Sorbet, Art And Music: Is Le Méridien Marriott’s Best-Kept Secret?

Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts is a historic brand, dating back to the 1960s, that was created by Air France with destinations around the world meant to house its crew on layovers as well as guests that were making their way to far-flung cities. Today, it has evolved into one of Marriott’s most iconic hotel names as part of its 30-strong lineup. There are more than 100 hotels and resorts around the world bearing its name representing over 30,000 rooms, everywhere from city centers to remote islands.

In celebration of the brand’s 50th anniversary, a massive reinvigoration project is taking place at its hotels. The goal is that they all eventually take inspiration from the French Riviera and Mediterranean destinations where the brand was born. The updated designs still pay homage to the style created 50 years ago, but has evolved for today’s guests in the ways that both business and leisure travelers will appreciate.

Jennifer Connell, global brand leader, Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts and vice president, distinctive premium brands for Marriott International, shares insight on the state of hospitality today and the evolution of this brand in particular as it celebrates 50 years in operation. Connell believes that this is one of Marriott’s best-kept secrets.

Where do you envision future growth for the brand?

Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts is expected to continue growing and expanding its pipeline of hotel openings over the next few years with 10 new hotels projected to open or undergo significant remodeling within two years. This is across global markets including Asia, South America and the U.S.

In 2025, the trajectory of growth is expected to continue, with five new openings and conversions slated across Europe, greater China and the U.S. Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts is already strong in Europe and Africa, but the brand only has about two dozen North American properties. This is an important area of growth.

Le Méridien just opened in Melbourne, Australia, which is the first hotel for the brand in the country. South America is another area that is ripe for possibilities at the moment, but China has the largest amount of properties in the pipeline.

Another interesting point about the pipeline is that nearly one third of new openings are in resort and leisure destinations, which is fueling demand now more than ever. People are looking to travel, explore and relax, and that thought process fits with our brand ethos.

Key to the growth strategy is the location, local partnership and potential business opportunities within each market. One of the ways that North America has been able to grow so quickly for the brand is through property conversions and adaptive re-use sites.

Some of the most recent openings include Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa, Le Méridien Salt Lake City Downtown and Le Royal Méridien Doha.

What is the Au Soleil program?

The brand is all about European glamor, relaxing and savoring life, and that is especially important during the summer months. Au Soleil, meaning “under the sun” in French, is the brand’s way making it easy for guests to kick back and relax. Each hotel offers a golden hour experience, which gives guests the chance to try a local cocktail or glass of rose in the early evening and slow down a bit.

Hot summers would be different without refreshing ice cream. That’s why Le Scoop, the brand’s sorbet offering, is so popular in the warmer months. As part of Au Soleil and the celebration of summer, the hotel brand just launched a new flavor inspired by Whispering Angel, which will be available across the portfolio.

Social media superstar chef Meredith Hayden created a Rosé-infused sorbet in partnership with Whispering Angel for the brand. It's available at more than 30 hotels this summer with more to come. It is served in one of the brand’s original caviar glass dishes, but also used for an elegant presentation.

It comes with or without Whispering Angel Rosé (providing an alcohol-free sorbet scoop option). As Rosé continues to grow in popularity around the world, it seems like the ideal way to relax after a day of working or touring at a destination. The gelato and Rosé concepts represent some of the “simple pleasures of life,” a brand motto and something it does well. This is on the heels of a similar program from years ago where each property had its own French eclair recipe that represented the destination.

What are some recognizable elements of the brand?

The curated French music playlist in public areas is a way to the history of this company and celebrate its roots. It works well in all regions of the world and is a subtle reminder to slow down and relax. It’s in the lobby, bar and lounge, and often in the elevators, too.

The “Unlock Art” program is a popular way for guests to learn more about each destination. Most hotels have a partnership with a local art museum or gallery, which allows guests to flash their room key to get in for free and explore. It’s an add-on amenity that treats guests to something local, and business travelers, especially, like the convenience of it.

Even the room keys at Le Méridien hotels are works of art. You’ll often see them framed and on display in the lobby showcasing their colorful and clever style. In the guest rooms, a collaboration with Malin+Goetz led to a bespoke line of products using simple and natural ingredients that includes things like peppermint shampoo and sage-infused shower gel.

What are some of the iconic properties within the portfolio?

Including the flagship property Le Méridien Etoile, which opened in 1972 and remains in the portfolio, there are other iconic hotels for the brand. These include Le Méridien Beach Plaza - Monte Carlo, Le Méridien Nice and Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa. All of these are eligible for Marriott Bonvoy points earning and redemption.