Accor and the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA), a global organization dedicated to advancing LGBTQ+ tourism, have announced a global partnership.

Accor and IGLTA will work to ensure the hospitality industry is a safe and inclusive space for all and will facilitate and drive equality within the travel sector. The collaboration is the first step in demonstrating the new, essential pillar within Accor’s Diversity & Inclusion commitment: to increase momentum in welcoming and valuing LGBTQ+ team members, clients and communities.

The partnership is an important statement by Accor about its belief in the social and economic benefits of LGBTQ+ tourism and the need to make all travellers feel welcome. With an annual reach of more than 4 million LGBTQ+ consumers, the Platinum-level Partnership with IGLTA commits Accor to promote LGBTQ+ tourism and signals the Group’s values as an open and inclusive company to LGBTQ+ communities.

As a global player and major employer in the hospitality industry, Accor recognises the critical role it must take in setting and enforcing the standard for diversity and inclusion. The challenges of the last year have only reinforced the importance of community and the relevance of the Group’s values: inclusion, equity and care for others. These core pillars are a great strength and driver of momentum throughout the Group, cultivating company-wide innovation and performance, and creating an inclusive environment for all to thrive in.

Accor has long taken a proactive and engaged approach to diversity, equity and inclusion. Whether it is through implementing internal inclusion policies, promoting external messaging such as ibis’ “We are Open” campaign, or sponsoring Pride marches, Accor seeks to be a leader on LGBTQ+ issues and is proud to partner with IGLTA on this initiative.

“We have long admired Accor’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion and are thrilled to expand our relationship to an integrated, year-round approach to advancing LGBTQ+ travel,” said, John Tanzella, President/CEO, IGLTA. “Accor’s commitment to creating safe, welcoming experiences for LGBTQ+ travellers and to championing diversity within their team perfectly aligns with IGLTA’s mission and the work of our global partners.”

“Diversity and inclusion week is an incredibly important time for Accor to celebrate our people and our differences. It is also a crucial time to focus on the next steps and continue to evaluate where we can improve. We strive to continuously build upon and develop initiatives to ensure the LGBTQ+ community feels supported to travel and experience the world, and our new pillar within our Group policy reflects our commitment to this essential area,” said Anne Sophie Beraud, VP Group Diversity & Inclusion, Accor.