Accor, Ennismore and Funyard announce new JO&JOE destinations across China

Significant achievements with seven project signings and the design of new room concepts.

Accor, Ennismore and Funyard shared the early progress of their recently announced strategic partnership to develop the international lifestyle brand, JO&JOE, across China. The partnering companies are pleased to announce the brand’s first Chinese destinations, along with their new design concepts. New JO&JOE destinations are underway in progressive communities within the key urban centers of Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Changsha, Xiamen, Chongqing, Zhangjiajie and Xian. The agreement between the hospitality leaders was signed in April 2022, establishing Funyard as Accor and Ennismore’s exclusive strategic partner of the JO&JOE brand in China, with a plan to develop over 1,300 properties.

“JO&JOE is absolutely the right brand in the right market at the right time, and we are very excited with the swift pace at which our strategic partnership with Funyard is progressing,” said Gary Rosen, Chief Executive Officer, Accor Greater China. “In just under four months, we have completed the design concepts and signed multiple development agreements to bring the unconventional, uplifting, and eco-friendly JO&JOE brand to some of the busiest communities in China. We are confident that JO&JOE is going to add a whole new dimension of lifestyle experiences to many of China’s urban centers, attracting young spirited Chinese travelers and locals who love to be part of something unique and fun!”

Accor, Ennismore and Funyard anticipate a bright and dynamic future for JO&JOE in China, with vast opportunity for expansion. Highly suitable to top-tier, fast-growing cities, as well as provincial capitals, the JO&JOE brand will further energize the Chinese urban experience, breathing vitality and vibrancy into the country’s metropolitan communities.

While retaining the original characteristics of the global JO&JOE brand, Accor, Ennismore and Funyard have customized several elements tailor-made for the Chinese market. JO&JOE will be built or renovated as modestly-sized properties for accommodation as well as non-accommodation income streams – such as locally appealing places to eat and drink as well as hosting events. By linking hospitality with building a sense of community, JO&JOE will create new gathering spots, in particular for Gen Z locals and travelers.

“Our partnership with Accor and Ennismore is off to a tremendous start and we are absolutely thrilled with the overwhelming response to the JO&JOE brand from the Chinese market, proving that JO&JOE is a brand whose time has arrived and welcomed in China,” said Jeff Zhang, Executive President, Funyard Hotels & Resorts. “With seven fantastic destinations now underway, we look forward to pushing forward with many more opportunities to inject JO&JOE’s unique style and welcoming vibe into the most interesting and up-and-coming neighborhoods.”

Gaurav Bhushan, Co-CEO, Ennismore, said: “After only four months of signing this ambitious partnership, I am delighted that seven new properties have already been secured. We look forward to pursuing more growth opportunities for the JO&JOE brand in China and to continuing this exciting journey with our partners.”

JO&JOE, which is part of Ennismore – a global lifestyle collective – is styled as an open house – a living place concept that breaks traditional hotel mindsets to create a new standard for Chinese lifestyle hospitality. With urban art, edgy design, and casual eating and drinking featuring authentic comfort food and trendy cocktails, travelers as well as locals will experience the fun of a local hotspot combined with the comforts of a hotel.

The signature open house concept of JO&JOE encourages cultural exchange and coexistence, with an abundance of common spaces for dining, entertainment, events and work, both indoors and outdoors. Simple yet playful design schemes blend smoothly with environmentally friendly raw materials used in the architecture and furnishings. Guests may choose from a diverse range of accommodation styles. Together rooms are ideal for a family or group of friends who wish to bunk together with adaptable modular space. Alternatively, Yours rooms offer hotel-style rooms designed to accommodate two or three people. Each JO&JOE offers live music and entertainment during the day and at night in a variety of styles for the interests of guests and locals.

By connecting with the local vibe, engaging guests, and maintaining an eco-conscious mindset, JO&JOE is committed to creating a positive hospitality experience. Intelligent technology systems will increase security and efficiency, while sustainable operations will reduce emissions, save energy, and reduce consumption. Many of Accor’s best practices will feature prominently throughout the JO&JOE guest journey, including the use of a biodegradable solution to replace single-use plastics. Through local partnerships to keep its communities clean and healthy, JO&JOE strives to promote local life, sustainable habits, and meaningful travel experiences.

Outside of China, JO&JOE offers locations in Europe including Paris, Hossegor, Vienna, Medellin, and the newly opened Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Other upcoming global destinations include Rome, Budapest, and Auckland.