If you've ever stayed at a hotel and thought "I wish I could just live here," well, you're not alone. Marriott says its sales of branded residences are booming.
Here's the first major interview with Gilda Perez-Alvarado since she became chief strategy officer of Accor. Can she help the hospitality titan diversify beyond selling hotel rooms, help it conquer the U.S., and reinvigorate the iconic Orient Express brand?
In today’s increasingly competitive branded residential market, Accor is banking on the idea that investment partners and home buyers want to align with hotel brands that offer turnkey support at every phase, from planning and design to sales and operations.
Marriott executives believe that the rise of mixed business and leisure trips poses challenges for tracking guest behavior. But the trend also creates opportunities to offer new products.
Hotel groups have been eager to introduce branded residential offerings. Plus, Marriott tests "magic" beds, Macau may cap room occupancy, and other recent hotel news.