Strong Growth for Relais & Châteaux in 2009/10

Relais & Châteaux, an association of some of the world’s finest hoteliers, chefs and restaurateurs, has reported an upward trend across all areas of its commercial business with a sales growth of +29%, totalling EUR 70 million.

 The number of nights reserved has increased by +38%, with an average rate of EUR 830 per reservation for an average stay of 2.3 nights. The company’s fiscal year started 1 July 2009 and ended 30 June 2010.

“At the close of a record year of commercial success, we are pleased to witness the undeniable attachment of our clients to the Relais & Châteaux brand”, said Jacques-Olivier Chauvin, CEO of Relais & Châteaux. “For our member properties, the benefits of belonging to our Association were particularly efficient with an unprecedented return-on-investment valued at 25 EUR for every euro invested.”

Based on a decentralised structure sharing common strengths, the group’s international commercial network is reinforced by a structure of 12 regional subsidiaries and 21 delegations. This year, a new Australasia-South Pacific delegation was put in place for the 11 properties currently in the region.

Jaume Tàpies, International President of Relais & Châteaux said, “This year was extremely satisfying both in terms of commercial results as well as prospection in exciting new destinations, both of which underline the stability of the Associations’ strong points even during challenging times. Additionally, current travel trends indicate that consumer confidence is returning and we are seeing encouraging numbers of advance bookings.”

More than just a collection of some of the most idyllic places on the planet, the association’s mission to spread its unique “art de vivre” around the world implies the mobilisation of more than 22,000 employees. The association also benefits from the help, in terms of recruitment and training, and the support of long-standing travel partners such as American Express and Silversea Cruises.

The association welcomed 7 new properties between January and March 2010 and the Board of Directors of Relais & Châteaux has already approved 30 additional properties located in six new countries. The names of the new members will be disclosed during the presentation of the 2011 Guide later this year.

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