Hilton to invest $50 million in its Africa growth initiative

Hilton has committed a total of $50 million over the next five years towards its Africa growth initiative to support the continued expansion of its sub-Saharan African portfolio. These funds are intended to support the conversion of around 100 hotels (roughly 20,000 rooms) in multiple African markets into Hilton branded properties- Hilton Hotels & Resorts, DoubleTree by Hilton, and Curio Collection by Hilton. The hotels will receive all the benefits associated with Hilton’s industry-leading brand proposition and world-class commercial platforms. Guests will also be able to take advantage of Hilton’s innovative technology platforms such as online check-in and the ability to choose individual rooms when booking via the Hilton Honors application.

Patrick Fitzgibbon, Senior Vice President – Development (Europe, Middle East and Africa), Hilton, says, “Hilton remains committed to growth in Africa, having been present on the continent for more than 50 years. The model of converting existing hotels into Hilton branded properties has proved highly successful in a variety of markets and we expect to see great opportunities to convert hotels to Hilton brands through this initiative. It enables us to rapidly grow our portfolio and deliver returns for owners by increasing exposure of their business to more international, inter-regional and domestic travellers, and specifically to our 65 million-plus Hilton Honors members who look to stay with us in our suite of industry-leading brands. We see huge potential here in key cities and airports, as well as allowing us to develop our offering in resorts and safari lodges.”