In Lagos, where Nigeria’s economic energy meets vibrant culture, Mövenpick Hotel Ikoyi Lagos has quietly become a benchmark for responsible hospitality. Established in 2009 and part of the global Accor group, the hotel sits in one of the city’s most prestigious districts. Known for its warm service and refined business-luxury offerings, it has now earned international recognition for something deeper: its environmental strategy.

Mövenpick Hotel Ikoyi Lagos has been honored with an International Sustainability Award 2025 for its holistic and data-driven approach to reducing environmental impact. From energy optimization to innovative waste and water management, the hotel is proving that luxury and sustainability are no longer at odds.

In this exclusive interview, Alexander Chetchikov, President of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce, speaks with Simon Grindrod, the hotel’s General Manager, about leading change in a complex market, creating measurable sustainability outcomes, and what the future holds for conscious travel in West Africa.

Alexander Chetchikov: Simon, thank you for joining us. Let’s begin with the bigger picture. What shifts are you seeing in the luxury hospitality industry globally when it comes to sustainability and environmental responsibility?

Simon Grindrod: To answer your question, I’d say without a doubt that the global luxury hospitality industry is redefining excellence through environmental stewardship. Sustainability is now woven into the very fabric of luxury — it has become a standard practice, not just a trend.

• Green Operations: Eco-certifications and smart energy solutions are now integral to hotel management.

• Nature-Integrated Design: Resorts are embracing biophilic architecture and sustainable materials to deepen guests’ connection with nature.

• Local & Responsible Sourcing: Culinary programs increasingly feature farm-to-table menus and zero-waste kitchens.

• Community Impact: Brands are actively investing in local artisans, conservation projects, and regenerative tourism initiatives.

Luxury hospitality today is about delivering purpose-driven experiences — where guests are not only seeking comfort, but also meaningful travel that aligns with their environmental values.

AC: Guests today are more informed and values-driven. How are you seeing their expectations evolve at Mövenpick Hotel Ikoyi Lagos, and how do you respond as a leader?

SG: Today’s guests expect purpose-driven hospitality. At Mövenpick Hotel Ikoyi Lagos, we respond by prioritizing sustainability, celebrating local culture, and creating wellness-centered experiences. It’s no longer just about comfort—it’s about conscious impact. As a leader, I view this shift as a call to innovate, inspire our team, and lead with authenticity.

AC: Sustainability often requires both operational innovation and cultural change. What were some of the most significant internal shifts or decisions that allowed your team to move forward effectively?

SG: To advance sustainability at Mövenpick Hotel Ikoyi Lagos, we implemented a series of impactful operational changes. A robust recycling program and the reduction of single-use plastics have helped us minimize waste significantly. We’ve upgraded to energy-efficient LED lighting and introduced smart systems to optimize energy use across the property.

Our commitment to water conservation is reflected in the installation of low-flow showerheads, faucets, and dual-flush toilets- all designed to ensure guest comfort while substantially lowering water consumption. Additionally, we’ve placed instructional cards in guest rooms encouraging the reuse of towels and sheets. This initiative not only conserves water but also invites guests to actively participate in our sustainability journey.

Through these measures, we continue to embed eco-conscious practices into the everyday guest experience while reinforcing our promise to operate responsibly and innovatively.

AC: From water to waste to energy, your team has implemented measurable sustainability systems. Why was it important for you to build out actual metrics—and how have they helped drive performance?

SG: Why we track our Sustainability Metrics ?

It keeps our teams accountable and focused, It enables smarter data-driven decisions, it builds trust with eco-conscious guests and improves operational efficiency and cost savings.

The Impact of this on our performance ?

• Energy use dropped thanks to smart systems and LED upgrades.
• Water waste shrank through low-flow fixtures and linen reuse.
• Waste tracking helped us contribute towards reduced packaging and landfill impact.

Metrics make our sustainability goals real, trackable, and impactful; it is not just about the good intentions. 

AC: Let’s turn to your recent recognition. Winning the International Sustainability Awards in 2025 is a major milestone. What does this achievement mean for your hotel and team?

SG: Indeed, winning the International Sustainability Awards 2025 is more than a trophy, it’s a powerful affirmation of our team’s dedication to responsible hospitality. It validates the countless hours spent refining our operations, engaging guests, and embedding sustainability into every corner of the hotel.

What It Means to Us:

• Global Recognition: Being honored among top eco-leaders places Mövenpick Hotel Ikoyi Lagos on the international map for sustainable excellence.
• Team Pride: It energizes our staff, reinforcing that their daily efforts; from waste sorting to water-saving initiatives, truly matter.
• Guest Confidence: It reassures our guests that their stay supports a hotel committed to environmental stewardship.
• Momentum for Innovation: The award inspires us to push further; exploring new technologies, partnerships, and community programs.

This milestone isn’t the finish line, it’s actually is a launchpad – You know what they say about result of success….

AC: Can you take us back to the early days of these sustainability efforts—what sparked the decision to invest in new technologies like LED retrofitting, smart lighting, and low-flow systems?

SG: Since joining Accor – one of the world’s most sustainability-driven hospitality brands, Mövenpick Hotel Ikoyi Lagos has deepened its commitment to innovation and stewardship. Our journey began with a powerful belief that “Luxury should not cost the Earth, they can and must co-exist !”

Our purpose statement at Accor is “Pioneering the art of responsible hospitality, connecting cultures, with heartfelt care” – this is our Direction.

In addition to the above, we saw rising energy costs in the early days, growing guest awareness, and a global shift toward greener hospitality. These factors sparked a strategic decision to invest in technologies that would reduce our footprint without compromising comfort. We began with LED retrofitting and smart lighting systems to cut energy consumption and enhance operational efficiency. Water conservation followed, with the installation of low-flow showerheads, faucets, and dual-flush toilets. These upgrades weren’t just technical, they reflected a deeper cultural shift within our team, embracing sustainability as a shared value. Ultimately, it was about future-proofing our hotel and aligning with the values of our guests, our community, and our planet. That early commitment laid the foundation for everything we’ve achieved since.

AC: Nigeria presents unique opportunities and challenges. What makes this region a powerful place to drive sustainable hospitality, and where do you see the greatest untapped potential?

SG: I believe Nigeria is a powerhouse for sustainable hospitality, not just because of its size, but because of its soul. Here’s why this region is uniquely positioned to lead the charge:

The rich Cultural Heritage of over 250 ethnic groups, offers a vibrant tapestry of traditions, art, and cuisine, perfect for creating eco-friendly and culturally immersive guest experiences.

Expansion of the middle-class domestic tourism is rising alongside urbanization, thereby driving demand for high-quality hospitality that also honors environmental stewardship.

The incredible pool of vibrant, dynamic and creative talent of Nigerian Youths represents a powerful, untapped workforce ready to be trained in green hospitality practices.

Climate Realities which create challenges like water scarcity and energy shortages make sustainable solutions not only desirable but an absolute necessity.

There are equally some areas of untapped potentials/opportunities:

• Emerging destinations: Such as Ibadan, Enugu, and Calabar offer authentic travel experiences with lower operating costs and growing tourism appeal.

• Boutique & Experience-Driven Stays: Travelers now seek customized, culture-rich lodging. Boutique hotels rooted in local design and sustainability are gaining traction.

• Underused Green Technology: From solar power to biogas and energy recovery sustainable systems remain largely unexplored, despite Nigeria’s generous sunshine and potential.

• Local Sourcing & Community Impact: Hotels that prioritize local goods, from food to furniture, cut emissions and strengthen surrounding communities.

AC: Lastly, how do you personally stay inspired in your role—and what’s next for Mövenpick Hotel Ikoyi Lagos as it continues to lead in environmental performance?

SG: The development and growth of our amazing team motivates me. Our industry is built on the incredible heart, energy and passion of all who work in it. Helping others to grow their skills is inspiring to me.

Thank you, Simon, for sharing such thoughtful insights. Your team’s practical, results-driven approach to sustainability offers a clear model for others across the luxury and hospitality sectors.

To learn more about Mövenpick Hotel Ikoyi Lagos, visit their website.