Accor to Introduce Sofitel, Novotel, and Novotel Living to Changzhou High Speed Rail New Town

Accor to Introduce Sofitel, Novotel, and Novotel Living to Changzhou High Speed Rail New Town

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on June 10, 2024

Accor Greater China, in collaboration with Changzhou High-Speed Railway Town and Changzhou High-Tech Group Co., Ltd., has announced a significant hospitality project in the burgeoning community of Changzhou High Speed Rail New Town. This ambitious development will see the introduction of three prominent Accor brands: Sofitel, Novotel, and Novotel Living, marking a major expansion in this key economic zone of Jiangsu province.

The new hospitality project aims to create a diverse and vibrant community in Changzhou High Speed Rail New Town, which is rapidly becoming one of the most crucial economic development zones in Changzhou. This area is strategically linked to the Yangtze River Delta Economic Zone and is known for its advancements in sustainable technology, artificial intelligence manufacturing, and various high-tech industries.

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Sofitel Changzhou will bring French luxury and sophistication to the heart of Star City, located next to Changzhou North Station. This hotel will feature 310 elegantly designed guest rooms, a luxurious spa and wellness center with a pool, an executive lounge, and a variety of dining options. Additionally, Sofitel Changzhou will offer extensive meeting facilities, including two elegant ballrooms ideal for weddings and special events. This establishment is set to become a beacon of luxury in an area surrounded by modern businesses, high-end offices, and tech enterprises.

In the nearby Changzhou International Talent Plaza, Accor will develop Novotel Changzhou and Novotel Living Changzhou. Novotel Changzhou will feature a 324-guestroom tower, providing a balanced and welcoming environment for travelers. The adjoining Novotel Living Changzhou will offer 223 rooms designed for extended stays, catering to the needs of modern travelers and young business professionals who prefer a home-like experience. Novotel Living is designed to offer comfortable, apartment-style accommodations, making it ideal for those who mix business with leisure and seek deeper connections with the local community.

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This project is part of Accor’s broader growth strategy in Greater China. The company recently celebrated the opening of its 700th hotel in the region, with plans to open more than 100 hotels by the end of the year and over 150 development projects currently underway. Gary Rosen, CEO of Accor Greater China, said “Accor is a market leader in matching the right brand with the right destination, in line with our partner’s development objectives. Working with Changzhou High-Tech Group, we have the ideal opportunity to create an inspired mix of luxury, midscale and extended stay hotels that we believe will be ideally suited to the vibrant and booming community of Changzhou High Speed Rail New Town.”

Ge Yafang, Secretary of the Party Committee and General Manager of Changzhou High-Speed Railway Town and Changzhou High-Tech Group, said “Accor is an obvious leader when it comes to offering a wide range of the world’s most renowned hospitality brands, such as Sofitel and Novotel, which we are excited to bring to the city of Changzhou. The addition of Novotel Living will add a modern and fresh spin on the hospitality experience, which is particularly important to the young business travelers who are increasingly traveling to Changzhou and wanting to connect with the local community.”

Accor’s entry into Changzhou High Speed Rail New Town with Sofitel, Novotel, and Novotel Living marks a pivotal moment in the area’s development. This project not only enhances the hospitality landscape but also supports the broader economic growth of this key region. 


Outletcity Metzingen Retains Top Spot as Germany’s Leading Outlet Destination

Outletcity Metzingen Retains Top Spot as Germany’s Leading Outlet Destination

By Hariharan U

Published on April 8, 2026

Reinforcing its position at the forefront of European retail, Outletcity Metzingen has once again been ranked as Germany’s leading outlet centre in the Outlet Centre Performance Report Europe 2025.

Published by ecostra in collaboration with French research institute magdus, the report highlights Metzingen’s consistent performance and growing influence across the European outlet landscape.

A major highlight this year is the recognition of Outletcity AG as Europe’s best operator for the sixth time since the study began. The operator category evaluates management professionalism, brand attractiveness, and the strength of partnerships with tenants, making it one of the most respected benchmarks in the industry.

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Speaking on the achievement, CEO Regine Schöllkopf-Pinakidis noted that the recognition reflects a continued commitment to excellence in brand management, service quality, and destination development. The strong endorsement from international partners further underlines the trust placed in Metzingen as a long-term retail hub.

On a broader European scale, Outletcity Metzingen has also secured a place among the top ten in the category of “Most Economically Successful Outlet Centre in Europe 2025.” Based on tenant feedback, this ranking positions the destination among the continent’s most impactful retail centres.

Widely recognised as Europe’s largest outlet destination, Metzingen continues to set benchmarks in destination management. Its strong portfolio of premium and luxury brands, along with the presence of the world’s largest BOSS store, enhances its appeal as a global shopping hotspot.

The latest recognition reflects a long-term strategy focused on consistent quality, a strong brand mix, and innovation across both physical and digital retail experiences. The destination’s sustained leadership in Germany is particularly notable, with no other outlet centre achieving a similar level of engagement from international brands.

This continued dominance highlights Outletcity Metzingen’s economic strength, brand appeal, and future-ready positioning in an increasingly competitive retail environment.

About AVIAREPS:

AVIAREPS is a global leader in aviation, tourism, and hospitality representation, with a presence across 76 offices in 71 countries. Founded in Germany in 1994, the company supports over 250 clients worldwide with services spanning sales, marketing, public relations, digital strategy, and business development, helping brands expand across international markets.


OZEN LIFE MAADHOO Elevates Wellness Travel with Personalised Journeys

OZEN LIFE MAADHOO Elevates Wellness Travel with Personalised Journeys

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 8, 2026

OZEN LIFE MAADHOO is redefining wellness travel with a personalised and intuitive approach to well-being through its ELE|NA Elements of Nature concept. Moving beyond traditional spa experiences, the resort focuses on individuality, offering tailored wellness journeys that reflect each guest’s unique needs.

At the centre of this offering is ELE|NA Elements of Nature, where experiences are designed around specific wellness archetypes. Instead of standardised treatments, guests can choose journeys that align with their goals, whether it is restoration, balance, vitality, or transformation.

Wellness at the resort extends beyond the spa, incorporating a wide range of holistic practices. Guests can engage in sound healing sessions using handpans and Tibetan bowls, along with energy healing therapies, breathwork, meditation, and mindful movement. These experiences are designed to restore harmony between the body and mind in a natural and immersive setting.

Education also plays a key role in the experience. Through wellness and sustainability workshops, guests are encouraged to adopt conscious living practices and holistic self-care routines that can be integrated into their daily lives. These sessions aim to create a deeper connection with well-being while promoting long-term health.

The culinary experience is equally aligned with the wellness philosophy. In collaboration with the resort’s culinary team, a dedicated menu blends Ayurvedic principles with modern techniques, focusing on nourishment, sustainability, and mindful sourcing. Each dish is crafted to complement the guest’s wellness journey.

Set within serene overwater treatment rooms, guests receive personalised care from skilled therapists using products that support holistic healing. The experience is further enhanced by the resort’s INDULGENCE Plan, which seamlessly combines wellness, dining, and curated island activities into a single, stress-free journey.

Commenting on the concept, Mei P. Pun, General Manager of OZEN LIFE MAADHOO, said, “Today’s discerning traveller seeks more than relaxation; they seek alignment. At OZEN LIFE MAADHOO, wellness is deeply personal. Through ELE|NA Elements of Nature’s archetype-led journeys, elemental therapies, and mindful culinary collaborations, we offer a destination where luxury and well-being exist in complete harmony, allowing our guests to reconnect with themselves in a truly meaningful way.”

With this approach, OZEN LIFE MAADHOO positions itself as a destination where wellness is not just an offering, but a way of life, combining personalised care, elemental balance, and refined island luxury.


We All Gotta Eat Appoints Chef Roel Alcudia as Culinary Director

We All Gotta Eat Appoints Chef Roel Alcudia as Culinary Director

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 8, 2026

We All Gotta Eat, the hospitality group founded by David and Josh Foulquier, has announced the appointment of Roel Alcudia as its Culinary Director. In his new role, Alcudia will oversee culinary strategy and innovation across all the group’s concepts, focusing on introducing new dishes while refining existing menus.

A globally respected chef and longtime mentor to David Foulquier, Alcudia’s appointment marks a significant step for the group as it continues to expand its presence. His return to Miami is seen as a full-circle moment, given his earlier contributions to the city’s dining scene.

Commenting on the development, David Foulquier said, “Roel has been one of the most important mentors in my career. Bringing him on as Culinary Director is incredibly meaningful - not just personally, but for the future of our restaurants. His perspective, discipline, and creativity will push us to the next level.”

With over two decades of experience across New York, Miami, and international markets, Alcudia brings a well-rounded culinary perspective. His career includes working with renowned chefs such as Scott Bryan and Jonathan Waxman, along with leadership roles in several high-profile hospitality groups.

Most recently, he served as Chef at Stissing House, which was recognised among The New York Times’ “50 Best Restaurants in America” and earned semifinalist honours from the James Beard Foundation. He has also played key roles in Miami as Corporate Executive Chef for Groot Hospitality, overseeing popular рестораны such as Komodo, Swan, and Papi Steak.

In addition, Alcudia contributed to the growth of Mandolin Aegean Bistro, helping expand the concept internationally in collaboration with Soho House.

In his new role, Alcudia will work closely with the leadership team to shape the group’s culinary identity, with a strong focus on seasonality, technique, and thoughtful menu development.

Known for his ingredient-driven approach, Alcudia blends tradition with innovation, aiming to create meaningful dining experiences rooted in culture and community.

“I’ve always believed that food is about connection - bringing people together and creating lasting experiences,” said Alcudia. “Joining We All Gotta Eat feels like joining family. I’m excited to collaborate, build, and contribute to the next chapter of these already impressionable restaurants.”

His appointment marks a new phase of growth for the group as it continues to strengthen its position in Miami’s evolving dining landscape.

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