Nine New Le Meridien Hotels Slated to Open in Next 12-months
Janaury 25, 2013 - Le Meridien Hotels & Resorts has announced a significant growth pipeline with nine new hotels expected to open within the next 12 months.
Since its 2005 acquisition by Starwood Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: HOT), both Starwood and its hotel ownership groups have transformed Le Meridien into a contemporary, design-led lifestyle brand. Le Meridien, which at the time of its purchase offered a strong international complement to Starwood's then primarily North American holdings, continues to provide opportunities for new deal signings and conversions in both emerging and established markets, respectively.
“Starwood is seeing increased interest in Le Meridien among owners, especially around conversions,” said Simon Turner, President of Global Development, Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “Le Meridien is benefiting from growing brand recognition and deal signing momentum around the world, and the brand's long-established global presence remains a competitive advantage.”
Over the past seven years, Le Meridien has undergone a full transformation, including a comprehensive portfolio review as well as a re-development of its brand strategy, marketing approach and service culture training. With the strongest portfolio and performance levels in the brand's history, Le Meridien has had more new hotel deals signed in the past year than in the previous four years combined.
“Le Meridien has soared under Starwood, with a new design perspective and truly unique positioning that helps guests unlock their destination through culture and cuisine,” said Brian Povinelli, Global Brand Leader, Le Meridien and Westin Hotels. “After significant investment and consolidation, Le Meridien boasts its best portfolio ever, and this will be a milestone year for us as we welcome an unprecedented number of new hotels into our ever-growing family.”
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