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Sonesta Completes Acquisition Of Red Lion Hotels

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On March 17, 2021, Sonesta International Hotels Corporation announced its acquisition of RLH Corporation (NYSE: RLH), significantly expanding its portfolio to approximately 1,200 locations and over 100,000 guest rooms worldwide. This acquisition adds more than 900 franchised hotels to Sonesta's diverse brand offerings, enhancing its franchising capabilities. Keith Pierce will join Sonesta as Executive Vice President, focusing on franchise development, while RLH's CEO, John J. Russell, Jr., will aid in the transition until April 30, 2021.

Positive
  • Acquisition adds over 900 franchised locations, enhancing Sonesta's market presence.
  • Sonesta's global footprint expanded to approximately 1,200 hotels and 100,000 rooms.
  • Strategic leadership appointment of Keith Pierce to grow the franchising business.
Negative
  • None.

NEWTON, Mass., March 17, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Sonesta International Hotels Corporation (Sonesta) today announced the completion of its previously announced acquisition of RLH Corporation (NYSE: RLH). As a result, Sonesta is now one of the largest hotel companies globally with approximately 1,200 locations, more than 100,000 guest rooms, and a diversified portfolio of 15 brands across multiple market segments. 

Sonesta also announced that 35-year hotel industry veteran Keith Pierce is joining Sonesta as Executive Vice President, President of Franchise & Development effective March 18, 2021. John J. Russell, Jr., Chief Executive Officer of RLH, will continue to support Sonesta leadership through the transition until April 30, 2021.

Carlos Flores, President and Chief Executive Officer of Sonesta, made the following statement regarding today's announcement:

"The closing of the Red Lion transaction is transformative for Sonesta. It establishes Sonesta as one of the largest hotel companies in the world, and as an owner, manager and franchisor of hotels.  The Red Lion acquisition significantly enhances Sonesta's existing franchising capabilities by adding more than 900 franchised locations to our existing global footprint of branded hotels. 

In addition, we are also excited to welcome Keith Pierce as the newest member of Sonesta's executive leadership team.  I am confident Keith will fulfill his mandate to aggressively grow and mature Sonesta's franchising business.  We look forward to sharing more details of Sonesta's plans for our franchise business in the weeks ahead.

I also wish to thank John Russell for his collaboration and leadership during this transaction."

About Sonesta

Sonesta is one of the fastest-growing hospitality companies in the U.S., celebrating an approximate 350% increase in its managed hotel portfolio and 1,400% increase overall. You will find 1,200 Sonesta hotels across 15 brands operating in the U.S., Canada, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Egypt, Peru, and St. Maarten. For more about Sonesta and its locations, visit Sonesta.com or call 800.Sonesta (800.766.3782). For more information about Red Lion Hotels, visit Rlhco.com.

* High-resolution images are available at www.sonesta.com/media for all Sonesta hotels.

Media Contact: 
Lorie Juliano
ljuliano@sonesta.com; office: 617.421.5429; mobile: 508.843.3769

Cision View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sonesta-completes-acquisition-of-red-lion-hotels-301249571.html

SOURCE Sonesta International Hotels Corporation

FAQ

What is the significance of Sonesta's acquisition of RLH Corporation?

The acquisition positions Sonesta as one of the largest hotel companies globally, expanding its portfolio significantly.

How many hotels does Sonesta have after acquiring RLH?

Sonesta now operates approximately 1,200 hotel locations across various brands.

Who is joining Sonesta's leadership team following the acquisition?

Keith Pierce is joining as Executive Vice President, focusing on franchise development.

When will RLH's CEO assist in the transition period?

John J. Russell, Jr. will support the transition until April 30, 2021.

What impact will the acquisition have on Sonesta's franchising capabilities?

The acquisition significantly enhances Sonesta's franchising capabilities by adding more than 900 franchised locations.

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