By Pierre Perreault
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Located in Complexe Jacques-Gagnon, constructed in the late 1970s and substantially upgraded in recent years, Hôtel Universel d’Alma is a multipurpose property unique in the region. In addition to the hotel, the building contains several shops, a 16-room convention centre able to host as many as 500 people, a cinema and two restaurants.
This 211,000-square-foot business complex in the heart of downtown also leases office space. In October 2025, the hotel introduced a new brand identity reflecting the property’s evolution and modernization. It forms part of a broader programme of transformation and repositioning intended to give business and leisure guests a renewed experience that meets their expectations in comfortable, refined surroundings.
In an interview, Maxime Robitaille, general manager of both the complex and the hotel, explains that a team of about 12 people supports his administrative and management role. He has held the position since 2019 and says that hotel guests and users of the complex’s many other services are a central priority for both him and the owners.
General Manager Maxime Robitaille
‘This role requires availability 24 hours a day, seven days a week, because a situation can arise at any time and demand a rapid response,’ says Robitaille, an Alma native with about 12 years of business-management experience, including a period at SDC d’Alma. As general manager, however, hotel accommodation remains his primary focus.
The property has 100 rooms designed for maximum comfort. A new 27-room section added in 2025 introduces a distinctive contemporary style inspired by current hotel trends and intended to evoke calm and relaxation. A total of $3.5 million has been invested over the past two years.
The quality of the welcome and the hotel facilities are priorities for Robitaille. Human-resources management is another major concern: the complex employs as many as 130 people. Meetings, conventions, banquets and other events also account for a substantial share of year-round activity and require efficient organization to meet clients’ needs.
In addition to Pacini restaurant and Bar l’Apéro, which are owned by the hotel’s shareholders, the complex provides catering for conventions and banquets.
The hotel welcomes a substantial business clientele, participants in sports tournaments and their families, many leisure travellers in summer, and large numbers of snowmobilers in winter. Snowmobile guests benefit from direct access by a local trail, secure storage compounds and packages that include Centre de santé Elixir et Spa. Véloroute des Bleuets also draws many cycling enthusiasts to the property.
Travelodge Alma, which belongs to the same owners, is located in the heart of downtown Alma and provides an ideal location for getting around. Its 30 very spacious rooms have been completely renovated and offer a high level of comfort.
Hôtel Universel Alma
hoteluniversel.com
1000, boulevard des Cascades
Alma (Québec) G8B 3G4
(418) 668-5261