Sonesta International Hotels Corporation’s upper-upscale hotel portfolio is entering a new era of expansion. The Royal Sonesta is a collective of unique, memorable hotels in some of the world’s most exciting travel destinations, redefining the experience of upscale travel. The coveted brand is officially open for franchising. In addition, Sonesta is relaunching The James Hotel lifestyle brand, with plans to expand its upper-upscale presence further.
When Sonesta announced a new plan to open The Royal Sonesta brand for franchising in the Americas this past November, it was to grow its share of high-end hotels worldwide. With a portfolio spanning 18 hotels and nearly 6,000 rooms and suites across two countries, The Royal Sonesta is well-positioned as a leader in experiential hospitality. Now, the brand is inviting franchisees to bring the brand’s localized individuality to new destinations through franchising opportunities.
“The Royal Sonesta franchising marks a major step not only for the establishment of the brand as one of the leading forces in upper-upscale hospitality but also for Sonesta as a franchisor,” said Brian Quinn, chief development officer. “In 2021, we debuted Sonesta Franchising in the U.S., providing 12 of our world-class brands for franchising and development opportunities. Adding Royal Sonesta to our franchise offerings is allowing us to expand Sonesta’s reach while delivering the segment-defining hotel offerings franchisees are asking for.”
The Royal Sonesta San Juan
The Royal Sonesta hotels are known for their commitment to service excellence and unscripted warmth. Each hotel in the portfolio is a standout in its region, from The Royal Sonesta New Orleans’ location on the city’s world-famous Bourbon Street, to the white sand beaches host of The Royal Sonesta San Juan. Most importantly, the brand effortlessly balances elements of uncompromising guest experience with equal parts irreverence and wit, ensuring guests are always welcomed into the “royal” family.
Sonesta’s commitment to the upper-upscale segment doesn’t stop there. Earlier this year, the company acquired the rights to The James brand and is now beginning to scale The James as a new lifestyle option for franchisees. Properties within The James’ portfolio will be known for drawing on their local surroundings to deliver a sophisticated sense of place at each destination. A beverage forward cocktail program and sneaker shine stations are just a few elements to help the brand stand out among the pack of lifestyle hotels by giving The James hotels ties to the local community and providing bespoke experiences in return.
Plans for The James currently consist of three existing properties (NYC, Washington, DC and Chicago) and expanding to include franchising, under Sonesta the brand will continue to create residentially-inspired, experienced hotels that remain connected to their local community. With the rise in remote work and the need for an escape, travelers are looking to brands like The James to provide the ideal stay for those fluid business and leisure travels that embody the “work-from-anywhere” mentality or a necessary spot to recharge. These properties have the freedom to draw on local inspirations and modern sensibilities to offer the design and service that speaks to these travelers.
As experiential hospitality continues to recover, lifestyle hotels must provide new experiences and offerings to appeal to the next wave of travelers. Sonesta is positioning itself as a continued leader in the lifestyle hotel space thanks to its variety of brands in every segment and growing portfolio of brands.
“Our commitment to growth is positioning us to be a leader in hospitality for 2023 and beyond,” said Keith Pierce, Sonesta’s EVP and president, franchise and development. “Franchising these two brands is a major success story for us, and it’s just the beginning. We are excited to work with franchisees to help create new upper-upscale experiences around the world.”
Offering by Franchise Disclosure Document only. Void where prohibited. This advertisement is not an offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy any franchise. ©Sonesta RL Hotels Franchising Inc. & Sonesta RL Hotels Canada Franchising Inc. 255 Washington St., Suite 230, Newton, MA 02458
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