Mercan Group has announced its first hotel project in Panama with the signing of Pullman Panama City.

Developed with Accor under its Pullman Hotels & Resorts brand, the project is scheduled to open in 2028.

It involves converting an existing hotel in Bella Vista, Panama City, into a mixed-use property comprising 180 hotel rooms and 126 executive suites.

Accor Americas chief development officer Abel Castro said: "The signing of Pullman Panama City represents an important step in the expansion of Accor's portfolio in Latin America.

“Thanks to its strategic location, the hotel meets the needs of both business and leisure travelers in one of the region's most important urban destinations.

“We are confident that Pullman brings the right combination of a strong international brand, a contemporary hospitality offering, and robust commercial capabilities to maximise the potential of this project."

Planned facilities at the hotel will include restaurants, bars, a rooftop terrace with a swimming pool, fitness centre and spa.

The hotel will also offer co-working areas, meeting rooms, and entertainment spaces.

Mallol Arquitectos will oversee the architectural reinterpretation of the property while Mercan Group will carry out the rehabilitation work.

Mercan Group founder, president and CEO Jerry Morgan said: “Pullman Panama City represents much more than our first hotel project in Panama.

“It is an opportunity to bring our international experience to a country where we see strong connectivity, stability, the ability to attract investment, and a clear global outlook."

Panama's Minister of Tourism Gloria De León said: “The arrival of this project in Panama is a clear sign of confidence in our country and in the potential of our tourism industry.

“Every new investment that strengthens our tourism offering creates opportunities that extend far beyond a hotel, benefiting transportation providers, producers, restaurants, professionals, and entrepreneurs.”