Brussels Sheraton hotel applies for protection from creditors

The Sheraton in central Brussels, the largest hotel in the country, has applied for protection from its creditors, often the last step before declaring bankruptcy. The hotel (pictured) has suffered, a spokesperson said, from the reduction in tourists to the city after last November’s attacks in Paris and the March bombings in Brussels.

The hotel also overlooks Place Rogier, which was the target of a planned terrorist attack in June. That attack was foiled by police, which had broken up the terrorist cell.

According to the owners of the Sheraton, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, the problem lies with the company that operates the hotel. Like the Sheraton at Brussels Airport, the hotel is run by a franchisee, who pays an annual sum for the use of the Sheraton name.

Staff, suppliers and other partners would not be affected while the legal process is taking place, Starwood said.

Photo: Brussels Hotel Association