Worldwide: Along with six other founding members, Pebblebrook Hotel Trust has launched a collection of soft brands and independent lifestyle hotels called Curator Hotel & Resort Collection.
Curator’s seven founding members include Pebblebrook Hotel Trust, which owns a majority stake in the business, as well as Benchmark Global Hospitality, Davidson Hotels & Resorts, Noble House Hotels & Resorts, Provenance Hotels, Springboard Hospitality, and Viceroy Hotels & Resorts.
The collection has debuted with more than 120 independent hotels and resorts throughout the US.
Jon Bortz, founder and chairman of Curator and CEO of Pebblebrook, said: “Curator is an owner-centric model, created by ownership groups and independent hotel managers and structured for the benefit of owners. Members will pay much less in fees to join, they’re not locked in with long-term contracts and they don’t have to conform to strict rating systems or brand standards, allowing them to retain their individuality.”
“We are seeing a rapidly-growing segment of sophisticated travellers who value independence and creativity in their hotels,” he continued. “These travellers are searching for more individualised and unique experiences. Curator bridges the gap and connects these guests with independent hotels and resorts across the United States that provide just that.”
Members benefit from business intelligence reporting, insights and proprietary tools, and technology solutions. Quality assurance will be driven by customer ratings rather than mandated standards, and Curator will take care of vendor negotiations on behalf of its members.
“Benchmark Global Hospitality is honoured to be a visionary owner with Pebblebrook and a part of this prestigious group of respected operators launching this innovative, owner-centric collection,” Alex Cabañas, CEO of Benchmark Global Hospitality, said. “Without question, as the independent and lifestyle segments of our industry grow in response to consumer demand, Curator fills a need for those owners seeking a competitive advantage without sacrificing their independent edge.”
Curator Hotel & Resort Collection is set to expand to 200 or more hotels within the next 12 months, and at least 100 per year thereafter. A target of 400 to 500 properties is cited as a near-term target.
