Fletcher Hotels expands into Europe: first hotel in Germany a reality

A big step for the well-known Dutch hotel chain Fletcher Hotels: from 1 August, the first hotel under the company's blue and white flag will open in Germany. The Waldhotel in Nordrhein–Westphalia, from 1 August called Fletcher Waldhotel Nordrhein–Westfalen, is the first European hotel to be added to the impressive portfolio of the largest hotel chain known to the Netherlands. "After years of preparation and research, Fletcher Hotels is ready for this first step beyond its national borders. However, Germany is just the beginning, our goal after this is to expand like an oil slick to the whole of Europe," says CEO Rob Hermans. 

Hermans has always had an idiosyncratic vision when it comes to running the well-known hotel chain. For example, all hotels 100% are owned by Fletcher Hotels; the result of the unique retail structure that ensures a strong financial position and clout within the market. "Our organisation, where a retail structure is the common thread for shaping the hotel business, offers a unique position in the market,"Says Hermans. "Thanks to this structure, everything is centrally organised and the strategy can be defined and implemented effectively by the head office. This makes the step towards European expansion easier and more efficient."

Fletcher Hotels has worked intensively over the past three years to prepare for the expansion. With the acquisition of the Waldhotel, a comfortable accommodation with 80 rooms, bar, restaurant, wellness facilities and a wedding licence, Fletcher Hotels is taking its first steps on the European market. In choosing this hotel as the first across the country's borders, Fletcher Hotels did not take any chances. The Waldhotel perfectly fits the profile of what the Dutch tourist is looking for in Germany: a beautiful and extensive walking and cycling area, just a few hours' drive from Utrecht with excellent eating and drinking options. These insights are based on research conducted by Rotterdam students from Erasmus University, who mapped the wishes and needs of Dutch tourists across the border for Fletcher Hotels.

The Waldhotel is just the beginning of Fletcher's ambitious plans. Two new hotels in Europe are already in the pipeline and will be announced soon. Under the leadership of CEO Rob Hermans, who previously worked for Free Recordshop as marketing manager, Fletcher Hotels has laid a solid foundation for its expansion. Hermans' extensive experience within the retail domain and his vision for the future, have contributed to the company's successful growth. 

About Fletcher Hotels

Founded in 1997, Fletcher Hotels has developed over 25 years into the largest hotel chain in the Netherlands. With 115 hotels across the country, Fletcher Hotels offers a wide range of accommodation, ranging from charming boutique hotels to luxury resorts. Each hotel reflects the local culture and environment, while always guaranteeing Fletcher's signature quality and hospitality.