Iran firm signs branding deal with French hotel chain
An Iranian firm signed an agreement with a major French hotel chain on Tuesday, in the first deal of its kind since Tehran reached a historic agreement with world powers on its disputed nuclear program.
Under the contract, the Aria Ziggurat Tourism Development Company will use the Novotel and ibis brands, both owned by French hotel giant AccorHotels, for 15 years starting next month. The two firms did not publicize the amount of the contract.
"We are certain that Novotel and ibis will fit perfectly into the growth momentum that Iran's hospitality sector is enjoying," AccorHotels Chairman and CEO Sebastien Bazin told reporters at a press conference in Tehran. "Our brands are looking at huge growth potential in this country, which is home to almost 80 million people and is expanding its economy."
Mehdi Jahangiri, Aria Ziggurat's chairman, said "the expertise of international hospitality groups will upgrade local standards and existing levels of service in our hotels, and ultimately add value to our business."
