Hotel Chadstone Melbourne, MGallery by Sofitel, has opened for business, with the property’s first guests checking-in on 1 November.

The five-star, AUS130 million hotel was opened on Friday by the by John Gandel AC; Victorian Minister for Suburban Development, The Hon. Marlene Kairouz MP; Vicinity Centres CEO and managing director Grant Kelley and chairman & CEO, Accor Asia Pacific, Michael Issenberg.

Discussing the opening Issenberg said, “Accor is honoured to work with Vicinity Group, who have delivered on their vision to create what is really a one-of-a-kind stay, shop and dine experience for Melbourne.

“Vicinity is a world-leader in retail asset management and Accor is not only the largest operator of hotels and resorts in Australia, but now the world’s second largest operator of luxury hotels. It’s a perfect partnership, and one that provides us with an opportunity to expand our luxury footprint in Melbourne, with MGallery delivering a stylish and memorable experience for our guests.”

Vicinity Centres CEO and Managing Director Grant Kelley said, “We’re proud to be introducing Hotel Chadstone to our local community and Melbourne’s growing visitor market, who have come to expect a world-class experience at Chadstone – The Fashion Capital.  “Hotel Chadstone elevates Chadstone’s iconic position as one of the world’s best lifestyle destinations, bringing together retail, dining, entertainment, tourism, business and now accommodation.

“The new five-star hotel is another important addition to Vicinity’s portfolio of mixed-use assets and reinforces the capability of our team to deliver mixed-use projects, ensuring we continue to exceed our customers’ expectations.”

Fiona Mackenzie, Chadstone director, said, “With the country’s largest luxury retail precinct, Chadstone is synonymous with excellence and premium experiences and we’re thrilled to extend this offering with Hotel Chadstone setting a new benchmark for luxury accommodation as the first five-star hotel outside Melbourne’s CBD.

“With more than 24 million people visiting Chadstone every year, including 500,000 from overseas, Hotel Chadstone will be an in-demand destination for domestic and international tourists and visitors, as well as business travellers and those attending corporate events,” Ms Mackenzie said.