The US business Sonesta International Hotels Corporation added 74 properties to its franchise portfolio in 2022.
The 8th largest hospitality company* in the US began in 1937 but only started franchising in late 2021. It has about 100,000 guest rooms across 1200 hotels through eight countries.
Keith Pierce is Sonesta’s executive vice president, and the president of franchise & development. He said Sonesta’s franchise growth was driven by a number of factors such as “Our expanded capabilities, our development of a rapid and seamless process to transition hotels to the Sonesta portfolio and our ability to forge strong relationships with franchisees”.
Sonesta leadership expects growth to continue this year, boosted with a new awareness advertising campaign “Famous Yet Nameless“.
Sonesta franchise growth
The hotel business has added The James, The Royal Sonesta and Sonesta Essential brands as development growth verticals.
Brian Quinn, Sonesta’s chief development officer, said “As a growing hospitality company, Sonesta has an in-depth understanding of markets across the country, which we can leverage to promote the success of our franchisees.
“As a hotel owner and operator, Sonesta has the unique advantage of a hands on understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with hotel operations. This real-time perspective strongly informs our supportive and comprehensive approach to franchise relationships that helps our owners thrive.”
Sonesta Franchising features 17 brands which operate across premium luxury, lifestyle, premium, mid-market, extended-stay and economy segments.
There are a number of Sonesta branded chains in the portfolio. It also includes Red Lion Hotels, Signature Inn, GuestHouse Extended Stay, Americas Best Value Inn and Canadas Best Value Inn.
*[according to Smith Travel Research]
