Calcutta, Feb. 15: AccorHotels plans to open 10 properties this year, taking the number of its hotels in the country to 45.

The French hospitality chain has set a target of 40 new properties in the country over the next few years, including two in the affordable and mid-market segment in Calcutta.

"We have 35 hotels through seven brands (in India). This year, we plan to open 10 properties. By the end of the year, we plan to operate 45 hotels. In the pipeline, we have 40 hotels, including two in Calcutta," said Jean-Michel Cassé, senior vice-president, operations India, AccorHotels.

Accor's seven brands in the country comprise Sofitel, Pullman, Grand Mercure, Novotel, Mercure, ibis and Formule1. It is focusing on the smaller cities for expansion.

Calcutta focus

Accor, which runs a hotel in Rajarhat under flagship brand Novotel, is planning to bring two more brands in the city - ibis and Formule 1.

ibis will have 187 rooms, while Formule 1 will have 129 rooms. "In Calcutta, we have placed Novotel as more towards the upscale. We are now looking to introduce Formule 1 and ibis brands in the city," Cassé said. Both the properties may open their doors by the end of 2018.

The ibis hotels are a joint venture between AccorHotels and Interglobe Hotels, Formule 1 is owned by Barque Hotels, a joint venture between SAMHI and Accor. Accor AAPC Singapore's fully owned subsidiary - Economy Hotels India Services Pvt Ltd - has the management rights of the Formule 1 brand in the country.

Cassé said occupancy rates had grown last year. "It is a very good sign and we hope this will continue. The only problem is that the average room rent is still below $100."