In 2025, the group signed 40 new hotel contracts and master agreements, marking
its highest annual total to date. A further 25 signings are expected in the
first quarter of 2026, pointing to sustained owner demand and continued
expansion momentum.
With a portfolio exceeding 640 properties globally and its strongest
pipeline to date, Minor Hotels is entering a new phase of growth centred on
targeted asset-light expansion. This phase is supported by the addition of four
new hotel brands and a strengthened global platform under the Minor Hotels
master brand.
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| Dukes The Palm |
Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO of
Minor International, said: “The pace of recent signings
reflects strong owner confidence in our brands and platform. Driving growth
through a higher mix of HMAs and franchising allows us to scale with
discipline, while our continued role as owners keeps us closely aligned to
hotel performance and brand standards. As we add depth to our brand portfolio
in 2026, this combination of global reach and an owner’s mindset gives us the
insight needed to really tailor solutions to different assets and owner
ambitions.”
In 2026, investment and development will be concentrated on markets with
strong long-term demand indicators. Of the 25 expected signings in the first
quarter, more than 60% are located in the Middle East and Asia, supporting a
more balanced regional contribution alongside Europe, which currently
represents more than half of the group’s portfolio.
The group plans multiple brand debuts in North America, including New York
and Miami, as well as selected Caribbean destinations. Luxury portfolio
expansion will also continue in Australia, where Minor Hotels already operates
more than 60 properties, primarily under the Oaks and Avani brands.
Growth in Europe will include an increased focus on resort destinations
across the Mediterranean, complementing the group’s existing city hotel
presence. In the United Kingdom, Minor Hotels will continue to develop its
London footprint, leveraging the operational platform of The Wolseley Hospitality Group.
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| Anantara Kafue River Tented Camp |
In North Africa, expansion is being shaped by the strength of the group’s
brands and its long-standing presence in European source markets. Development
activity includes Egypt, following a joint venture with SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises to deliver 50
properties over the next decade, as well as Morocco.
Pipeline growth in Asia will continue, with Japan a priority market following
a joint venture to develop 21 properties nationwide. India also remains a
focus, supported by the performance of Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur and
a pipeline of more than a dozen projects.
Franchising will play a central role in Minor Hotels’ asset-light growth
model. Following investment in systems, brand standards and owner support,
franchising is expected to accelerate expansion, particularly in Europe, the
United States and Africa. Asset-light opportunities now represent 87% of the
group’s extended pipeline, up from 70% last year.
New brands are set to play a key role in unlocking growth across multiple
segments. The Minor Reserve Collection and Colbert Collection are designed to support
conversion opportunities in mature markets, offering independent owners access
to global distribution, loyalty and operational platforms while retaining brand
individuality.
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| Tivoli Muscat Hotel & Residences. |
The Wolseley Hotels will be
positioned as a limited luxury offering, with a small number of projects
planned to establish presence in key global gateway cities. At the
select-service end, iStay Hotels is expected to support franchise-led growth in
urban and gateway markets.
Branded residences remain a core growth pillar, with approximately 20% of the total pipeline incorporating a residential component. In 2026, Minor Hotels plans to launch its first standalone branded residence project, reinforcing the strategic role of residential-led development.
To support capital optimisation, Minor International is progressing plans
to launch a hotel real estate investment trust in mid-2026. The proposed structure
is expected to include selected European and Asian assets, enabling capital
recycling while maintaining long-term brand and operating relationships.
Through its 2026 strategy, Minor Hotels aims to strengthen resilience,
diversify its portfolio and deliver long-term value by aligning brands, markets
and partnerships within a flexible global hospitality platform