Lille continues to raise the bar

The hospitality industry in Lille has seen impressive growth since the city’s nomination as European Capital of Culture in 2004. But other forces are at work as well.

The development of business tourism and the many events organized at Lille Grand Palais have also contributed to this growth. Lille now counts 7,500 hotel rooms, up from 6,700 in 2008; 200 of them are in 5-star accommodations. “New luxury hotels have opened–Hôtel Casino Barrière, Up Hotel, Why Hotel, Clarance Hotel –while others have been bought and renovated,” says Emmanuel Thébaux, president of the Club H  In addition, a hotel ranking reform in 2009 rewarded hotels such as Hermitage Gantois and Casino Barrière an additional star.

Lille, which represents 25% of the Hauts-de-France region’s hotel capacity, sees its offer grow and improve year after year. “The changes in the hospitality industry are a result of consumer demand.The clientele expects a personalized and rather high-quality offer at an accessible price point,” says Emmanuel Thébaux.

Two exciting projects on the horizon

The former Polish consulate, acquired by Lille entrepreneur Marc Lelieur, proprietor of numerous hotels and restaurants in the city, is to become a 4-star Best Western. Located on Boulevard Carnot at the entrance to Lille, the Arbre Voyageur will offer 50 design-forward rooms.

In 2017, Euralille will welcome the highly anticipated Mama Shelter hotel, with interiors designed by Philippe Starck.

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