NEWTON, MA – Sonesta International Hotels Corporation (Sonesta) today announced the opening of 18 hotels with new franchise partner Laxmi Hotels Group, the first major milestone in the planned sale of 113 managed properties. The successful transition of these Sonesta Select Hotels marks a significant step in Sonesta’s asset-right franchise-forward strategy.
The portfolio of 18 properties includes 11 hotels that will be managed by Laxmi directly and 7 to be managed by Ark Hospitality. The transition of these properties was completed by the end of September, highlighting the speed and efficiency of Sonesta’s conversion process. All properties will operate under the Sonesta Select brand, known for its commitment to guest comfort and modern amenities.
We are thrilled to expand the Laxmi Hotels Group portfolio within the Sonesta franchise family. 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. Keith Pierce, Sonesta’s Executive Vice President and President of Franchise & Development
In 2024, Sonesta announced the sale of 113 managed hotels. The properties are under agreement to four strategic partners, who will enter into new, long-term franchise agreements with Sonesta. The portfolio includes 30 Sonesta Select upscale hotels, 44 Sonesta ES Suites upscale extended stay hotels, and 39 Sonesta Simply Suites mid-priced extended stay hotels. This conversion in total will add up to another 14,803 rooms across 28 states to Sonesta’s existing franchised hotel portfolio, which at the end of September totaled 62,444 rooms and 886 properties.
Laxmi is excited to franchise more hotels within the Sonesta portfolio and deepen our relationship with the brand. 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. Kunal Dave, CEO of Laxmi Hotels Group
The 18 Sonesta Select Hotels include locations in Florida, Georgia, New Jersey, Tennessee, Indiana, Kansas, Massachusetts, North Carolina, South Carolina and Pennsylvania. Guests at these properties will continue to earn or redeem points as members of the award-winning Sonesta Travel Pass loyalty program.
About Sonesta International Hotels
Sonesta is the 8th largest hotel company in the U.S. according to Smith Travel Research (STR) with approximately 1,100 properties totaling 100,000 guest rooms across 13 brands in nine countries. Sonesta owns, manages and/or franchises under The Royal Sonesta; The James, Classico Collection by Sonesta, Sonesta Hotels, Resorts & Cruises; MOD Collection by Sonesta, Sonesta Select; Sonesta Essential, Sonesta ES Suites, Sonesta Simply Suites, Red Lion Hotels, Inns & Suites by Sonesta; Signature Inn by Sonesta; Americas Best Value Inn by Sonesta and Canadas Best Value Inn by Sonesta. Redefining hospitality through its award-winning Sonesta Travel Pass loyalty program, Sonesta offers guests the opportunity to earn and redeem points for unparalleled value and personalized experiences. Sonesta Travel Pass members receive the best rates, earn immediate points towards free nights, and accelerated status progression based on stays. For more information about Sonesta, visit Sonesta.com or call 1.800.Sonesta. For information about how to join Sonesta’s portfolio visit Franchise.Sonesta.com, email [email protected] or call 1.617.658.1596.
Lorie Juliano
Sonesta International Hotels Corporation
+1 617 421 5429
Sonesta
