Accor Enhances Accessibility for Guests with Disabilities Ahead of Paris 2024 Games
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Accor, a leading hospitality group, is taking significant steps to enhance accessibility for guests with disabilities, driven by the upcoming 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris. This initiative aims to improve the travel experience for people with disabilities and ensure inclusive services in Accor hotels.
As part of these efforts, 380 Accor brand hotels are undergoing "Tourisme & Handicap" certification. This certification, managed by Atout France since May 1, 2024, recognizes establishments that prioritize accessibility for all types of disabilities, including auditory, cognitive, physical, and visual. More than half of the group's hotels in host locations are part of this certification process, with over 80 hotels already certified and many others nearing completion.
Accor's commitment goes beyond certification. The group has introduced new solutions to enhance accessibility, including the innovative "Smart Room" concept. Launched in 2017, Smart Rooms are designed to exceed accessibility standards while maintaining aesthetic and functional appeal. Features include adjustable wardrobes, beds, and washbasins, as well as sliding doors for bathrooms, ensuring a seamless experience for guests with reduced mobility.
In addition to physical upgrades, Accor is leveraging digital solutions to support travelers with disabilities. For the 2024 Paralympic Games, the group will distribute 1,000 remote controls to visually impaired athletes and guests. These controls will enable users to activate standardized systems, facilitating safe and independent travel.
By continuously innovating and implementing best practices, Accor aims to make a positive impact on the lives of travelers with disabilities worldwide, ensuring that every guest feels valued and accommodated.