Accor Pacific’s hotel partners have invested more than AU$300 million in renovations and refurbishments since the beginning of 2022 amid an increasingly competitive accommodation landscape post pandemic.

As the industry goes from strength to strength with rising occupancies and room rates, Accor is raising the standard across its network of 400 hotels, apartments, and resorts in the Pacific to ensure properties capture the attention of discerning travellers.

“We are proud to announce this substantial investment in hotel renovations and refurbishments,” said Accor Pacific CEO, Sarah Derry.

“It reflects the commitment of our partners to invest in Accor’s brands, which continue to deliver outstanding guest experiences.

“These renovations will not only enhance the overall guest experience, but also contribute to the economic growth and development of the local communities where Accor hotels, apartments and resorts are located.

Derry said the renovations – which have spanned numerous locations the Pacific region, including Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and French Polynesia – have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from guests.

“Accor continues to prioritise guest satisfaction and aims to provide exceptional experiences that exceed expectations,” she added.

MGallery and Sofitel hotels invested significantly in renovations. The refurbishment of Manly Pacific – MGallery in Sydney was among the notable projects. The extensive renovation – unveiled in January 2023 – centred around contemporary design and luxurious comfort with state-of-the-art facilities, modern guest rooms and improved amenities.

In Adelaide, The Playford – MGallery received a AU$25 million makeover including guestrooms, function spaces, reception and the addition of a stand-alone restaurant and bar, Luma.

“The results are nothing short of spectacular,” Accor Vice President Operations Pacific, Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery, Emblems, Marcus Hanna, told HM of the upgrades across the MGallery and Sofitel brands.

“These properties exude an elevated refinement that is captivating. From the impeccable amenities to enhanced creativity and design, every detail has been carefully thought out to create a truly unforgettable experience. It is evident that these hotels have spared no effort in ensuring that their guests are surrounded by beauty and luxury at every turn.”

Also in Adelaide, 202-room flagship Adelaide hotel Peppers Waymouth Adelaide saw room upgrades across the 17 floors as well as the addition of two new luxury suites and two dedicated family rooms. The hotel also added a new restaurant with an open kitchen and wine cellar, plus a new private dining room/boardroom, guest library lounge and enhanced conference rooms.

In Melbourne, Pullman Melbourne on the Park unveiled the results of a AU$40 million renovation last year, which included 19 floors of completely upgraded rooms and suites as well as a new Executive Lounge and the spectacular William Clarke Sky Villa.

Five-star heritage hotel Swissôtel Sydney underwent a multi-million-dollar transformation, unveiling its new lobby bar Arches on Market, and European inspired rooftop pool.

Among the other recent refurbishments are Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge, Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort, Mercure Cairns, Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort, Pullman Cairns International, Mercure Sydney, The Sebel Quay West Suites Sydney, Novotel Sydney Brighton Beach, Peppers The Hills Lodge, Sofitel Melbourne on Collins, Novotel Melbourne Preston, Novotel Darwin Airport and Mercure Darwin Airport Resort, Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour, Pullman Auckland, and Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa.

Accor said efforts have been made to reduce the environmental impact of refurbishment processes through eco-friendly practices and technologies.