Accor’s response to this trend can be seen in properties like Pullman Singapore Hill Street, Mercure Tokyo Hibiya, Tribe Phnom Penh Post Office Square, and ibis Styles Bangkok Silom. “These hotels combine vibrant social spaces, local culture, and cutting-edge design to create memorable experiences. Owners see the value in design-led spaces, which not only enhance guest satisfaction but also boost operational performance,” says Langdon.
The global hospitality industry is experiencing a revival as it recovers from the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. Leading this resurgence are major players like Accor, which has strategically aligned itself with the latest trends to meet evolving guest expectations and capitalise on emerging opportunities in the post-pandemic world. In a recent e-mail interview, Andrew Langdon, chief development officer, Asia at Accor, highlighted three significant trends reshaping the hospitality landscape: design and brand differentiation, the conversion of unbranded hotels to internationally branded properties, and the asset-light franchising model. These trends, along with major tourism-driving events, are fuelling the industry’s revival.
One of the most prominent trends in hospitality is the growing emphasis on design and brand differentiation. Travellers today expect more than just a functional space to stay; they seek experiences that reflect the identity of the brand and the local culture. This shift towards lifestyle-driven stays has prompted Accor to elevate the design elements in its Premium, Mid-scale and Economy (PM&E) hotel segments, creating distinctive experiences that resonate with guests.
