MEDIA RELEASE 11 APRIL 2006

Accor, the world’s largest hotel and tourism group, recently consolidated their entire IT business with Corporate Express. The Accor group is well known for brands such as Ibis, Novotel, Sofitel, Mercure and All Seasons and was operating an IT system with varying standards and dealing with multiple suppliers.

Nick Grandioso, National Procurement Manager for Accor said that contemplating the transition for the group was daunting.

“Even though we implemented an approved IT products list, enforcing it was the biggest concern. With 100 hotels across all states, we needed an IT Partner who could also manage the relationships that run our industry,” said Mr. Grandioso.

“Corporate Express helped us manage the transition process. They have the national footprint, infrastructure and culture that fosters good relationships and are efficient in how they leverage it all,” he said.

“Today we not only have IT standards in place, but excellent local relationships across the board. Our hotels are happy and so I am happy. Our partnership continues to grow from strength to strength.”

The IT Solutions Division of Corporate Express delivers product and services across three main areas for Accor: hardware, implementation and networks.

Wayne Stickle, National Account Manager at Corporate Express, said the company offers a complete end-to-end solution coupled with seamless service for large groups such as Accor.

“We have concentrated on helping Accor implement a global IT standard for the best price available. These hotels run 24x7 so timing and handover of an upgraded IT environment is critical and has to be precise. In this sense, our IT Division is an extension of their operation,” Mr. Stickles said.

“Any organization with 100 cost centres also requires immediate on the spot service. Accor hotel staff can pick up the phone at any hotel and contact their local Corporate Express Account Manager.

“Another business benefit to Accor is that they can access ‘best of brand’ for any item in any location, while still receiving on monthly consolidated invoice if they wish,” said Stickel.

Corporate Express is Australia’s leading supplier of office products and business supplies. The company, now in its 11th year in Australia, has 25 branches around Australia and New Zealand.

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Released for Corporate Express by Dennis Rutzou Public Relations.
For further information contact Nicola Rutzou or Kim Larochelle on (02) 9413 4244.