On June 13, LVMH announced that it had entered into a strategic partnership with Accor, owner of Orient Express trains. This partnership is said to accelerate the renewal and development of the Orient Express.
Since its maiden voyage in 1883, Orient Express has embodied a lifestyle that concentrates on the extraordinary and the enchanting for customers seeking unique and sophisticated adventures. Since its acquisition by Accor in 2022, the company has developed new iconic businesses in trains, hotels, and sailing vessels.
According to the signed agreements, LVMH and Accor will collaborate closely through a strategic investment in the Orient Express brand. This investment will extend to the company responsible for managing the forthcoming hotels and trains, as well as the entity that will possess the two sailing ships. The first ship is currently under construction at Chantiers de l’Atlantique, France, and the two groups will continue to search together for a third partner for this new venture.
“Orient Express has embodied adventure and elegance since its origins. Its name has become part of our cultural heritage and remains a source of inspiration for the greatest artists. Orient Express epitomizes the art of refined living and the audacity that drives each of our Houses. We are delighted to be partnering with Accor to accelerate the renewal of this travel icon. Each of our groups will bring the best of its expertise to take Orient Express to the pinnacle of the art of hospitality,” said Bernard Arnault, LVMH Group Chairman and CEO.
Sébastien Bazin, Accor Group Chairman and CEO, also commented: “Orient Express is a legend ever since its creation 140 years ago, drawing on its roots and its oneiric universe while remaining at all times firmly focused on the future. With Orient Express, Accor is reinventing the art of travel, discovery and great odysseys. With LVMH today, we are opening a new chapter in this exciting journey, with the ambition of exploring new horizons and embodying the audacity and creative passion that drive our groups. We’re delighted to enlist LVMH’s rare expertise to continue pushing further the frontiers of this legend and bringing its embodiment to life in an ever more singular way.”
LVMH already owns the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and Belmond’s five trains that currently operate around the world under long-term licensing agreements.
By contributing to the revival of Orient Express, the company will further enhance its unique expertise in quality products and services. At the same time, it will further strengthen LVMH’s operational know-how and creativity in the hospitality industry.