Minor Hotels Outlines 2026 Growth Strategy with Focus on Asset-Light Expansion
Minor Hotels will take a more focused approach to growth in 2026, building on strong development activity in 2025 with an emphasis on expanding in priority markets, diversifying its portfolio and increasing capital efficiency.
The group signed 40 new hotel contracts and master agreements in 2025 and expects to secure a further 25 signings in the first quarter of 2026. With a pipeline of more than 640 properties globally, the company is entering the next phase of growth through targeted asset-light expansion, supported by four new hotel brands and a strengthened global platform under the Minor Hotels master brand.
“The pace of recent signings reflects strong owner confidence in our brands and platform,” said Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO of Minor International, the parent company of Minor Hotels.
“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 tailor solutions to different assets and owner ambitions.”
Expanding in Priority Markets
Minor Hotels will concentrate development in markets where it sees long-term demand, strengthening its presence in established regions while entering select new destinations.
Of the 25 deals expected in Q1 2026, more than 60% are projected to come from the Middle East and Asia. This supports the company’s aim to increase the contribution of these regions and balance its portfolio, as Europe currently accounts for more than half of its properties.
In North America, Minor Hotels plans to introduce multiple brands across key markets, including New York and Miami, as well as selected Caribbean destinations. The group is also extending its luxury portfolio into Australia, where it already operates more than 60 properties, primarily under the Oaks and Avani brands.
The company will continue to grow in London, supported by the brand awareness and operating platform of The Wolseley Hospitality Group, acquired in 2022.
In North Africa, Minor Hotels is pursuing growth aligned with demand patterns, supported by its presence in Europe, a key source market for the region. Expansion efforts include Egypt, where it recently formed a joint venture with SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises to develop 50 properties over the next decade, as well as Morocco.
Across Asia, the pipeline is expected to expand further, with Japan a key focus following a joint venture with Royal Holdings to develop 21 properties. India remains a priority market, supported by the performance of Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur and a pipeline of more than a dozen projects.
In Europe, Minor Hotels plans to broaden its regional mix by increasing its focus on resort destinations across the Mediterranean, alongside its existing city-hotel presence.
Franchising to Support Asset-Light Growth
Franchising will play a larger role in Minor Hotels’ 2026 growth strategy, following investment to strengthen systems, brand standards and owner support capabilities.
This supports the group’s asset-right approach, which aims to maintain a balanced mix of owned, managed and franchised properties while improving capital efficiency. Of the company’s extended pipeline opportunities, 87% are asset-light, up from 70% last year.
Franchise-led expansion will focus on mature markets such as Europe and the US, where brands including NH Hotels & Resorts and iStay Hotels are positioned for conversion opportunities. Franchising will also support growth in Africa, where owners continue to seek distribution, loyalty and brand infrastructure.
New Brands to Support Portfolio Diversification
Minor Hotels will introduce its newest brands in 2026 through selected openings and signings across multiple segments.
The group’s new collection brands — Minor Reserve Collection and Colbert Collection — are designed to support conversion-led growth in established markets, particularly Europe and the Middle East. These brands allow independent owners to retain their identity while gaining access to Minor Hotels’ global distribution, loyalty, marketing and operational platforms.
The Wolseley Hotels will be positioned within the luxury segment, with 2026 focused on establishing the brand through a limited number of projects in key global gateway cities.
In the Select segment, iStay Hotels is expected to support franchise-led growth in urban and gateway markets where demand for value-focused accommodation continues to expand.
Branded Residences Remain a Growth Driver
Branded residences continue to form a key part of Minor Hotels’ development strategy, as the segment expands beyond traditional luxury positioning.
Around 20% of the group’s total hotel pipeline includes a residential component. In 2026, Minor Hotels is set to launch its first standalone branded residence project, highlighting the role of residential-led development in its wider portfolio.
Upcoming projects are expected to be anchored by luxury brands such as Anantara and Tivoli, where 50% of the pipeline includes residences. Avani and NH Collection are also targeting premium buyers seeking lifestyle-led offerings. Recent announcements include mixed-use developments in the UAE, Spain and India.
Planned REIT Listing to Support Capital Optimization
Minor International is progressing plans to launch a hotel real estate investment trust (REIT), which is expected to list in mid-2026.
The proposed REIT is expected to include a selection of European and Asian hotel assets, allowing Minor to recycle capital from mature properties while maintaining long-term brand and operating relationships.
This structure is intended to support the group’s shift toward an asset-right model and provide flexibility to invest in new markets and brand development.
Positioning for Sustainable Growth
Minor Hotels’ 2026 strategy reflects a focus on strengthening market presence, expanding its brand portfolio and improving capital efficiency. Through targeted growth markets, increased franchising and continued investment in branded residences, the group aims to build a diversified hospitality platform positioned for long-term performance.
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