Even before “the deal” closes, which should vault the new Marriott International even further ahead of its giant competitors, the redefined Bethesda, Maryland-based company has for the first time topped the HOTELS 300, growing its portfolio just enough to surpass Hilton Worldwide by the slimmest of margins.
For a complete list of this year’s 325, click here.
With further consolidation expected, it remains to be seen how the Giants shake out next year. What if Jin Jiang gobbles up AccorHotels after taking over Plateno Hotels Group in 2015 and jumping to No. 5 from No. 9 in the ranking? How far will HNA Hospitality Group climb, assuming it completes its deal for Carlson Rezidor? Might it take a bigger stake in NH Hotel Group and combine its holdings into another powerful giant? Will IHG or Hilton make bold moves, as some have theorized?
While it is all conjecture today, the prevailing sentiment suggests bigger is better, so there is little doubt that more disruption is coming to the hotel business and to HOTELS’ annual ranking. For now, enjoy the 325, based on data as of December 31, 2015, and make your own predictions about how this list might look differently next year.