- Record 40 signings in 2025 lead to 25 expected in Q1 2026.
- Focus on markets including Middle East, Asia, North America, Europe.
- Franchising central to asset-light growth, 87pc pipeline.
- Four new brands to launch for diversified segments.
- Branded residences and REIT listing to fuel expansion.
Minor Hotels has confirmed a focused growth strategy for 2026, following a record year of 40 hotel signings in 2025. The group anticipates 25 additional deals in the first quarter, emphasising market depth and portfolio diversification. This phase includes asset-light expansion through franchising and new brands.
Expansion targets priority markets such as the Middle East, Asia, North America, and Europe. Debuts are planned in New York, Miami, the Caribbean, and Australia, alongside growth in London, North Africa, Japan, and India. The strategy balances regional contributions, with over 60pc of new deals in the Middle East and Asia.
Franchising will drive efficiency, with 87pc of pipeline opportunities asset-light. New brands like Minor Reserve Collection, Colbert Collection, The Wolseley Hotels, and iStay Hotels support conversions. Branded residences form a key pillar, with 20pc of the pipeline including residential components, and a REIT listing is set for mid-2026 to optimise capital.
Dillip Rajakarier shared “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.”
