Interview with Thomas Esnée, Director of Development at YOU Famille Hôtelière — Legacy Forum
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At the Legacy Forum 2025, organized by Hubfinance, we had the privilege of speaking with Thomas Esnée, Director of Development at YOU Famille Hôtelière. As a third-generation member of this family-owned business with 45 years of expertise, he shares his vision of the hospitality industry, his development ambitions, and the importance of family heritage in the modern era.
The Hotel Industry as a Way of Life
Thomas Esnée reveals the surprising philosophy that drives the group: for him, the hospitality industry is deeply connected to the arts, evident in the architecture, lighting, and interior design of their properties, ranging from 2- to 5-star hotels. Rooted in Normandy but resolutely focused on the international market, the group—which is developing its own brand, YOU Hotels—announces expansion plans in Europe, particularly following the successful opening in Budapest. This heritage is also passed down through a passion for wine: a family “ritual” embodied in their winemaking business (Château Garreau), and shared across all their hotels to offer a unique guest experience.
A new generation, between tradition
and transformation
Belonging to a lineage also means knowing how to reinvent it. By taking up the torch, Thomas Esnée embodies a generation resolutely focused on innovation and performance.
His ambition: to fully integrate new technological tools, anticipate changes in the hotel distribution sector, and strengthen the group’s growth strategy.
Supported by a Strategic Committee and industry experts, he ensures the consistency of the family model while equipping YOU Famille Hôtelière with the resources needed to continue its development in France and internationally.
About YOU Famille Hôtelière
YOU Famille Hôtelière is a French family-owned group specializing in the hotel industry. They are active in the construction and operation of hotels across various segments, ranging from economy to luxury, by partnering with international brands (Accor Group, Marriott) or by developing their own brand, YOU Hotels. The group manages the entire lifecycle of hotel projects.
Read the full interview to understand how the passing down of a family legacy, strategic innovation, and a passion for the art of living have shaped the success and international growth of YOU Famille Hôtelière across generations.
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