Hotels & Accommodations
Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide Could Acquire Ace Hotel Brand Following Sortis Holdings Failed Bid- Everything You Need to Know Now

Friday, July 25, 2025
The Tokyo-based Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide, a major hospitality company, is in advanced talks to buy the Ace Hotel brand, according to people familiar with the matter. The deal could result in Ace Hotel being managed by Seibu Prince; moving into a new phase in the brand’s history. It follows an earlier bid by Sortis Holdings to buy the Ace Hotel brand.
Background on Seibu Prince Hotels
Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide is a prominent hospitality operator across Asia. The company is known for its diverse portfolio of hotel brands, including Park Regis by Prince, Prince Smart Inn, and Prince Akatoki. Seibu Prince’s acquisition of Ace Hotel would significantly expand its global reach, particularly in Western markets where Ace Hotel has a strong presence.
Seibu Prince is also recognized for operating the luxury Prince Akatoki brand, which opened its first London location in 2019 after a significant refurbishment. By acquiring Ace Hotel, Seibu Prince would be able to further diversify its offerings and tap into the established reputation of Ace in major cities worldwide.
Seibu Prince is also known for its upmarket Prince Akatoki brand, which opened its first hotel in London 2019 after extensive renovations. Through the purchase of Ace Hotel, Seibu Prince could diversify its business operations even more and take advantage of Ace’s global brand recognition in major cities around the world.
Ace Hotels Legacy and Challenges
Ace Hotel The first Ace Hotel opened in Seattle in 1999, gaining notoriety for it’s modern design and creative energy. The brand has grown to other important markets including New York, Los Angeles, London and beyond, feeding a loyal base of working travelers and locals. Savvy in its approach to hospitality as ever, Ace Hotel of course became the byword for stylish lodgings mixed with cool social options.
But Ace Hotel has had a rough stretch in recent years. The hospitality industry has been hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic and Ace Hotel was no exception. The brand closed its London outpost in 2020, attributing the move to the financial pressures of the pandemic. The Los Angeles outlet, likewise, closed in January 2024 after a decade in business.
But despite the setbacks, Ace Hotel still has properties open in cities including Seattle, Palm Springs, New York and Brooklyn in the US and international outposts in Kyoto, Sydney, Toronto and Athens.
Sortis Holdings Efforts to Buy Ace Hotel
In early 2023, the boutique hotel operator Sortis Holdings, which is a private equity firm, was set to buy the Ace in an all-cash transaction. But the agreement fell through, and the brand was left clinging to the brink. It is understood the dudded proposal from Sortis Holdings has paved the way for Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide to step forward as the leading contender going forward.
The withdrawal of the Sortis Holdings deal is a blow to Ace Hotel, which has faced financial troubles in the past few years. But the fact that Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide is in talks to buy the company does leave some room for hope for Ace Hotel — which would have new resources and opportunities for growth under new ownership.
Potential Value of The Acquisition of Seibu Prince
If the Seibu Prince and Ace Hotel deal goes through, there are a number of potential upsides for both sides. The established presence Seibu Prince has in Asian markets and the strong brand Ace Hotel has in cities all over the world, might make them potential growth vehicles, they added. The sale would potentially give Ace Hotel the opportunity to grow its presence in Asia and to take advantage of Seibu Prince’s experience in hotel management.
The deal might bring renewed investment in Ace Hotel’s existing properties, allowing the brand to bounce back from its recent hits. With support from Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide, Ace Hotel might become a king again on the boutique hotel turf.
Chris Penn Comes Back to Ace Hotel
Ace Hotel also had a new CEO in early 2024, Chris Penn, so there was some management change taking place. In 2013, Penn had assisted in the launch of Ace Hotel’s London outpost, contributing to building the brand’s image. He left the company in 2016 and has moved on to own some of his own ventures including Performance Hotels and Birch Hotels.
Penn’s comeback at Ace Hotel represents a renewed effort to bring the brand back to life. In a statement, he said he believed in the brand’s continued relevance, calling it one hotel brand that still, through independence, creativity and humanity, remains true to its values. His leadership could prove particularly important in the challenges to come, from the young female trainer idol’s latest jockey to Seibu Prince attempting to acquire the brand.
Looking Forward
Though the deal between Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide and Ace Hotel is not yet set in stone, it could signal a new direction for the brand we thought we knew so well. Whether or not the sale is finalized, should it go through, it would represent a major shake-up in the ownership of Ace Hotel and offer new opportunities for growth and rejuvenation.
The parties involved in the deal — Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide, and Ace Hotel — have not spoken publicly about the negotiations and the future of the deal remains unclear. Then again, if the deal does happen, it may signal an exciting new phase for Ace Hotel with the support of Seibu Prince’s experience on the international hospitality stage.
Hotels & Accommodations
Israel Canada Hotels Expands Operations in Greece: A Major Leap in Hospitality and International Growth

Sunday, July 27, 2025
Israel Canada Hotels, a prominent player in the hospitality sector, is taking significant steps to expand its reach both in Israel and internationally. The company is currently engaged in strategic deals worth around NIS 200 million, aimed at strengthening its position as a leading hotel operator. With a focus on key markets such as Israel, Greece, and Cyprus, Israel Canada Hotels is expanding its portfolio of properties to meet the growing demand for diverse, high-quality accommodations. This move comes at a pivotal time as the tourism sector recovers from the challenges posed by the global pandemic, and Israel Canada Hotels seeks to cement its status as a leading hotel brand in the region.
Israel Canada Hotels’ Growing Domestic Presence
In Israel, Israel Canada Hotels is actively enhancing its presence with strategic acquisitions and investments. The company recently signed a memorandum of understanding to acquire a 50% ownership stake in two significant properties: the Galilion tourism complex and the Kfar Giladi Hotel. Located in the northern region of Israel, these two properties represent a major leap forward in the company’s expansion strategy.
The Galilion complex, situated in the beautiful Hula Valley, is a popular destination that boasts 120 guest rooms and suites, making it an ideal getaway for couples and families. The complex includes a spa center, swimming pool, restaurant, wine bar, and conference facilities. The Kfar Giladi Hotel, located in Kibbutz Kfar Giladi at the foot of the Naftali Mountains in the Upper Galilee, spans over 30 acres of well-maintained grounds, providing a serene environment for relaxation and leisure. These acquisitions, valued at approximately NIS 140 million, will be managed by Israel Canada Hotels, ensuring the company continues to provide exceptional service while benefiting from ongoing management fees.
Expansion in Tiberias: A New Lease Opportunity
In addition to its acquisitions, Israel Canada Hotels is in advanced negotiations to lease a 307-room hotel in Tiberias for a 15-year period, with an option to extend the lease for another 10 years. This property, which includes extensive public spaces and great potential for tourism activities, represents an exciting opportunity for the company to broaden its offerings in the region.
Plans for the hotel include a comprehensive renovation, aimed at transforming it into a family-friendly destination. With the growing demand for family-oriented travel experiences, this renovation will position the property as an attractive option for tourists looking for comfort and convenience in Tiberias, a popular location on the Sea of Galilee. The project aligns with Israel Canada Hotels’ broader strategy to expand its footprint in Israel and cater to a wide range of travelers.
Israel Canada Hotels’ Expansion in the South: Eilat and the 42 Degrees Project
Israel Canada Hotels is also making notable strides in the southern part of the country, specifically in the popular tourist destination of Eilat. Through a joint venture with the Karel Group, the company is investing NIS 1.5 million in the 42 Degrees project. This complex consists of nine buildings, public areas, a swimming pool, and a gym, and will be managed under a short-term hotel rental model.
This new investment in Eilat complements the company’s previous leasing agreement for a hotel located adjacent to the apartment complex. Both properties will be managed separately, offering tourists different experiences based on the type of service provided. This diversification ensures that Israel Canada Hotels can cater to various customer preferences, providing everything from family-friendly accommodations to more luxurious offerings in Eilat.
Aggressive International Expansion: Israel Canada Hotels in Greece
On the international front, Israel Canada Hotels is making significant inroads in Greece, a popular European destination that continues to draw millions of tourists each year. The company recently completed the acquisition of a Greek company holding the lease rights to a building on Theatrou Street in Athens, next to its existing Play Theatrou Hotel. This acquisition will allow the company to expand its presence in the vibrant Psiri neighborhood, a popular area for tourists.
The new building is set to undergo renovation and will be converted into a 50-room hotel with a restaurant, doubling the capacity of the Play Theatrou Hotel. With this expansion, the hotel will grow to 110 rooms, making it the largest hotel in the sought-after Psiri neighborhood. This acquisition is part of Israel Canada Hotels’ strategy to capitalize on Greece’s popularity as a global tourist hub and increase its footprint in one of Europe’s most desirable destinations.
In addition to this acquisition, Israel Canada Hotels is negotiating the lease rights to another hotel in a prime area of Greece. The estimated value of this deal is 13 million euros, and it represents another strategic move to strengthen the company’s presence in Greece, a market with significant growth potential. The addition of this hotel will further enhance Israel Canada Hotels’ urban portfolio and allow the company to attract more international visitors.
Strategic Focus on Brand Consolidation
Reuven Alkas, CEO and partner at Israel Canada Hotels, emphasized that these acquisitions and investments are integral to the company’s long-term growth strategy. By strengthening its presence in both domestic and international markets, the company is positioning itself to capture a larger share of the global hospitality market. As the tourism industry rebounds, Israel Canada Hotels aims to consolidate its brand and expand its offerings in key locations both in Israel and abroad.
“We see these deals as an opportunity to expand our footprint in the most sought-after markets, while also maintaining our commitment to quality and exceptional customer service. Our focus on Greece, Israel, and the southern region ensures that we can cater to a diverse range of travelers,” Alkas said.
The Current Hotel Portfolio of Israel Canada Hotels
Currently, Israel Canada Hotels operates 24 hotels in Israel, 11 in Greece, and one in Cyprus, with a total of approximately 3,800 rooms. The company’s diverse portfolio includes properties ranging from luxurious resorts to more budget-friendly options, catering to both leisure and business travelers. The expansion plans in Israel and Greece are expected to significantly boost the company’s portfolio, reinforcing its position as a leading hospitality provider in these regions.
Upon the completion of the new deals, Israel Canada Hotels will not only increase its room capacity but also enhance the variety of vacation experiences it offers, from family-friendly accommodations in Tiberias and Eilat to upscale urban properties in Athens. This growth strategy is designed to meet the increasing demand for high-quality hospitality options in both domestic and international markets.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Israel Canada Hotels
Israel Canada Hotels is making substantial strides in expanding its footprint both in Israel and internationally. Through strategic acquisitions, joint ventures, and investments, the company is positioning itself as a leading player in the hospitality sector. With a strong presence in key tourist destinations like Eilat, Tiberias, and Athens, and a focus on customer service and quality, Israel Canada Hotels is poised for continued success in the growing global tourism market.
As the company strengthens its brand and expands its portfolio, travelers can expect an even more diverse range of accommodation options and experiences, catering to a variety of preferences and budgets. Israel Canada Hotels’ ongoing commitment to excellence ensures that it will remain a key player in the international hospitality industry.
Hotels & Accommodations
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE:WH) Given New $101.00 Price Target at Barclays – MarketBeat
Hotels & Accommodations
Singapore’s capsule hotels go upscale as industry booms – DW – 07/26/2025

In one of the world’s most expensive travel destinations, capsule hotels are emerging as a smart alternative for cost-conscious visitors.
Singapore’s Cube Boutique Capsule Hotels blend affordability with upscale design, offering social spaces and app-based convenience without sacrificing on service.
Originating in Japan, the capsule hotel concept is finding renewed popularity in Singapore, with industry players innovating to stay ahead in a tight labor market and shifting global tourism trends.
As demand rises, the market is poised for growth beyond Southeast Asia — raising questions about how far this compact hospitality model can go.
This video summary was created by AI from the original DW script. It was edited by a journalist before publication.
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