A variety of Accor branded properties across Australia have modified their focus during the COVID-19 pandemic, opening their doors as critical infrastructure rather than commercial hotels in an effort to provide shelter to those in need.
Working with various state health departments, a selection of Accor hotels nationwide have been utilised under a Federal Government directive to house incoming international arrivals for the mandatory quarantine period. The first crop of arrivals emerged today after their compulsory fortnight being looked after at Swissotel Sydney – part of the Accor family.
Further, the company has set aside rooms in an effort to look after rough sleepers and homeless as well as vulnerable families and domestic abuse survivors needing a safe refuge for a period of time.
On a smaller community level, several Accor hotels have stepped up with thoughtful acts of kindness which have benefited their local communities. Mercure Sunshine Coast Kawana Waters has assisted medical professionals at Sunshine Coast University Hospital by delivering dozens of meals; a delivery of baby toys and jungle gym equipment was delivered to a family in isolation at Novotel Brisbane Airport; and Grand Mercure Auckland surprised a guest on his birthday by delivering his favourite cocktail – an Espresso Martini – during his isolation stay.
Accor Pacific Chief Operating Officer, Simon McGrath, said taking care of others was at the very heart of what Accor does on a daily basis.
“We could not do this without the incredible people we have in our business. They are not only providing accommodation, but also pastoral care and kindness. We have never been more proud of our colleagues.”