotels & Resorts introduced the world to a cultured experience of travel with the opening of Raffles Singapore in 1887. Fairmont Hotels & Resorts was born in 1907, when sisters Virginia Fair Vanderbilt and Theresa Fair Oelrichs built Fairmont San Francisco atop Nob Hill. Pullman Hotels & Resorts is the world’s most chronicled brand in hospitality, established in 1867 as a luxury passenger train service which has evolved into a global network of premium hotels with a pioneering spirit.
Pullman Doha West Bay – Qatar
“These Accor brands are the real deal; they provide authenticity and credibility that cannot be faked. They transcend generations, expand horizons and have played an important role in creating memories that will last forever,” said Sébastien Bazin, Group Chairman & CEO, Accor. “To borrow from the composer Gustav Mahler, we believe that history must be kept alive, like a burning torch that inspires new experiences for each generation. Our iconic brands and hotels continue to spark imagination with their sophistication, glamor, and gravitas – while providing guest journeys that are thoroughly modern.”
Fairmont San Francisco - USA
Food and drink is a key area where Accor’s heritage brands stay ahead of the curve. Collaborations with Chef Nobu Matsuhisa has brought his signature Japanese fusion cuisine to Fairmont Monte Carlo with Nobu Monte Carlo restaurant and Matsuhisa Paris at Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris. Meanwhile, Fairmont restaurants are gathering Michelin stars, such as Haerlin (2 stars) at Fairmont Hamburg; Addison (3 stars) at Fairmont Grand Del Mar; and JAAN by Kirk Westaway (2 stars) at Fairmont Singapore.
“Our vision is to honor the diverse personalities and histories redolent in each of our heritage brands, thoughtfully evolving them to remain relevant among multiple generations, while retaining the characteristics that have made each so timeless and beloved,” said Agnès Roquefort, Global Chief Development Officer of Accor’s Luxury & Lifestyle division.
One of the latest examples of Accor’s talent for mixing the profoundness of the past with the glamor of the au courant, is Raffles London at The OWO. The Grade II* listed former Old War Office in Whitehall has emerged as the ultimate luxury destination for Londoners. With 120 rooms and suites, 85 residences, nine restaurants (three by Michelin-starred chef Mauro Colagreco), three cocktail bars, the hotel also boasts the UK’s first Guerlain Spa and Pillar Wellbeing center – led by personal trainer to the stars, Harry Jameson. The hotel’s finest suites are in the former offices of Winston Churchill and John Profumo.
“Along with the great privilege of stewarding such historic brands and hotels, comes great responsibility – we tread carefully to protect the legacy and the future of our most precious places,” added Roquefort. “Accor's dedication to meticulous restoration processes, sustainable development practices, and environmentally-sensitive hotel operations, reflects our unwavering commitment to enhancing the vitality of the areas we serve.”
With eco-certification of its entire global network of hotels currently underway, Accor recently led the 95-year old Fairmont Royal York in Toronto through the largest heritage hotel retrofit in North America – achieving a Zero Carbon Building - Performance Standard™ by the Canada Green Building Council. This transformative project reduces the hotel’s annual carbon emissions by over 7,000 tons – the equivalent of taking 1,558 cars off the road.
While Accor’s century-old brands may be the oldest and wisest, they aren’t the only ones with longevity among Accor’s portfolio of 45+ hospitality brands. This year, Sofitel Hotels & Resorts celebrates its 60th anniversary. The first international luxury hotel brand from France, Sofitel is a global ambassador of French style, culture, and art de vivre.
Accor itself has provided hospitality savoir-faire for more than 50 years and is committed to creating the hospitality of tomorrow. This includes leading the way with positive hospitality experiences and environmentally-friendly operations, so guests can feel good about traveling in style, ethically and responsibly. By preserving the fire at the heart of its rare and time-honored heritage brands, Accor is ensuring that future generations will continue to enjoy the glow.