Hotel Equities (HE) has been selected to operate Postcard Cabins, the outdoor hospitality brand, which was acquired by Marriott International earlier this month.
HE will manage Postcard Cabin’s collection of outdoor accommodations in the U.S., helping Marriott expand its presence in the growing outdoor hospitality market. This partnership allows HE to leverage its experience to support Marriott’s vision of offering guests immersive, nature-driven experiences and meeting the increasing demand for outdoor-focused accommodations.
“Postcard Cabins’ vision for providing a retreat from the modern world is incredibly well-timed and well-executed. We’re excited to leverage our operational strengths to enhance guest experiences while helping expand Postcard Cabins’ portfolio nationwide,” said Al Smith, HE’s president of hotel operations.
Formerly known as Getaway Outposts, each Postcard Cabins unit consists of groups of tiny cabins located within two hours’ drive of major metropolitan areas. The pet-friendly cabins feature modern design, private bathrooms, full kitchens and expansive space between the units to ensure privacy and relaxation.
At present, Postcard Cabins’ portfolio includes 29 properties, with more than 1,200 cabins in the U.S. These will operate under long-term agreements with Marriott and join Marriott’s planned outdoor-focused collection. The cabins are expected to be integrated into Marriott Bonvoy’s system, including Marriott.com and the Marriott Bonvoy mobile app, in 2025.
Besides Postcard Cabins, Marriott’s outdoor collection will also include properties under Trailborn, which is focused on bringing on bespoke hotels built for adventure to the great American outdoors. Marriott entered into a long-term agreement to add Trailborn’s portfolio, which comprises 559 rooms in five outdoor destinations and several projects in development.
“What started a decade ago with a small group of believers in the power of spending free time in nature has grown into a national movement, which we expect will only gather steam with Marriott’s expansive reach,” said Jon Staff, founder and CEO of Postcard Cabins.
The integration of Postcard Cabins into Marriott’s systems and selecting HE as the operator will ensure the brand reaches a wider, global audience, Staff added.
By combining Postcard Cabins’ knowledge in delivering nature-centric experiences with HE’s operational experience will help the partners deliver enhanced guest satisfaction, growth and expansion, HE said in a release. The partnership marks a pivotal moment for the hotel management firm as it steps into the outdoor hospitality segment.
Outdoor hospitality has been experiencing a surge in popularity following the pandemic, with travelers exploring nature-focused escapes, fueled by wellness trends, sustainable travel and a desire to unplug. Outdoor hospitality presents “tremendous growth opportunities” and Postcard Cabins offers exactly what travelers are seeking now, said Joe Reardon, HE’s chief development officer.
