Accor has partnered with luxury goods giant LVMH to propel the development of Orient Express, two years after its acquisition of the renowned railway brand.
The collaboration comes at a pivotal time for the French multinational hospitality company. It will launch its inaugural Orient Express sailing ship in 2026, while its first Orient Express hotels in Rome, Venice, and Saudi Arabia, are scheduled to open in 2025.
“With Orient Express, Accor is reinventing the art of travel, discovery, and grand odysseys. Partnering with LVMH, we are opening a new chapter in this exciting journey, exploring new horizons and embodying the audacity and creative passion driving our groups,” said Sebastien Bazin, Accor Group chairman and chief executive officer. “We’re thrilled to leverage LVMH’s expertise to further the legend and bring it to life in a uniquely singular way.”
The first Orient Express ship is currently under construction at Chantiers de l’Atlantique in France, and both LVMH and Accor are seeking a third partner for the venture.
“Orient Express has embodied adventure and elegance since its inception. Its name is a part of our cultural heritage and inspires great artists,” said Bernard Arnault, LVMH group chairman and chief executive officer.
“Orient Express epitomises refined living and the audacity that drives our Houses. We are excited to partner with Accor to renew this travel icon, combining our expertise to elevate Orient Express to the pinnacle of hospitality.”
The move is the latest step into the world of hospitality by LVMH, as the company already has its own high-end hotel brand under LVMH Hotel Management, Cheval Blanc, and has owned Belmond since 2019, which also has its own luxury trains, as well as a wide portfolio of boats and hotels around the world.
