The Ascott Limited has reported a record-breaking year for 2025 after signing 19,000 units across 102 properties. This represents a 27 per cent increase in new signings compared to the previous year. The lodging business unit of CapitaLand Investment expanded its global reach to more than 230 cities across 40 countries. It now manages or is developing over 1,000 properties worldwide with a total of 176,000 units.

Much of this growth came through an asset-light strategy focusing on higher-fee segments like resorts and branded residences. New signings in resort locations reached over 50 properties including sites in Phuket and Bali. The company also pushed into 10 new cities such as Wellington and Taipei. In Taipei, the 185-room Ascott Nangang Taipei will open in 2027 within a major business park housing firms like Intel and HP. In New Zealand, the lyf brand will debut in Wellington with a 108-room property in the city centre.

Mr Kevin Goh, Chief Executive Officer, Ascott, said: “2025 marked a key milestone for Ascott as we accelerated asset-light signings and strengthened revenue visibility. With these new signings, we now have the embedded income to exceed our S$500 million fee target as pipeline projects turn operational. Our flex-hybrid model and multi-typology brand strategy enable us to optimise performance for property owners across market cycles, while disciplined investments in loyalty, technology and business development position us to capture growth in higher-fee segments including resorts, branded residences, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, Exhibitions) and wellness. I thank our global teams and partners for their continued support as we advance our ambition to be the preferred hospitality company.”

Franchise agreements accounted for more than a quarter of the units signed last year. This included significant expansion in China and South Korea. Conversion projects were also a major driver for the firm. More than 38 per cent of signings involved rebranding existing buildings. This allowed for faster openings such as the Citadines Antasari Jakarta which began operations just three weeks after being rebranded.

Ms Serena Lim, Chief Growth Officer, Ascott, said: “As travel evolves into a lifestyle, consumers are seeking greater flexibility and choice in how they live, work and explore. Guided by insights from our owners and guests, we have pursued a deliberate growth strategy anchored in our flex-hybrid model and a differentiated suite of flexible living offerings. We are heartened by the robust growth in 2025, driven by strong owner commitment as reflected in portfolio deals across multiple brands. Approximately 30 per cent of new signings came from existing partners expanding with us, underscoring trust in Ascott’s platform and our ability to meet diverse traveller and resident needs worldwide.”