New era and name for Novotel Norwest hotel with change of owners

The Novotel Norwest has changed to a Rydges under its new owners, who will also upgrade the hotel.

The Norwest hotel has been rebranded to a Rydges. Pictures: Angelo Velardo

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Guests at the Novotel Norwest may have noticed a change in signage recently.

The hotel on Columbia Court has been rebranded as a Rydges under new owners Merc Capital, which acquired the hotel last July.

Merc Capital chief executive officer and managing director Tony Merhi said the team had been “considering our options and worked to find the best fit for the hotel and our customers on a long-term basis”.

“As a local Australian brand, we believe that the Rydges team brings to Norwest a unique perspective, which reflects the area and the needs of our valued guests,” he said.

Rydges Norwest General Manager Nick McLaughlin at the hotel. Picture: Angelo Velardo

Accor, which previously managed the hotel, had a five-year agreement with a conditional option for extension to extend, which was not taken.

While the hotel has so far changed in name only, Mr Merhi said it would undergo a “major upgrade” expected to begin in the coming months.

“The upgrade will be phased and will see all 132 rooms, the restaurant, bar and conference facilities refreshed to add a contemporary vibrancy and reflect and complement the locale of the property,” he said.

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Merc Capital has future plans for a mixed-use development on the 2.27ha site, including a 300-room hotel with function and convention facilities.

“This is our long-term vision for the site,” Mr Merhi said.

“Our immediate focus is on upgrading the existing property to offer our guests an exceptional Rydges hotel experience and playing our part in the Norwest community, with the upgraded property intended to remain in situ for another decade.”