Sonesta Extends Master Franchise Agreement With GHL Hoteles Through 2034
Apr 29, 2025 2 mins read
Sonesta Continues Growth in Latin America Across Five Key Markets
Newton, MA (April 29, 2025) – Sonesta International Hotels Corporation (Sonesta) today announced the extension of its long-standing Master Franchise Agreement with GHL Hoteles (GHL) through 2034, reinforcing its commitment to continued growth across Latin America. The renewed agreement covers the development and franchising of most of Sonesta’s brands—from economy to upscale segments—throughout Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Chile and Argentina.
This milestone underscores Sonesta’s momentum in the region and supports its strategy to deepen market penetration through both conversions and new builds. In Lima, the company will soon debut the Sonesta Hotel Miraflores, expected to open summer 2025, further expanding its presence in Peru’s capital city.
“Latin America continues to be a region of significant opportunity for Sonesta,” said Brian Quinn, Sonesta’s Chief Development Officer. “Renewing our Master Franchise Agreement with GHL ensures a strong foundation for future expansion, and we’re excited to bring more of our brands to travelers across these important markets.”
Since entering Latin America in 1998 with the Sonesta Hotel El Olivar in Lima, Sonesta has grown its presence across the region, focusing on both urban and leisure destinations. Through its partnership with GHL—a respected hospitality leader based in Colombia—Sonesta has successfully introduced multiple brands and opened hotels through ground-up developments and strategic conversions. GHL currently has 14 Sonesta hotels open including: Colombia (7), Peru (5), Ecuador (1) and Chile (1).
About GHL Hoteles
GHL Hoteles is a leading Colombian multi-brand hotel management company in Latin America, recognized for delivering exceptional guest experiences and outstanding financial performance. The organization currently manages 63 hotels across nine countries, from Guatemala to Chile, with more than 7,600 rooms. With over 60 years of experience, GHL operates across various hotel segments, including luxury, lifestyle, premium, economy, and leisure, through its own brands, independent properties, and international brands.
The company is backed by Advent International, one of the world’s leading private equity firms, and has received multiple international awards, positioning it as a leading hotel manager in the region and enhancing its credibility and appeal to investors.
ABOUT SONESTA
About Sonesta International Hotels
Sonesta is the 8th largest hotel company in the U.S. according to Smith Travel Research (STR) with approximately 1,100 properties totaling 100,000 guest rooms across 13 brands in eight countries. Sonesta owns, manages and/or franchises under The Royal Sonesta; The James, Classico Collection by Sonesta, Sonesta Hotels, Resorts & Cruises; MOD Collection by Sonesta, Sonesta Select; Sonesta Essential, Sonesta ES Suites, Sonesta Simply Suites, Red Lion Hotels, Inns & Suites by Sonesta; Signature Inn by Sonesta; Americas Best Value Inn by Sonesta and Canadas Best Value Inn by Sonesta. Redefining hospitality through its award-winning Sonesta Travel Pass loyalty program, Sonesta offers guests the opportunity to earn and redeem points for unparalleled value and personalized experiences. Sonesta Travel Pass members receive the best rates, earn immediate points towards free nights, and accelerated status progression based on stays. For more information about Sonesta, visit Sonesta.com to make a reservation or franchise.sonesta.com to explore joining our portfolio.
