Starting December 1, 2025, the Comfort Hotel Victoria in downtown Florø will be reborn under a new name: Scandic Victoria Florø. This move marks Scandic Hotels Group’s debut in Norway’s most westerly city—and adds another key location to its growing Nordic franchise portfolio.
Located in the heart of Florø, a town known for its dramatic coastal beauty and strong local economy, the hotel is poised to become a central hub for both leisure and business travelers. With 97 newly upgraded rooms and event facilities for up to 150 guests, Scandic Victoria Florø will continue to be operated by the Helle family, who have signed a long-term franchise agreement with Scandic.
“We’re thrilled to welcome the Helle family and the historic Victoria Hotel into the Scandic family,” said Søren Nystrøm, Director of Franchise at Scandic Hotels Group. “Their commitment to quality and local identity perfectly aligns with our brand values.”
A Strategic Move in a Long-Term Growth Plan
The new Florø location becomes Scandic’s 19th franchise hotel in the Nordic region and plays a strategic role in the company’s ambitious 2030 growth plan, which includes opening 40 to 50 new hotels and adding 10,000 rooms—about 70% of which will be in the Nordics.
“Franchise partnerships allow us to expand efficiently into promising destinations,” said Jens Mathiesen, President & CEO of Scandic Hotels Group. “Our aim is to build the strongest franchise program in the Nordic countries, grounded in local expertise and a shared passion for exceptional guest experiences.”
Local Roots Meet Global Reach
The Victoria Hotel has stood as a landmark in Florø for more than a century. For the Helle family, the partnership with Scandic is both a step forward and a tribute to the hotel’s heritage.
“We are proud of the hotel’s history and its place in the community,” said Ole Johan Helle. “Joining the Scandic brand gives us new energy and tools to develop further—without losing the soul and hospitality our guests have always known.”
As demand grows for authentic travel experiences in unique destinations, Florø—with its blend of fjords, fishing culture, and forward-looking business scene—looks set to benefit from a rising profile. For Scandic, it’s not just about more rooms; it’s about placing roots in the right places.
