Accor Hotels Eyes Expansion in Northern Greece Over Next Five Years

Accor, the French multinational hospitality group, is exploring the expansion of its brands in Thessaloniki and Halkidiki over the next five years, according to Paul Rosenberg, the company’s Regional Vice President for Luxury Development in Southern Europe.

Speaking at the recent 1st Thessaloniki Investment Forum, Rosenberg noted that despite Accor’s strong presence in Greece, the company has yet to establish operations in Northern Greece, specifically Thessaloniki.

With more than 5,500 properties across 110 countries, Accor currently operates eight hotels in Greece and has another eight in the pipeline.

“We are already well-established in Greece, but unfortunately, we have not yet entered the northern region, including Thessaloniki,” said Rosenberg. “However, we are actively working on plans and have a strong belief in the potential of the destination.”

Rosenberg also expressed interest in Halkidiki, highlighting the growing tourist season in the area. “We would love to be present in Thessaloniki, and Halkidiki is also very appealing. We believe the northern Greece region holds significant potential for our brands,” he stated, confident that Accor’s expansion in the region could be successful within the next five years.

Regarding which of Accor’s brands would be suitable for Thessaloniki and Halkidiki, Rosenberg identified MGallery and Sofitel as ideal fits for the market. He also mentioned Emblems, a new chain of luxury hotels, as a potential brand for the seaside locations in Halkidiki.

“We see opportunities in Halkidiki for both MGallery and Sofitel, and we also believe that Emblems could be a strong addition to the area,” Rosenberg explained.

Halkidiki. Photo source: Visit Halkidiki.

The Regional VP emphasized that Accor is in discussions with local partners and working to align their vision, whether through management agreements or franchises.

“The collaboration will depend on the vision of our partners, and we are primarily engaging with local investors who have long-term plans to develop projects, which may include standalone hotels or mixed-use developments,” he added.

Rosenberg also noted an increasing influx of private investment funds in Greece, particularly in Athens, and expressed confidence that similar investments will soon be directed toward Northern Greece as well.

The 1st Thessaloniki Investment Forum, organized by CNN Greece and Tourism Media Events, was held on November 13 at the Electra Palace Hotel in Thessaloniki. The forum aimed to promote Thessaloniki and Northern Greece as key hubs for development in Southeast Europe.