Accor has announced an exciting new addition to its renowned network of brands. Their newest global brand, Handwritten Collection, touches on charm and intimacy in a customer's hospitality experience. With over 110 Handwritten leads worldwide, Accor has secured 12 signings, and 12 properties are expected to open during the first trimester of 2023.
The Handwritten Collection will offer a variety of distinctive hotels, providing guests with an idyllic charm and style. The guest experience will build on the hoteliers' tastes, passions, and quirks. The Collection portfolio is anticipated to gain more than 250 hotels by 2030.
Alex Schellenberger, Chief Marketing Officer of Premium, Midscale, and Economy Brands at Accor, stated how Handwritten Collection would offer a twist on traditional hotel accommodation.
"Handwritten Collection enriches Accor’s offering in the ‘collection brands’ segment with a curated selection of hotels that exhibit charming and one-of-a-kind concepts,” Schellenberger said. “Our aim, beyond delivering a truly authentic guest experience, is to support the growing number of independent and boutique hotel owners looking to boost their global profile, connect with more audiences and grow their revenue without losing their identity.”
Accor is broadening its brand portfolio and midscale hotel offerings, looking to replicate its success with other brands. MGallery Hotel Collection has evolved to account for more than 100 boutique hotels worldwide, and Emblems Collection has grown as Accor’s first luxury brand, operating distinctive hotels emblematic of a place in history. Their latest opening was Guiyang Art Center Hotel China in December 2022.
“The manner in which each host interacts with their guests is thoughtfully considered and brings to life their own personal passions,” detailed Caroline Bénard, Global SVP Economy & Midscale Brands at Accor. “Whether in a social setting or the privacy of a guest’s room, there will be moments of storytelling and engagement that create a genuine connection. This rapport between host and guest contributes to a more meaningful and memorable stay experience.”
Most hotels joining the Handwritten Collection will be conversion projects that need a more straightforward transition for sustainable growth and development. The new collection has been designed around the needs of independent hotel owners. Moreover, the brand provides a direct ROI, allowing owners to maximise revenue with immediate access to the power and reach of Accor’s sales.
Camil Yazbeck, Global Chief Development Officer, Premium, Midscale and Economy or Accor, noted the outstanding growth of Accor in 2022.
“In 2022, Accor signed on average globally more than one hotel per day and opened nearly one hotel per day,” Yazbeck said. “We aim to continue this growth by anticipating the needs of our guests and aligning with the investment criteria of our partners and owners.”
With goals to grow the collection to 250 hotels by 2030, Accor actively seeks new properties in popular travel destinations worldwide.
“ We look forward to working collaboratively with owners and partners and welcoming additional hotels from around the world into this outstanding collection,” Yazbeck detailed. “With over 110 properties and 11,500 rooms in negotiation to become part of Handwritten Collection, including 12 hotels committed already, we aim to have over 250 properties by 2030.”
Handwritten Collection properties scheduled to open in 2023:
Hotel Shanghai Sheshan Oriental, Handwritten Collection, Shanghai, China
19 January 2023
Close to Sheshan National Park, Hotel Shanghai Sheshan Oriental has over 124,000 square meters of landscaped gardens, including an outdoor beach pool and resort experience. First in the Handwritten Collection hotel, the property will deliver a dedicated service team to create bespoke dining experiences for guests.
Le Saint Gervais Hotel & Spa, Handwritten Collection, Saint Gervais, France
19 January 2023
As a chic and arty getaway, Le Saint Gervais Hotel & Spa blends the spirit of the art nouveau movement with contemporary tastes showcasing the beauty of a historic home. Ottoman culture will come to life in elements such as a library corner, Turkish coffee and herbal tea infusions available in the spa.
Wonil Hotel Perth, Handwritten Collection, Perth, Australia
February 2023
Located on the bank of Swan River next to Kings Park and minutes from Perth’s CBD, Wonil Hotel provides a chic modern setting. Guests will enjoy this stylish home base, moments away from a vibrant city to explore and beaches to enjoy.
Hotel Morris, Handwritten Collection, Sydney, Australia
February 2023
Within a striking Italian Renaissance-styled building, the 82-bed Hotel Morris makes its grand reopening as part of the Handwritten Collection after big restorations. Mixing European class with Australian character, the historical property honours the hotel’s historical roots.
Le Splendid Hotel Lac d’Annecy, Handwritten Collection, Annecy, France
April 2023
Near the city centre and Lake Annecy, Splendid Hotel offers a unique Art Deco character with a flare of 1950s modernity. A selection of eclectic artwork, sculptures and vintage pieces dazzles the hotel’s decor from renowned Designer Thierry D’Istria.
Hotel Les Capitouls Toulouse Centre, Handwritten Collection, Toulouse, France
May 2023
In the heart of the city’s historical centre, the Hotel Les Capitouls Toulouse Center offers guests to discover its charming and warm-hearted atmosphere. Originally built as a historic private mansion, this hotel gracefully combines the charm of the Toulouse brick vaults with modern delights and sustainable design elements.
Oru Hub Hotel, Handwritten Collection, Tallinn, Estonia
May 2023
In the centre of the historic old town, Tallinn, and at a short drive to the coast, Oru Hub Hotel offers Yoga facilities and a Tea Room. Following 2 years of major renovations, the hotel will boast a new guest experience concept, uniquely combining leisure, work and food.
Paris Montmartre Sacré Coeur*, Handwritten Collection, Paris, France
Spring 2024
With a typical Parisian facade and offering intimate and cozy rooms, the Paris Montmarte Sacré Coeur is located a few minute's walk from the Sacré-Coeur basilica and the beautiful Montmartre neighbourhood. The hotel serves as an ideal base to explore France’s capital.
