Summary:
- Sonesta opened 18 hotels with franchise partner Laxmi Hotels Group.
- Eleven hotels are managed by Laxmi, seven by Ark Hospitality.
- The move advances Sonesta’s asset-right, franchise-forward strategy.
SONESTA INTERNATIONAL HOTELS Corp. opened 18 hotels with new franchise partner Laxmi Hotels Group, marking the first milestone in the sale of 113 managed properties. The portfolio includes 11 hotels managed by Laxmi and seven by Ark Hospitality.
The transition was completed by the end of September and all hotels now operate under the Sonesta Select brand, the company said in a statement. The move advances Sonesta’s asset-right, franchise-forward strategy.
“We are thrilled to expand the Laxmi Hotels Group portfolio within the Sonesta franchise family,” said Keith Pierce, Sonesta’s executive vice president, franchise and development. “Converting all 18 hotels within the month is a great example of our team’s ability to facilitate a smooth, rapid transition for our new owners. We are confident that Laxmi’s operational expertise, combined with the strength of the Sonesta brand, will lead to great success.”
Sonesta announced the sale of 113 managed hotels in 2024. The properties are under agreement with four strategic partners that will enter long-term franchise agreements with Sonesta. The portfolio includes 30 Sonesta Select hotels, 44 Sonesta ES Suites and 39 Sonesta Simply Suites, adding 14,803 rooms across 28 states to Sonesta’s franchised portfolio, which totaled 62,444 rooms and 886 properties at the end of September.
“Laxmi is excited to franchise more hotels within the Sonesta portfolio and deepen our relationship with the brand,” said Kunal Dave, Laxmi’s CEO. “As owners and operators, Sonesta has a unique perspective into the brand-franchisee relationship and understands what it takes to build a successful hotel from both the asset and operational standpoint. We look forward to continuing our long and successful relationship.”
The 18 Sonesta Select Hotels are located in Florida, Georgia, New Jersey, Tennessee, Indiana, Kansas, Massachusetts, North Carolina, South Carolina and Pennsylvania.
Phil Hugh is assuming the role of chief development officer at Sonesta, succeeding Brian Quinn and focusing on expanding Sonesta’s brand portfolio across the Americas.
