What is your outlook for the remainder of 2021 ?
While I am optimistic about the remainder of 2021 , this year remains a “ work in progress ”. So , it is essential that we remain agile to navigate the changes that are still ahead of us . It is promising to see vaccination rates increase and authorities lifting travel restrictions – and with this , we are seeing a marked growth in booking pace due to pent-up demand . We expect this trend will continue .
At the beginning of the year , we started to see a subtle yet impactful resurgence in travel demand , especially
in resort destinations such as Miami and Hawaii . They have experienced considerable revenue growth and will continue to do so . We launched our Big Things Happen at Small Meetings campaign in February to promote the recovery of group business at Accor and it has resulted in an increase in lead volume . Very encouraging . Our Get Real with Neil campaign , featuring Neil Patrick Harris , has also driven significant leisure bookings .
We all have overcome so much in the past year , but as uncertainty surrounding travel continues to dissipate , I am confident in the future of Accor as well as the hospitality industry .
Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth
How have you changed your operational model to survive and thrive ?
Our teams have shown incredible flexibility , and creativity to adapt to what has seemed a deluge of change brought on by the pandemic . Changes in market conditions , restrictions , product , and demand , forced the hand of the hospitality industry , clearing the path to doing things differently , and I believe we will rebuild stronger and nimbler as a result .
It is during this very challenging time that we saw a necessary opportunity to reexamine our operations and focus on what is critical for all of our guests , employees , owners , and brands , and to simplify to be able to meet the changing needs of our stakeholders while still providing incredible experiences .
8 ILHA