In my role as Business Development Manager for l’Hôtel Château Laurier Québec, I’m asked to go on sales trips and to promotional events alongside representatives of the Québec City region’s tourism sector. We work as a regional team with the mission of attracting organizations and companies to conduct their conferences and business meetings in Québec City, as opposed to other locations. But, more often than not, I’m demonstrating to potential clients the advantages of hosting their business activities in our establishment rather than in the other hotels and convention centres in the area. In both cases, the competition is fierce. I have to admit, though, that l’Hôtel Château Laurier Québec offers some undeniable little extras for the organizations I approach.
Proud to Promote the French Language
In the early 2000s, our President Alain Girard, during the course of his reflections and discussions with people from the tourism industry, came to a clear conclusion. In order to distinguish itself, Québec City doesn’t need to reinvent itself or even invent itself. It needs to focus on the characteristics that already make it so unique – the French language, and being the birthplace of Francophone culture in North America. So, for over a decade now, we proudly promote ourselves as a Francoresponsible establishment.
During my interactions with our clients, I’m always mindful that our decision to be open and public about our Francoresponsibility is actually something that adds value for them, and encourages loyalty. The clients know that by visiting us and deciding to do their events here, it’s much more than just a sales pitch: it is a true exchange, springing from a series of decisions and actions that demonstrate a profound attachment to our Francophone culture. For us, the French language is fully alive and vibrant, whether it be on our walls, in the sonic environment of the hotel, in our correspondence, just as in our partnerships and voluntary engagements.
As Mr. Girard likes to say, French is a language of the heart – a language of emotions. And what better than to offer true emotion when it comes time to fully attract a client?
And to get close to our language and community, we believe it takes a sense of discovery. As an independent hotel, we take the promotion of local business to heart. That’s what moved hotel management to establish a partnership with a group of independent booksellers. Encouraging our customers to visit and shop in these bookstores is perfectly in line with our sustainable development policy. And what’s more, by doing so we forge close links with business owners who, like us, have a deep commitment to the French language. Our partnership with bookstores is a tangible way our commitment to Francoresponsibility constitutes a little extra, totally in line with this city which we love so much.
A Treasure Chest for Our Clients
We’re committed to providing a quality experience to all of our customers. To fully live up to that promise, we cannot restrict it to our establishment. It’s natural that we should invite them to explore Québec City, Old Québec and central districts such as Parliament Hill, Faubourg Saint-Jean-Baptiste, Saint-Roch and its iconic rue Saint‑Joseph. Yet, what could be better than offering a legitimate network of restaurants, shops, museums, interpretation centres and activities to enjoy, with discounts? It’s just another little extra we offer to our customers, thanks to our Treasure chest. This initiative demonstrates our dedication to our community, and the importance of providing a comprehensive and enriched experience for our visitors. Our Treasure chest is a true key to opening up new experiences and offering discounts in restaurants, shops and museums.
Meeting in an Exceptional Environment
We can already host meetings, conventions and business events in function rooms of various sizes, providing access to cutting-edge technology to make any event a long‑awaited success. What’s more, our Jardin des Quatre-Saisons allows outdoor events such as barbecues, weddings and cocktails to be held in the exterior courtyard of l’Hôtel Château Laurier Québec.
But we must still be able to adequately and quickly respond to the needs of our most demanding customers. This is where our coordination team comes in. Sure, there are other establishments with similar offerings. But we’ve also got, just steps from the hotel, the multifunctional spaces of the Voltigeurs de Québec Armoury – a meeting place that’s both legendary and exceptional.
Since the sad evening when this heritage building was engulfed in flames, the entire tourism community of Québec City has dreamed of its rebirth. It’s now a reality that’s beyond all expectations. Not only is the building magnificent and unique, but without a doubt, the Armoury is amongst the most beautiful multifunctional rooms around in terms of architecture, state-of-the-art facilities and technical potential. This space and its rooms are impressive, but the data speaks for itself. Events held at the Voltigeurs de Québec Armoury attract, on average, 25% more participants than the number expected by the organizers. One event even saw the number of its participants double. I’d venture to say that the Armoury is a decided advantage for event organizers.
Le George V, an Exceptional Caterer
Whether for an event at the Armoury, the hotel or even in an external site, we rely on a catering offer of international calibre. Le George V Banquet and Catering Services has won numerous awards and distinctions, and has been an official caterer to major events like the 2010 Olympic Games in Vancouver, the Festival d’été de Québec, and les Grands Feux Loto-Québec, to name but a few. We rely on the creativity of Executive Chef Heinrich Meesen and his dedicated team. They allow us to offer catering services that truly stand out. Their expertise is reflected in both the presentation of the dishes, and in the local ingredients they use.
As far back as we can remember, the products of Quebec artisans have been a source of inspiration in the kitchens of George V and Chef Heinrich Meesen. The relationship of trust that has been established with exceptional producers in the Québec City region is the basis of the success, and authenticity of its cuisine. When we ask our clients what stood out at an event, we almost invariably hear about the quality of the food. Our catering service is a definite advantage, allowing us to stand out from the competition.
I have more than 20 years of experience working in major hotels in Québec City. Throughout these years, I have promoted the benefits of holding events at the various establishments I have worked for. But I can say without hesitation that l’Hôtel Château Laurier Québec is able to offer the little extras that really make the difference.