16/10/2021

INTERVIEW: Eric Dardé, President & CEO of Beaumier

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In 2021, Les Hôtels d'en Haut was renamed Beaumier Hotels. Even though the project was initially made of meetings and sharing of visionary concepts, it seems significant that the collection was named after an explorer, for we still have much to discover in the future. The name suggests space, territory, authenticity, emotions, and wonders. From the highest peaks of Europe, Eric Dardé, a leading expert in the field of luxury hotels, speaks with emotion and sincerity about this stunning collection, which will certainly reflect tomorrow's values.

Les Roches rouges, Saint-Raphaël

Vendom.jobs - Could you outline Beaumier's history, its origins?

Eric Dardé - The mountains. Our adventure begins there. In 2011, we seized the opportunity to acquire a resort, followed by another two. We were driven by a hunch about the future of lifestyle and leisure hotels on the most beautiful French alps. In accordance, we have named the company Les Hôtels d'en Haut. The brand had no particular ambition, nor did it have any special status. Why was Beaumier founded? A group of talented people with a shared vision and values has somehow determined this. The refurbishment of the Hotel Les Roches Rouges in Saint-Raphaël in 2015 gathered the studio Be-pôles, the architects of Festen, the sculptor Guy Bareff, the fisherman Olivier Bardoux, and our teams... A wonderful partnership was established. Working together, as the project unfolded, we developed a common perception of what we wanted to achieve; a holiday resort, each anchored in a unique territory, which inspires memorable experiences.

V.J. - You were formerly employed by important groups. We can assume in this post crisis context that customers will be drawn towards addresses such as yours, offering greater intimacy and authenticity, particularly immediately. Could you describe the future of luxury hospitality industry.

E. D. - There is a growing social awareness influencing people’s lives and each of our lives, and this has an impact on luxury and what luxury is/should be. The importance of reconnecting to the essentials, of caring for our planet and environment of caring for one another, of improving equilibrium between social classes and the fact that the trend of globalization and capitalism seem to move towards proximity, cultural values, sharing, and environmental protection, among others, are all influencing luxury. New generations' assets, regardless of their means, are no longer limited to "money", but rather to their inner resources and wellbeing: discovering locations, nature, and eating better, experiencing new cultures, feelings, and self-care. Trends are based on feelings and emotions rather than on objects or commodities. Certainly, we are willing to purchase, but conscious of the positive impact on our environment and future. Instead of buying "products", we will buy the history of the product, its value, what it signifies, its impact, and, most of all, how it might interact with our values. 

Capelonge, Bonnieux

Luxury experiences prevail over ownership of products but also on services and sharing. Customers express a growing demand for emotional, sensory, and even spiritual experiences towards an emotional, inclusive, and unique luxury experience. Hospitality should commit sincerely and at all levels; to their customers, teams/collaborators, suppliers and partners.

V.J. - What motivates your customers to travel to your hotels?

E.D.- Being surrounded by nature, with family, friends, or their partner. Spending time where it feels comfortable, “holidaying” and being confident that it is worthwhile.

V.J. - Could you tell us about some of the upcoming developments?

E.D.- We are looking forward to our development in the Alps in Switzerland, Italy, and Spain. Our aims are to expand by 1 or 2 new acquisitions annually therefore we expect to announce a new acquisition in a few weeks.

L'Alpaga, Megève

V.J. - What were your expectations with regard to the "EXCELLENCE by Vendôm" International recruitment fair?

E.D.- To share, exchange and establish new contacts!

Le Galinier, Lourmarin

(Photo credit: Beaumier)

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