Jonathan Sheard: Accor has identified 10 possible UK locations for MGallery brand

In a video interview filmed at the newly-opened MGallery Francis Hotel Bath, Sheard revealed the France-based company had a target of no more than 150 hotels under the 'memorable collection' brand across the world.

The Bath venue, formerly a Macdonald hotel, was acquired by real estate investors Moorfield in 2007. It was originally operated by Accor under the Mercure brand.  

Although Sheard admitted the transformation process was expensive, the hotelier said more Mercure hotels could follow and become MGallery sites in the 10 UK locations Accor has said would be suitable for the brand.

Sheard, who began his Accor career as a Novotel general manager in Sheffield, explained what changes had been made to the famous Bath venue, told BigHospitality the refurb of other Mercure hotels was progressing well and explained what he believed to be the biggest change in the industry during his career.