Orient-Express Hotels Ltd.  confirmed that is has changed its name from Orient-Express Hotels Ltd. to Belmond Ltd. following approval from shareholders at the 2014 annual general meeting of shareholders (“AGM”) held on June 30, 2014. Furthermore, the Company intends to change the ticker symbol of its class A common shares listed on the New York Stock Exchange from OEH to BEL on July 28, 2014.

Photo credit Belmond

Brand With New Name

Belmond belmond.com is a global collection of exceptional hotel and luxury travel adventures in some of the world’s most inspiring and enriching destinations. Established almost 40 years ago with the acquisition of Belmond Hotel Cipriani in Venice, its unique and distinctive portfolio now embraces 45 hotel, rail and river cruise experiences in many of the world’s most celebrated destinations. From city landmarks to intimate resorts, the collection includes Belmond Grand Hotel Europe, St. Petersburg; Belmond Copacabana Palace, Rio de Janeiro; Belmond Maroma Resort & Spa, Riviera Maya; and Belmond El Encanto, Santa Barbara. Belmond also encompasses safaris, six luxury tourist trains, including the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, and three river cruises. Belmond also operates ‘21’, one of New York’s most storied restaurants. Orient-Express is a trademark of SNCF. 

“We are pleased to be able to align our corporate identity with that of our primary luxury brand, Belmond, following its well-received launch earlier this year,” said John M. Scott, president and chief executive officer of Belmond Ltd. “This decision gives clarity to our brand architecture and, combined with changing our ticker symbol later this month, is the final stage in our successful transition to Belmond.”

Shareholders also approved the election of eight directors to the Company’s board of directors at the AGM, including a new independent director, Roeland Vos, a seasoned business executive with strong board and luxury hospitality operations experience. The reappointment of Deloitte LLC as the Company’s independent auditors was also approved by shareholders.

What do you think, like the new name ?