Salter Brothers chooses Accor for Travelodge hotels

A big bet on the future of hospitality when the deal was struck last July, the punt pays off as the sector’s recovery gains momentum, propelled by the end of lockdowns and the opening up borders.

Although challenges remain, demand is strengthening and will be helped by the return to offices, Mr Salter said. Leisure travel is already bouncing at other Salter hotels.

In what could be a first in the Australian market, the Accor agreement includes ESG goals for green energy sourcing, waste and energy, water reduction and most importantly workforce diversity.

“It’s a sign of things to come in the industry,” Mr. Salter said.

The portfolio will join Accor’s existing network of 340 hotels in Australia, leveraging the benefits of the Paris-based giant’s global network. This is Accor’s largest integration since its acquisition of Mantra Group for $1.2 billion in 2018.

“These hotels are located in incredible central locations and in the best metropolitan areas and we are working with Salter Brothers to reinvigorate the portfolio, preparing them for success with the next generation of travelers and signaling our confidence in the return of travel from ‘business,’ said Accor Pacific chief executive Sarah Derry.