Yoo Group, which was set up by designer Philippe Starck and property entrepreneur John Hitchcox 20 years ago, will use the new partnership to launch a series of Opus by Yoo Collection and Opus by yoo2 hotels across Canada and Mexico, as well as in “select” US locations.
The first of these North American properties will be the 100-suite Versante in Vancouver in early 2019, which will operate under the Opus by Yoo Collection brand.
Yoo Hotels already operates properties in Rio de Janeiro and Hong Kong, with further openings planned for the Cotswolds next year and both Phuket and Bali in 2019.
Opus is based in Vancouver and currently operates the Opus Hotel Vancouver, which has been open for 15 years.
John Hitchcox, chief executive of the Yoo Group said: “Opus Hotels Corporation is a perfect match for us. They complement our design-led philosophy with their market knowledge and hotel development experience.
“The partnership between Yoo Hotels and Resorts and Opus Hotels has created the perfect platform for growth and operational excellence of the Opus by Yoo brand across Canada, Mexico and selected markets in the US.
“This expansion in key markets will ensure even more travellers can experience our unique designs and guest experiences. We look forward to developing this strategic partnership with Opus Hotels and continue our growth journey.”
As well as the Vancouver hotel, further Opus by Yoo resorts are planned for development in Canada and on Mexico’s Pacific west coast.
John deCourcey Evans, founder and chief executive of Opus Hotels, added: “The exclusive development, co-branding and operating partnership with the internationally positioned Yoo Hotels and Resorts in Canada and Mexico is an acknowledgement of the excellence of the Opus brand.”
