The brand name and booking issues between Accor Hotels and H World Hotels in China stem from their historical relationship and subsequent developments. Here’s an overview:



Background:

1. Historical Partnership:

Accor entered a strategic alliance with H World Group (formerly Huazhu Group) in 2014. This partnership allowed Huazhu to manage Accor’s economy and midscale brands (such as Ibis, Mercure, and Novotel) in mainland China, while Accor retained control of its luxury and premium brands (such as Sofitel, Pullman, and Raffles).

2. Brand Licensing Agreement:

Under this agreement, Huazhu operated Accor’s midscale and economy hotels in China under a licensing model, and these properties were integrated into the ALL - Accor Live Limitless loyalty program.

3. Termination of Partnership:

In January 2021, Accor and Huazhu announced the termination of their partnership. As part of the split:

• Huazhu retained rights to use certain Accor brand names (like Ibis, Mercure, and Novotel) for properties they managed in mainland China.

• These hotels were removed from Accor’s ALL program and are no longer bookable through Accor’s platform. They now operate independently within the Huazhu ecosystem and are bookable via H World’s own channels.



Impact on Accor Members:

1. Limited Booking Access:

Accor members cannot book Huazhu-operated hotels (e.g., Ibis, Mercure, Novotel) in China via Accor’s website or app. These hotels are listed exclusively on Huazhu’s platforms or other third-party booking sites.

2. Loyalty Points and Benefits:

Guests staying at Huazhu-managed hotels in China are not eligible to earn or redeem ALL points or enjoy Accor elite status benefits, as these hotels are no longer part of the ALL program.

3. Focus on Luxury and Premium Brands:

Accor continues to manage and expand its luxury and premium hotel portfolio (e.g., Sofitel, Raffles, Pullman, Fairmont) in China, which remain accessible to ALL members and fully integrated into the program.



Resolution Strategy for Guests:

• Accor Members:

If you’re an Accor member looking to book hotels in China, focus on properties directly managed by Accor (luxury and premium brands). Check the Accor app or website for the latest availability.

• H World Members:

For Huazhu-managed Accor-branded hotels, consider signing up for the H World loyalty program, which provides access to those properties and relevant benefits.



This division is unlikely to change soon due to the contractual separation, and it reflects the complexities of managing global partnerships in localized markets like China.