Accor revives Pullman brand

French hotel group Accor is to revive the Pullman brand of hotels, targeted at its corporate travellers, while introducing an All Seasons brand for economy travellers.

Pullman disappeared as a brand when Accor merged it into Sofitel during the 1990's.

The 21st century version will be revived in the world's major cities the company said during first half results revealed on Wednesday.

The brand will be rolled out through its management and franchise contracts with 45 Sofitel and Grand Mecures in 23 countries to be re-branded as the brand gets off the ground.

Accor said their could be 300 Pullmans by 2015.

In its first half trading statement the company said: "The Pullman name enjoys a heritage that is closely associated with travel and the new brand will target primarily business travellers. The Pullman hotels will be located in the world's major cities and will offer all the facilities required to hold large-scale seminars and international conventions."

Meanwhile Accor wants to see 10,000 All Seasons rooms by 2010, with numbers coming from re-branding existing hotels and new franchise deals. 14 hotels have already been marked for re-branding.

All-Seasons is expected to be introduced into the UK next year.

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