Hilton has announced the signing of the Waldorf Astoria Scarlet Bay in the Peloponnese, marking the iconic luxury brand’s first venture in Greece. The development signals a significant milestone in Hilton’s rapid expansion across Greece, a world-class destination where the company now manages over 60 hotels trading and in the pipeline.
Marriott International, Inc. has announced an agreement with Pacifica Hotels G.K. to introduce its midscale brand, City Express by Marriott, to Japan. The deal involves converting two existing hotels in Osaka, which are scheduled to reopen in 2026. The two properties will be named City Express by Marriott Osaka Namba South and City Express by Marriott Osaka Shin-Imamiya. The collaboration with Pacifica Hotels and AB Capital aims to capitalise on rising hotel rates and strong demand for quality, value-driven accommodation in Osaka. The properties are strategically located near major transit hubs for seamless travel across the Kansai region.
Peregrine Hospitality has named Kristen Richter as its new Chief Commercial Officer, succeeding Kristie Goshow. Richter joins the company from Accor, where she was CCO for the Fairmont and Raffles brands, overseeing all commercial strategy elements, including sales, revenue, and distribution. Richter will now be responsible for Peregrine’s commercial strategy, revenue management, sales, and marketing across its portfolio. CEO Greg Kennealey praised Richter as an "exceptional commercial strategist" whose leadership will be crucial for optimising the company's revenue strategies. Richter sees the opportunity to refine how commercial strategy informs every business decision to drive sustained revenue growth.
IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed a management agreement with Lumbini Heritage Limited to develop Crowne Plaza Lumbini, scheduled to open in 2026. The 147-key hotel will strengthen IHG’s premium presence in Nepal, catering to spiritual and MICE travellers. Located near Lumbini’s pilgrimage site and Gautam Buddha Airport, the hotel aims to set a benchmark for world-class hospitality.
Cross Hotels & Resorts is set to be acquired by Sono International Co. Ltd., a leading South Korean hospitality group. The move combines Cross’s lifestyle and luxury hotel expertise with Sono’s regional knowledge and operational strengths. With 28 properties across Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Japan, the partnership positions the brand for further expansion across Asia.
Meliá Hotels International has announced its debut in Bahrain, launching a luxury hotel and branded residences on Amwaj Island. Opening in 2027, the property will feature 256 units, including 150 hotel rooms and 106 branded residences. The development reflects Meliá’s growing Middle East footprint and commitment to hybrid hospitality-residential models, catering to the region’s demand for premium lifestyle and experiential travel.
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