‘We met like a family’
Jean-Michel Cassé, former Chief Operating Officer (COO) – India & South Asia, Accor, retired from his position recently. In his farewell interview, he shared what makes the Indian market so dynamic.
R DV R U H SHULHQFH LQ ,QGLD
I have been associated with Accor and the hospitality industry in this region for more than a decade. This journey and experience, with the support of our partners and colleagues, has been a tremendous one. From being just one hotel in Hyderabad to now more than 50 hotels, I have seen the group progress at every step as each of these properties is unique with individual memories attached. Our current portfolio is a healthy mix of diverse quality brands that also enjoy the benefit of great locations.
R LV ,QGLD GLIIHUHQW IURP RWKHU FR QWULHV R KDYH RUNHG LQ EHIRUH
An amazing quality which sets India apart from other countries is the sense of cooperation and oneness. This industry never treats you like an outsider. Be it our employees, our partners, media fraternity – it is like a huge family gathering with deep-rooted values, and this is true for every city I have been to and every person I have met along the way. We have so many competitors in the market, but when you meet them at various conferences or meetings, there is never a sense of any rivalry. In fact, we all met like a family and as an industry that sees a great potential in the region for everyone.
:KDW PDNHV FFRU D KR VHKROG QDPH LQ ,QGLD
All our efforts and innovations have been possible with the help of our owners who trusted us and helped us in the growth. There have been various initiatives, campaigns and innovations through the years. ALL – Accor Live Limitless, our loyalty programme, is a feather in our cap in terms of a key growth initiative. Our teams have been working to provide exclusive customer experiences through various partnerships and campaigns. Another important aspect is food innovation – not just at our restaurants but also for our M!CE segment.
R HOO GR R WKLQN ,QGLDQ KRVSLWDOLW LQG VWU LV GHDOLQ LWK WKH & 9, VLW DWLRQ
All hotel groups have been announcing recovery plans, offers and vouchers to entice consumers, implementing strict safety and hygiene measures and much more. To revive the industry, my suggestion would be to not drop rates now because occupancies will return in due course, however, if rates are cut down, it will take the industry back to where it was 10 years ago.
:KDW LV R U RSLQLRQ RQ KR HYHQWV DW KRWHOV R OG FKDQ H
The hospitality industry and banqueting venues will have to rethink their strategy, ensuring that all available spaces be utilised in the most productive way to make up for reduced capacity. When it comes to F&B at events, self-service buffets are not a recommended option for the foreseeable future. Seated dining is the alternative option. Direct contact between the guests and associates will be minimal.
Do not drop rates as occupancies will return in due course; reducing rates will take the industry back by 10 years”