JO&JOE announces first China destinations

Following announcement of a long-term master franchise agreement earlier this year, Ennismore together with Accor and Funyard announce the signing of seven new projects in key urban centers of Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Changsha, Xiamen, Chongqing, Zhangjiajie and Xian.

The new JO&JOE locations will also feature new design concepts. Retaining the original characteristics of the global JO&JOE brand, several design elements have been tailor-made for the Chinese market, creating spaces that build a sense of community for locals and travelers alike.

The partnership aims to bring a whole new dimension of lifestyle experiences to many of China’s urban centers. An open house, JO&JOE is 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.

“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.”

“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 Chinese investors and developers, 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 China’s 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.”

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, 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.