From 2 to 100. The Radisson group is stepping up its efforts to make hotels carbon-free by rolling out its Verified Net Zero (VNZ) hotel programme. So far, the Radisson Manchester City Centre and the Radisson RED Oslo City Centre have served as tests of this policy, highlighting their environmental commitment through 100 % renewable energy, zero waste, low-carbon menus for stays or meetings without leaving a carbon footprint.
This Verified Net Zero hotel status is independently verified by TÜV Rheinland on the basis of a study based on the Net Zero methodology for hotels and aligned with the Science Based Targets Initiative. This recognition covers all three emission scopes, from renewable heat networks and green electricity to the impact of catering and the reception of business travellers and meetings.
The emphasis placed on this Verified Net Zero policy, particularly on the booking site, has had a convincing effect, with almost 20 % of customers choosing these hotels specifically for this status. " The results are very encouraging, with tangible carbon reductions across all Scopes, strong customer recognition and growing interest in our sustainable meetings offering. "said Inge Huijbrechts, Chief Sustainability & Security Officer of Radisson Hotel Group.
After last year's pilot phase, the Group will be rolling out its programme worldwide, based on a structured multi-year roadmap aimed at achieving 100 Net Zero certified hotels by 2030, including 10 by 2026. The Nordic countries, Norway, then Denmark and Sweden, will be the focus of the first developments this year, in addition to establishments in the United Kingdom and South Africa. Over five years, the programme will also cover Germany, Austria and the Canary Islands.
" Verified Net Zero hotels mark a major step towards our goal of net zero emissions: the hotel industry can reduce its environmental impact without sacrificing its economic and social contribution. "commented Federico J. González Tejera, CEO of Radisson Hotel Group. These addresses set new standards in sustainable conversion and should have an impact on the Group's future projects.
Growth momentum in Europe
In terms of development, the Group is stepping up its growth momentum by 2026, with the aim of strengthening its position as European leader in the upper upscale and resort segments. Among other things, through its Radisson Blu brand, present in 154 cities and 27 resort destinations.
With more than 270 hotel openings and signings last year, including 170 in China where the group is expanding its presence in the mid-range and upper mid-range segment with its Country Inn & Suites brand, the group also recorded almost 70 signings and openings in the EMEA region. These include the expected openings this year of the Radisson Cannes Seaside and, even more so, the Banke Opera Paris, a Radisson Collection in France.
Other projects are underway, in particular The Medlock, a Radisson Blu hotel integrated into the transformation of one of the grandstands. Manchester City's Etihad StadiumThe Radisson RED in Bucharest Old Town in Romania and the Radisson Oriente Hotel Barcelona, as well as the first establishment under the new Prize by Radisson brand in Osnabrück.
" The momentum we have built up in recent years, combined with the expertise and determination of our management teams, will enable us to strengthen our growth, resilience and prospects for 2026 and beyond. "says Elie Younes, Executive Vice President and Global Chief Development Officer of Radisson Hotel Group.
