MERCURE ARRIVES ON SUKHUMVIT

Launch of Bangkok hotel part of major Asia Pacific expansion of Mercure brand

Accor has signed a management agreement with Grand City Mansion International to introduce its Mercure brand to Bangkok’s vibrant Sukhumvit Road.

The launch of the Mercure in Bangkok is part of an Asia-Pacific expansion of the Mercure brand, Accor's largest global brand. It follows recent announcements of Mercure making its debut in Bali, Phuket and in New Zealand.

The 235-room Royal Parkview Hotel will become the Mercure Parkview Sukhumvit in January 2002 after commencement of renovations to upgrade the property.

The hotel is conveniently located near the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre, Bangkok’s posh Emporium Shopping Centre and one of the Thai capital’s favourite green spaces, Benjasiri Park.

It features 12 suites and a luxurious Presidential suite, and five banquet rooms with a maximum capacity of 500 for sit down functions. The coffee shop serves a tasty combination of western, Thai and Asian favorites, with the adjacent Lobby Lounge providing a sanctuary for quite cocktails after a busy day.

Grand City Mansion International’s Chairman and Managing Director, Chatchwan Boonthanapibul said he was looking forward to joining Accor’s expanding Mercure network.

“Mercure brings a touch of European flair to Sukhumvit Road, and I believe the strong brand recognition will be an immediate benefit as the hotel’s traditional strength is in the leisure business.”

Accor Deputy Managing Director Jochen Dobel said “The Mercure brand complements the established Sofitel and Novotel brands. Mercure's success globally has been based on the hotels offering quality mid-market accommodation with a distinct regional flavour, and the Mercure Parkview Sukhumvit will be an ideal ambassador for the brand in Bangkok.”

The hotel is another important part of Accor’s expanding Mercure portfolio in Asia. Accor recently announced the addition of Mercure Kuta Bali in Indonesia and Panwa Beach Resort in Phuket, which will be rebranded Mercure Panwa Beach Resort by May next year. Accor also manages the Mercure Coralia Resort on Koh Samui.