Salter Brothers beds down Accor for Travelodge resorts

A big bet on hospitality’s future when the deal was struck last July, the punt is paying off, with the sector’s revival gaining momentum, propelled by the end of lockdowns and opening of borders.

Although challenges remain, demand is building and will be helped by the return to offices, Mr Salter said. Leisure travel is already rebounding in Salter’s other hotels.

In what may be a first in the Australian market, the Accor agreement includes ESG targets for green energy procurement, waste and energy, water reduction and importantly staff diversity.

“It’s a sign of things to come in the sector,” Mr Salter said.

The portfolio will join Accor’s existing 340-strong network of hotels in Australia, tapping the benefits of the Paris-based giant’s global network. The deal is Accor’s largest integration since its $1.2 billion acquisition of Mantra Group in 2018.

“These hotels are located in amazing central city locations and the best metropolitan areas and we are working with Salter Brothers to reinvigorate the portfolio, setting them up for success with the next generation of travelers and signaling our confidence in the return of corporate travel,” said Accor Pacific chief executive, Sarah Derry.