Planning a massive family reunion, a corporate offsite, or a wedding? If you are eyeing an Accor property (Fairmont, Sofitel, Novotel, Pullman, ibis, etc.), you are looking at more than just a room block—you are looking at a serious opportunity to rack up points and negotiate perks that go way beyond the standard rate card.
Here is how to play the game when booking groups with Accor.
1. The “ALL Meeting Planner” Advantage
First, do not book as a “guest”—book as a “planner.” Accor has a specific loyalty pathway called the ALL Meeting Planner.
- The Earn: You typically earn 1 Reward Point and 1 Status Point for every €2 spent. This isn’t just on rooms; it applies to the banquet, the AV rental, and the flowers if booked through the hotel.
- The Double-Dip: If you are the organizer, you earn the points on the master bill. For weddings, this can instantly shoot you to Platinum or Diamond status.
- Pro Tip: Always check for “2x Points” promotions for events before signing. Accor runs these globally a few times a year.
2. Everything is Negotiable (Yes, Everything)
The biggest mistake people make is looking at the PDF rate card and thinking, “Well, that’s the price.” In group sales, the printed price is just the opening offer.
The “Fixed Rate” Myth
Often, a sales manager will tell you the “Per Plate” cost for a buffet is fixed by corporate policy. Fine, accept the price, but negotiate the value.
- Menu Engineering: If the plate cost is $50 + taxes and they won’t budge, ask for more within that price. Tell them, “For $50, I need you to add two extra live counters and a third dessert option.”
- The “Soft” Costs: Corkage fees are almost always negotiable. If you can’t get them waived, ask for a cap.
- The “Comp” Ratio: The industry standard is often 1 free room for every 40 or 50 paid rooms. Push for 1 per 30.
- Attrition Clause: This is the scariest part of the contract (the fee you pay if fewer people show up than expected). Negotiate a “slippage” allowance of 15-20% where you don’t pay a penalty if your uncle cancels last minute.
3. Choosing the Right Hotel: The “Vibe” Check
A hotel that is perfect for a conference might be a disaster for a wedding. Here is how to filter Accor’s portfolio:
For Weddings & Social Events
- The “Airport” Rule: If 50% of your guests are flying in, do not pick a hotel 2 hours away in city traffic, no matter how nice the lobby is. Look for properties like the Novotel near the airport or Pullman that offer shuttles. Your guests will thank you.
- Open Spaces vs. Ballrooms: For weddings, “air” is luxury. Look for properties with lawns or poolside decks. A generic ballroom with no windows feels like a conference.
- The “Bridal” Upgrade: Demand a suite upgrade for the couple. Not just a “better view,” but a proper suite. This should be non-negotiable in your contract.
For Corporate Meetings (MICE)
- Proximity to Business Hubs: If your office is in the city center, don’t book a resort on the outskirts just to save $20 per room. The cost of transport and lost time will eat those savings.
- Breakout Potential: Don’t just look at the main hall. Does the hotel have smaller “breakout” rooms nearby? Or will your team have to walk through the lobby to split into groups?
- Wi-Fi Bandwidth: For large groups, ask specifically about dedicated bandwidth. Hotel Wi-Fi often crashes when 200 people try to download a presentation at once.
4. Family Trips & “Small” Groups (8+ Rooms)
Even for a large family trip (15-20 people), do not book online individually. Contact the sales desk.
- Connecting Rooms: Group booking allows you to pre-block connecting rooms (essential for families with kids).
- Private Dining: You can often negotiate a small private section in the buffet restaurant for your group meals so you aren’t fighting for tables.
Final Rule: Never sign the first contract. The sales manager expects you to push back. Be polite, be firm, and get those extra starters included!
