Relais & Chateaux Embarks on a Groundbreaking Sustainability Mission Under New Leadership
Relais & Chateaux, a globally renowned luxury lodging association with 580 properties across 65 countries, has embarked on a transformative sustainability journey under the new leadership of President Laurent Gardinier. Gardinier, who has been a part of the network for 18 years and owns two Michelin-starred member properties, is steering the organization towards a future where sustainability and luxury coexist harmoniously.
The association is recognized for its unique philosophy of “creating a better world through cuisine and hospitality.” Its member base comprises independent entrepreneurs, mostly family-run entities, including hotels, restaurants, and even ships. These establishments boast an impressive collective of 800 restaurants, accumulating a total of 340 Michelin stars, and offering guests a range of exceptional experiences from Argentinian haciendas to Irish castles and London boutique hotels.
Despite their independence, Relais & Chateaux members share a commitment to quality and local authenticity. This commitment is reflected in their rigorous selection process, accepting only about 25 of the 500 annual applications. Each property, including the 600 villas and 157 spas within the network, undergoes thorough standards inspections every three years.
Gardinier’s vision goes beyond maintaining the network’s esteemed quality; he is resolutely focused on enhancing sustainability. This shift is evident in the recalibration of the 500-point inspection scale to put greater emphasis on sustainable practices. Moreover, a dedicated committee will be established to solely focus on sustainability initiatives.
Relais & Chateaux has unveiled an ambitious sustainability plan, underlined by its first report titled “In Search of Hospitality in Harmony with the Natural World.” This report aims to measure and accelerate the association’s progress in environmental, social, and societal impacts. A significant goal is for half of its members to measure their carbon footprint by 2025, a substantial increase from 12% in the baseline year of 2021.
The association’s sustainability efforts are not new; it has actively participated in campaigns like World Oceans Day and Food for Change. The focus on sustainable cuisine, prioritizing local suppliers and culinary heritage, aligns with its ethos. Additionally, gender parity, diversity, employee welfare, geotourism, and local activism are integral to its mission.
Expansion remains on the agenda, with potential growth identified in North America and Asia. However, Gardinier asserts that any expansion will adhere strictly to the association’s high standards and not be driven solely by geographical representation.
Under Gardinier’s leadership, Relais & Chateaux is redefining luxury hospitality, intertwining it with a deep commitment to sustainability, quality, and local engagement. This pioneering approach positions the association as a leader in shaping a more sustainable and responsible future for the global hospitality industry.