Accor signs a definitive binding agreement on the sale of its stake in Essendi
Accor sells its ~30.7% stake in Essendi to a Blackstone and Colony IM consortium for up to €975M, with hotels converting to 20-year franchise contracts and €500M returned to shareholders via buyback.
Following the press releases issued on April 1st, 2026, Accor announces that it has signed on July 23rd, 2026, a definitive binding agreement regarding the sale of its c.30.7% stake in Essendi (formerly AccorInvest), in line with the terms agreed in the memorandum of understanding:
The disposal of Accor’s entire stake to a consortium comprised of Blackstone and Colony IM for a consideration of up to c.€975 million, including c.€675 million to be received upon closing of the transaction and an earn-out of up to 300 million euros;
The gradual conversion of Essendi’s hotel portfolio into franchise contracts, in line with the Group’s strategy to simplify and further strengthen the resilience and predictability of its business model. All hotels in the portfolio would remain under Accor brands and the new franchise agreements would have an average duration of 20 years.
Accor confirms that the transaction would be consistent with the recurring EBITDA trajectory presented at the Capital Markets Day on June 27, 2023.
The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026 after customary regulatory and antitrust approvals.
As previously stated, when the transaction is completed, Accor will return most of the disposal proceeds to shareholders through an additional €500 million share buyback program.
About Accor, a world-leading hospitality group
Accor is a world-leading hospitality group offering stays and experiences across more than 110 countries with over 5,600 hotels and resorts, 10,000 bars & restaurants, wellness facilities and flexible workspaces. The Group has one of the industry's most diverse hospitality ecosystems, encompassing around 45 hotel brands from luxury to economy, as well as Lifestyle with Ennismore. ALL, the booking platform and loyalty program embodies the Accor promise during and beyond the hotel stay and gives its members access to unique experiences. Accor is focused on driving positive action through business ethics, responsible tourism, environmental sustainability, community engagement, diversity, and inclusivity. Accor's mission is reflected in the Group's purpose: Pioneering the art of responsible hospitality, connecting cultures, with heartfelt care. Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France. Included in the CAC 40 index, the Group is publicly listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Exchange (ISIN code: FR0000120404) and on the OTC Market (Ticker: ACCYY) in the United States. For more information, please visit group.accor.com or follow us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok.
About Essendi
At Essendi, we do more than operate hotels: we create the dynamics that make them thrive. As a European leader in the economy and midscale segments, we invest and operate with a single ambition: to transform each asset into a sustainable, vibrant, and meaningful place. We combine asset management and operational excellence to unlock the unique potential of every hotel.
Present in 24 countries with 20,000 employees, we operate 576 hotels under internationally renowned brands such as ibis, Novotel, and Mercure, etc.
Wherever we are, we are committed to fostering positive hospitality, acting for the benefit of our business, our teams, and the world around us.
Learn more at Essendi.com
Media Contact
Charlotte Thouvard
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