Brussels-based hotel group, Rezidor SAS has announced it has signed a management contract for the first in a new chain of Regent-branded hotels.

The Regent Esplanade Hotel in Zagreb is also the first move into Croatia by the company and is currently in the final stages of renovation, ready to open in January next year.

Kurt Ritter, president and CEO of Rezidor SAS Hospitality, said: “I am absolutely thrilled we have signed out first Regent. It’s the addition of another flagship property to our portfolio.

“In its heyday the Esplanade Hotel in Zagreb was the epitome of style and elegance in the city, as well as being the luxury stopover for passengers of the Orient Express.

“Through the Regent brand we fully intend to uphold all of these traditions and values, but in a way that’s relevant now to a modern and forward-thinking city like Zagreb.”

The hotel has 207 individually-designed guest rooms, a grand restaurant, a cocktail bar and French bistro as well as a grand ballroom, conference rooms and business facilities.

Ritter now aims to secure further Regents throughout Europe and the Middle East. Details: www.rezidorsas.com