Orient-Express Hotels, owners or part-owners and managers of 45 luxury hotel, restaurant, tourist train and river cruise properties in 22 countries, has launched the Orient-Express Associate Hotels program. At the same time, the luxury brand announced that the founding member of the new program is the Hôtel du Palais in Biarritz, France.
David Williams, Chief Marketing Officer at Orient-Express, says that the initiative will help the company "curate new destinations for our guests to discover." Orient-Express will provide access to its international sales force and marketing channels for the smaller hotels. "Our boutique collection is uniquely positioned to work with like-minded hoteliers who wish to preserve their established individual brand reputation, but who share the vision of the Orient-Express umbrella brand,” he added.
Associate hotels will have access to Orient-Express’ full suite of sales, marketing and public relations support in 17 key geographic markets, global voice reservations and dedicated distribution under the Orient-Express GDS code “OE”, and a fully aligned online presence with next generation websites. Available strategic partnerships include the Bellini Club, Orient-Express’ preferred agent program.
The Orient-Express Associate Hotels program is by invitation only and partner hotels are selected according to criteria, including having an established and iconic reputation, being a market leader in their respective destination, being a complementary fit with the existing Orient-Express portfolio, and meeting very high independently assessed quality standards.