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. 


WGH Hotels & Resorts Unveils Kochi Flagship to Kerala Industries Minister

WGH Hotels & Resorts Unveils Kochi Flagship to Kerala Industries Minister

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 31, 2025

WGH Hotels & Resorts Pvt. Ltd., the hospitality wing of the diversified World Group, recently hosted Hon. Minister for Industries, Government of Kerala, P. Rajeev at the site of its upcoming flagship project in Kochi. The high-profile visit underlines the significance of this luxury development, which was also featured at the Kerala Global Investment Meet, reinforcing the state's push for sustainable and experiential tourism.

With a legacy that began in 2012 through the acquisition of World Backwaters Alleppey, WGH now boasts a strong presence in Kerala with operating properties in Alleppey, Munnar, and Thekkady. The group is now expanding ambitiously with new developments in Kochi, Varkala, Trivandrum, and Ashtamudi, including a signature wellness resort—all designed to meet international standards while staying true to Kerala’s heritage.

During the ministerial visit, WGH presented the master plan and design vision for its Kochi project, set for launch on January 1, 2028. The development aims to redefine luxury tourism in Kerala by fusing modern architecture with authentic, culturally immersive experiences.

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Mr. J. Jayakrishnan, Director of World Group and WGH Hotels & Resorts, thanked the government for its proactive support, stating:

“Kerala’s infrastructure development and progressive tourism policies are perfectly aligned with our vision. Our projects aim to promote responsible and sustainable tourism while gifting guests an immersive experience of Kerala’s unique lifestyle and traditions.”

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The World Group, with nearly four decades of business leadership across mining, logistics, agriculture, DRI, and consulting, has already invested INR 250 crores in Kerala's hospitality sector over the past two years. An additional INR 500 crores has been earmarked for future ventures—including the flagship resorts, a hospitality college in Kochi, and a chain of vegetarian restaurants throughout the state.

The proposed hospitality college is envisioned to train 200 professionals annually, building a strong local talent pool to meet global industry standards. Meanwhile, the Varkala and Ashtamudi resorts are scheduled to open by 2027, further anchoring WGH’s role in shaping Kerala’s tourism future.

WGH Hotels & Resorts remains deeply committed to supporting Kerala's growth as a world-class tourism hub, guided by principles of sustainability, cultural authenticity, and community development.


Clarks Exotica Champions Purpose-Driven Culture at Work

Clarks Exotica Champions Purpose-Driven Culture at Work

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 30, 2025

In the world of luxury hospitality, where lavish experiences often steal the spotlight, Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa stands out by leading with a deeper mission — purpose. For Clarks, hospitality is not just about the scenic views and impeccable service; it’s about building a culture rooted in values, unity, and community responsibility.

At the core of Clarks' success is a people-first philosophy — a belief that genuine service begins with a strong, supported team. Under the leadership of Nilisha Ghuliani, Vice President, the resort has cultivated a workplace that feels less like a job and more like a purpose-driven family.

Honouring National Pride: #OperationSindoor

One of Clarks’ standout initiatives this year was #OperationSindoor, a heartfelt tribute to the Indian Armed Forces. Employees dressed in red and pink — symbols of strength, unity, and gratitude — and came together to honour those who serve the nation.

This was more than just a ceremony. It was a collective expression of patriotism, creating a sense of purpose and solidarity among team members. “At Clarks, patriotism is not a moment — it’s a mindset,” shares Nilisha Ghuliani.

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Nurturing the Earth: Earth Day Tree Planting

Sustainability isn’t just a policy at Clarks — it’s a practice. On Earth Day, employees participated in a tree-planting initiative at the Clubhouse Lawn, reflecting the resort’s long-standing commitment to the environment.

From water conservation to green operations, Clarks has consistently invested in planet-positive action, ensuring that everyday efforts contribute to long-term impact.

Empowering People: Culture of Care

Employee wellbeing and growth are central to the Clarks ethos. Through training programs, internal recognition, and continuous engagement, the resort empowers its team to lead, grow, and evolve. Whether it's supporting career advancement or celebrating small wins, Clarks ensures that its people feel seen, heard, and valued.

"Every initiative — whether for the nation, the environment, or our people — is designed to deepen connection and build meaning," Nilisha explains.

Clarks Exotica is proving that a great workplace isn't just built with policies — it's built with heart. Here, service excellence begins within, and each action is a step toward a more unified, compassionate, and conscious world.


Cocoon at The Machan Lonavala: A Luxurious Monsoon Escape in the Sky

Cocoon at The Machan Lonavala: A Luxurious Monsoon Escape in the Sky

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 30, 2025

Elevate your monsoon experience at The Machan Lonavala with The Cocoon, a stunning 2,500+ sq. ft. villa nestled high among the treetops. Crafted as a dome-shaped sanctuary, this is the brand's most luxurious and architecturally distinct offering — designed for those who seek the perfect blend of indulgence and nature.

Timed perfectly for the rains, The Cocoon immerses guests in forest serenity with panoramic views from a soaring foot ceiling and a sprawling private deck. Whether you’re enjoying the misty monsoon air or stargazing at night, the elevated setting delivers tranquility at every turn.

The villa offers four unique sleeping zones: a cozy loft, a main-level space, and two suspended bedrooms on the lower floor. From elegant copper bathtubs to an open-to-sky His & Hers shower, and a modern multi-tiered bath, the bathing options alone are an experience in themselves.

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Step onto the private deck to discover a heated plunge pool, sunken seating, and an alfresco dining spot — all overlooking the lush, green canopy of Lonavala.

Sustainability lies at the heart of The Cocoon. Powered entirely by solar energy and constructed using eco-sensitive materials, this retreat reflects The Machan’s commitment to luxurious yet conscious living.

Perfect for romantic getaways, family vacations, or friends' reunions, The Cocoon is more than just a villa — it’s a retreat where skies meet serenity.

Bookings are now open on www.themachan.com.

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