Mercure Celebrates 1,000th Hotel Milestone as Global Expansion Continues

Mercure Celebrates 1,000th Hotel Milestone as Global Expansion Continues

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on November 5, 2024

Mercure Hotels, part of Accor’s portfolio, has reached a major milestone with the opening of its 1,000th hotel worldwide. This achievement showcases Mercure’s growth and reinforces its position as a key midscale brand within Accor’s extensive collection. With a focus on authentic, locally inspired experiences, Mercure continues to play an essential role in Accor’s strategy of providing diverse lodging options that connect guests with their destinations.

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The milestone was marked by recent openings across various global markets. New additions include Mercure London Earls Court in the U.K., which features 282 rooms infused with British pop culture themes; Mercure Chandigarh Tribune Chowk in India, blending modern amenities with local flair; and Mercure Fukuoka Munakata Resort & Spa in Japan, emphasizing relaxation and scenic beauty.

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Jean-Jacques Morin, Accor’s Group Deputy CEO, highlighted the brand’s achievements, noting, “2024 has been a transformative year for Mercure. The opening of our 1,000th destination confirms the status of a brand that has one of the largest international midscale hotel portfolios. We look forward to seeing how far this attractive and energetic brand will go over the next fifty years.”

The Mercure brand has evolved significantly since the opening of its first hotel in Saint-Witz, France, in 1973. Acquired by Accor in 1975, Mercure expanded rapidly in Europe and internationally, reaching markets such as Southeast Asia and the Middle East by the 1990s. The brand celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2023 by doubling down on its “Discover Local” program, which encourages guests to engage with local culture through specially curated experiences and regional culinary offerings.

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Recent developments include Mercure's expansion in Asia, particularly in Japan and China. In Japan, the brand opened 11 new properties in 2024, such as Mercure Kyoto Miyazu Resort & Spa, showcasing the blend of tradition and modernity. In China, Mercure strengthened its presence with properties like Mercure Nantong Renmin Road, combining contemporary design with local influences.

Mercure's emphasis on local culture is evident in new openings such as Mercure Dubai Deira in the UAE, which offers 152 rooms and a rooftop pool, featuring locally inspired cuisine. In Europe, the Mercure London Earls Court integrates British cultural elements into its design, appealing to both tourists and locals.

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Camil Yazbeck, Chief Development Officer for Accor's Premium, Midscale, and Economy Division, emphasized the brand’s strong partnerships, stating, “It is our valuable partnerships with Mercure hotel owners that fuel the brand’s dynamism and give life to a community of passionate hoteliers.”

Looking forward, Mercure has over 200 properties in development, reflecting the brand’s popularity and demand in the midscale hotel segment. 


Essentia Hotels & Resorts Expands Footprint with Upcoming Nagpur Property

Essentia Hotels & Resorts Expands Footprint with Upcoming Nagpur Property

By Hariharan U

Published on April 16, 2026

Essentia Hotels & Resorts is set to expand its growing portfolio with a new property in Nagpur, marking its entry into one of Central India’s emerging hospitality markets.

Known for its thoughtfully curated hospitality experiences, Essentia aims to introduce a property that blends contemporary elegance with functional design. The upcoming hotel is envisioned to cater to both business and leisure travellers, offering a refined yet welcoming stay experience aligned with modern expectations.

Often regarded as the heart of India, Nagpur is steadily evolving into a dynamic urban centre where cultural heritage meets modern development. With its serene lakes, spiritual landmarks, and historical attractions, the city presents a balanced mix of vibrancy and calmmaking it an attractive destination for both corporate and leisure travel.

Bringing its signature philosophy of “distinctive destination experience” to the city, Essentia’s new property will focus on combining contemporary sensibilities with intuitive service. The development aims to create a space that reflects comfort, sophistication, and attention to detail, while remaining rooted in a deep understanding of evolving guest preferences.

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Commenting on the expansion, Mohammed Parvez said, “Nagpur represents a compelling growth story, and we are delighted to be part of its evolving narrative. Our vision has always been to create destinations that resonate with their surroundings while offering a sense of familiarity and comfort that today’s travellers seek.”

With this move, Essentia continues to align its growth strategy with emerging Indian cities that are redefining the country’s hospitality landscape. The Nagpur property is expected to reflect the brand’s commitment to “Affordable Luxury,” delivering thoughtfully designed spaces, sincere service, and meaningful guest experiences.

Founded in 2018 under the aegis of Aaverina Hospitality Private Limited and headquartered in Bengaluru, Essentia Hotels & Resorts has been steadily building a reputation for delivering contemporary hospitality experiences rooted in design, service, and human connection.


Novotel Hyderabad Airport Secures Green Key Renewal for Third Consecutive Year

Novotel Hyderabad Airport Secures Green Key Renewal for Third Consecutive Year

By Hariharan U

Published on April 15, 2026

Novotel Hyderabad Airport has successfully renewed its Green Key Certification for the third consecutive year, reaffirming its long-term commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable hospitality. The hotel also holds the distinction of being the first in South India and the third in the country to receive this globally recognised eco-label.

Unlike one-time accolades, the Green Key renewal demands consistent year-on-year progress across key sustainability metrics. From energy efficiency and water conservation to waste management and community engagement, the certification reflects measurable impact and continuous improvement.

At the core of the hotel’s approach is a structured sustainability framework that integrates eco-conscious practices into daily operations, infrastructure, and guest experiences. Over time, the property has implemented several impactful initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint.

Energy efficiency measures include the use of 100% non-CFC coolants for air conditioning and the installation of over 6,000 LED bulbs across the property. Solar energy plays a significant role, with 200 solar panels powering water heating systems to meet the building’s requirements.

Water conservation remains a major focus area. With 1,500 aerators installed, the hotel saves up to 10,000 litres of water daily. Rainwater harvesting systems contribute to groundwater recharge, while treated water from the in-house sewage treatment plant is reused for landscaping, accounting for nearly 140 kilolitres per day.

The hotel has also embraced circular, low-waste practices. Its in-house water bottling plant using glass bottles helps eliminate nearly 30,000 plastic bottles each month. Organic waste is converted into manure for a 2,500 sq. ft. herb garden, which supports the hotel’s culinary operations and is maintained using recycled water.

In line with greener mobility, the property offers EV charging infrastructure and electric vehicles for guest transport, along with eco-friendly cycling options that encourage low-impact exploration.

Commenting on the milestone, Sukhbir Singh, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Airport, said, “Securing the Green Key renewal for the third year is a strong validation of our team's consistent work behind the scenes. At Novotel Hyderabad Airport, sustainability is part of how we design systems, manage resources, and engage with guests. Each year, we aim to refine our practices and create a hospitality environment that is efficient, responsible, and built for the long term.”

As sustainability continues to shape global hospitality standards, Novotel Hyderabad Airport remains focused on aligning its operations with evolving environmental expectations, demonstrating that guest comfort and long-term ecological responsibility can go hand in hand.


IHCL Expands Footprint with Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham Opening

IHCL Expands Footprint with Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham Opening

By Hariharan U

Published on April 15, 2026

Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has announced the opening of Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham, marking a significant addition to Gujarat’s evolving hospitality landscape. Spread across 17 acres, the hotel is positioned as a tranquil green retreat catering to both business and leisure travellers.

Highlighting the strategic importance of the location, Leah Tata, Vice President & Brand Leader, Gateway Hotels & Resorts, IHCL, noted that Gandhidham serves as a key urban hub supporting maritime trade and regional commerce. She added that the hotel is well placed to meet the rising demand driven by the region’s economic growth.

The 93-key property blends regional design influences with contemporary comfort. Surrounded by landscaped lawns and fountains, the hotel offers thoughtfully designed rooms that reflect local character while delivering a relaxed stay experience.

Dining at the hotel is anchored by Urban Masala, the all-day multi-cuisine restaurant that brings together local specialities and global favourites, along with chef-curated signature dishes. Guests can also enjoy a range of leisure amenities including a swimming pool, fitness centre, and spa.

For social and corporate gatherings, the hotel features versatile indoor and outdoor event spaces, making it suitable for celebrations, conferences, and business meetings alike.

Sandeep Makroo, General Manager, Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham, shared, “We look forward to welcoming guests to Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham and delivering a stay defined by comfort and warm hospitality.

With proximity to key attractions such as Rann of Kutch, Vijay Vilas Palace, and Mandvi Beach, the hotel also offers travellers an entry point to explore the cultural and natural richness of the region.

As part of IHCL’s expansive portfolio, the Gateway brand continues to strengthen its presence across emerging destinations, offering full-service hotels that combine comfort, accessibility, and authentic hospitality experiences.

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