How to Franchise with Atour Hotel: A Business that is Expected to Grow 30% In Revenue in 2024

Franchising with Atour Hotel opens up a world of opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. Known for its robust franchise model, Atour Hotel offers a blend of comprehensive support and proven success strategies. 

The key aspects of franchising with Atour Hotel are understanding the franchise model the steps required to become a franchisee, financial considerations, and the benefits of joining this esteemed brand.

Key Takeaways

  • Atour Hotel's franchise model is designed to support franchisees with comprehensive training and ongoing operational assistance.
  • The initial investment includes various fees, but the potential for high returns and revenue is significant.
  • Atour Hotel provides robust marketing and brand support at both national and local levels, ensuring strong brand recognition and customer loyalty.
  • Franchisees benefit from Atour Hotel's proven operational standards and quality assurance programs, which help maintain high service levels.
  • The company has ambitious growth and expansion plans, making it an exciting time to join as a franchisee.

Atour Hotel Franchise Model


The Atour Hotel franchise model is designed to offer a premium experience for both business and leisure travelers. Key features include:

  • Franchise agreements typically span 8-15 years.
  • An upfront franchise fee ranging from 4,000-6,000 RMB($73 ~ $90) per room.
  • Monthly franchise fees of 5-6% of gross revenue.
  • Access to Atour's established brand and customer base.

Franchisees benefit from Atour's strong market presence and support system. Some of the main advantages include:

  • Brand recognition in the upper midscale hotel market.
  • Comprehensive training and ongoing support.
  • Access to a robust reservation system and marketing tools.
  • Opportunities to capitalize on Atour's retail and digital initiatives.

Atour provides extensive support to ensure the success of its franchisees. This includes:

  • Comprehensive training programs for new franchisees.
  • Ongoing operational support to maintain high standards.
  • Marketing and promotional assistance at both national and local levels.
  • Regular quality assurance checks to ensure consistency and excellence.

Atour's commitment to its franchisees is evident in its structured support system, designed to help franchisees thrive in a competitive market.

Steps to Become an Atour Hotel Franchisee

To start your journey with Atour Hotel, you need to meet some initial requirements. First and foremost, potential franchisees should have a strong financial background. This includes having enough capital to cover the initial investment and ongoing operational costs. 

Additionally, experience in the hospitality industry is highly valued, though not mandatory. Atour also looks for individuals who are passionate about customer service and have a keen interest in the hotel business.

The application process is straightforward but thorough. Here are the steps:

  1. Submit an Inquiry: Fill out an online form expressing your interest in becoming a franchisee.
  2. Initial Screening: Atour's team will review your inquiry and conduct an initial screening to ensure you meet the basic qualifications.
  3. Detailed Application: If you pass the initial screening, you'll be asked to complete a more detailed application form.
  4. Interview: Qualified applicants will be invited for an interview to discuss their goals and alignment with Atour's values.
  5. Site Visit: A site visit may be conducted to evaluate the proposed location for the new hotel.

Once your application is approved, the onboarding process begins. This includes signing the franchise agreement and paying the initial franchise fee. You'll then receive comprehensive training and support to help you get started. Atour provides ongoing operational support to ensure your hotel's success. With persistence, you can secure a rewarding position as an Atour Hotel franchisee.

Becoming an Atour Hotel franchisee is a structured process designed to ensure both the franchisee and the brand are set up for success. From initial requirements to the final onboarding, each step is crucial in building a strong foundation for your new business.

Financial Considerations for Atour Hotel Franchisees

Becoming an Atour Hotel franchisee requires an initial investment that covers various costs. These include franchise fees, royalties, and marketing contributions. The initial costs can be substantial, but they are essential for joining the Atour network.

Atour Hotel franchisees can expect a promising return on investment (ROI). The company's strong financial performance and strategic growth in the hotel sector contribute to a competitive revenue potential. Franchisees benefit from Atour's established brand and customer loyalty, which drive occupancy rates and revenue.

Atour offers several financing options to help franchisees manage their initial investment and ongoing expenses. These options include loans, payment plans, and potential partnerships with financial institutions. This support makes it easier for franchisees to start and sustain their business.

Atour's commitment to supporting its franchisees financially ensures that they have the resources needed to succeed in the competitive hospitality industry.

Marketing and Brand Support

Atour Hotel employs a comprehensive marketing strategy that includes both national and local efforts. National campaigns are designed to build brand recognition and attract a broad audience, while local marketing initiatives focus on engaging the community and driving traffic to individual hotels. This dual approach ensures that franchisees benefit from widespread brand awareness and targeted local promotions.

Atour Hotel's strong brand recognition is a significant asset for franchisees. The brand is well-known for its quality and consistency, which helps in attracting and retaining customers. Additionally, Atour has a robust loyalty program that rewards repeat guests, fostering long-term relationships and encouraging repeat business.

Atour Hotel leverages digital marketing to reach a wider audience and enhance customer engagement. This includes a strong presence on social media, email marketing campaigns, and an easy-to-navigate website. Moreover, Atour emphasizes cultural initiatives that resonate with guests, such as promoting local art and culture within the hotels. These efforts not only enhance the guest experience but also differentiate Atour from competitors.

Operational Excellence and Training

Atour Hotel places a strong emphasis on franchise training to ensure compliance with franchise standards. Their comprehensive training programs are tailored to meet the specific needs of each brand, keeping franchisees updated with the latest brand requirements. These programs cover various aspects of hotel management, from customer service to operational efficiency.

Training and support are indispensable factors in achieving performance standards within franchise agreements. Atour Hotel provides continuous operational support to its franchisees, helping them maintain high performance standards. This support includes regular check-ins, performance reviews, and access to a dedicated support team.

To maintain excellence, Atour Hotel has a robust quality assurance system in place. This system ensures that all hotels adhere to the brand's high standards. Regular audits and feedback mechanisms help in identifying areas for improvement and implementing necessary changes promptly.

Atour Hotel's commitment to operational excellence and training ensures that franchisees are well-equipped to deliver exceptional service and maintain the brand's reputation.

Future Growth & Expansion Plans



Atour Hotel has ambitious plans for the future. In 2023, the company opened 289 new hotels, bringing the total number of hotels in operation to 1,210. This year, Atour aims to open 360 new hotels, with 200 to 220 being Atour hotels and 60 to 80 being Atour Light hotels. The goal is to reach 2,000 premier hotels by 2025.

Atour is focused on solidifying its position in the upper mid-scale market while expanding its brand awareness in the middle-scale market. The company aims to create a sustainable, mutually beneficial franchisee ecosystem to drive steady growth. Atour's expansion strategy includes opening new hotels in core business districts and leveraging its competitive development team.

Atour is committed to enhancing customer experiences by integrating cultural elements and advancing digital services. The company plans to launch new products, particularly in the sleep category, to meet evolving customer demands. 

Atour's retail business has seen substantial growth, contributing significantly to the company's revenue. The company targets a 30% revenue growth for 2024, with a strong focus on expanding product categories and enhancing brand value.

Learning from the Franchising Model

Franchising with Atour Hotel opens a world of opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. With a strong brand, proven business model, and a focus on both cultural and digital experiences, Atour is well-positioned for continued growth. Their commitment to expanding their hotel network and enhancing customer experiences ensures that franchisees will be part of a thriving and innovative ecosystem. 

As Atour continues to grow and evolve, franchisees can look forward to being part of a dynamic and successful venture. Whether you're new to franchising or looking to expand your portfolio, Atour Hotel offers a promising path to success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the initial investment required to franchise with Atour Hotel?

The initial investment to franchise with Atour Hotel varies depending on the location and size of the hotel. It generally includes franchise fees, construction costs, and working capital.

How long does the application process take to become an Atour Hotel franchisee?

The application process usually takes a few months. It includes submitting an application, undergoing a review, and meeting with Atour's team for approval.

What kind of support does Atour Hotel provide to its franchisees?

Atour Hotel offers comprehensive support, including training programs, marketing assistance, and ongoing operational support to ensure the success of its franchisees.

Are there financing options available for potential franchisees?

Yes, Atour Hotel provides various financing options to help potential franchisees. They work with financial institutions to offer loans and other financial assistance.

What are the revenue potential and return on investment (ROI) for an Atour Hotel franchise?

The revenue potential and ROI can vary, but many franchisees see a strong return due to Atour's established brand and customer base. Detailed financial projections are provided during the application process.

What marketing strategies does Atour Hotel use to promote its franchises?

Atour Hotel uses a mix of national and local marketing strategies, including digital marketing, cultural initiatives, and loyalty programs to attract and retain customers.