The luxury resort industry saw steady growth before the COVID-19 pandemic, driven by rising incomes and an expanding global middle class. Key players in this market include major hotel chains like Marriott, Hilton, and Accor, as well as real estate and private equity firms. According to research, the top luxury resort investment company worldwide in 2020 was Marriott International, which owns brands like Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, and W Hotels. Marriott led in number of rooms and properties globally, followed by Hilton, Accor, Hyatt, and Four Seasons.
Marriott leads in global luxury resort properties and rooms
According to data from hospitality magazine Hotels, Marriott International was the top luxury resort investment company worldwide in 2020 with over 140,000 rooms across its Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, W Hotels and Luxury Collection brands. Marriott has invested heavily in expanding its luxury resort portfolio globally. The company’s scale gives it advantages in distribution, sales and marketing to drive occupancy and rates.
Hilton, Accor and Hyatt also major luxury resort investors
Other major global hotel chains with significant luxury resort investments include Hilton Worldwide with its Waldorf Astoria and Conrad brands, Accor with Raffles, Fairmont and Sofitel, and Hyatt with Park Hyatt and Andaz. These companies have properties spread worldwide in leisure destinations and gateway cities. Their business model is to invest in or manage resorts rather than directly own real estate.
Real estate firms and PE funds active luxury resort investors
In addition to hotel chains, real estate developers and private equity firms are major investors in luxury resorts. Companies like Blackstone, Brookfield Asset Management and KSL Capital Partners have invested billions in luxury hospitality globally. They often buy existing properties and reposition them as luxury resorts. Partnering with hotel brands for management allows them to focus on real estate while benefiting from brands’ operational expertise.
Marriott International led luxury resort investment worldwide in 2020 driven by its portfolio of leading brands. However major hospitality, real estate and private equity players are all active investors in the attractive luxury resort industry.