U.S.-based hotel operators Hotel Equities and Springboard Hospitality have announced a strategic merger aimed at expanding their reach and enhancing value for hotel owners across branded and independent segments. The deal took effect on May 1.
The newly combined company brings together Hotel Equities’ strengths in branded, select- and full-service properties and Springboard’s expertise in managing independent, lifestyle, and resort hotels. The portfolio will span properties across the United States, Canada, the Caribbean and Latin America, covering urban, resort and outdoor destinations.
“This next chapter for the combined company establishes scale with expanded regional insight and entrepreneurial agility to support owners across every asset class,” says Brad Rahinsky, former president and CEO of Hotel Equities, who has been appointed chairman of the merged company.
Ben Rafter, formerly CEO of Springboard Hospitality, now serves as CEO of the unified firm.
“We start with what both companies do best: revenue generation and technology innovation,” Rafter states in the announcement. “From there our combined expertise allows us to move faster, think more creatively, and deliver long-term value in ways that legacy operators simply can’t.”
As part of the merger, Al Smith, previously Hotel Equities’ president of hotel operations, becomes chief operating officer. Rob Robinson, executive vice president at Springboard Hospitality, will take on the role of president of Springboard Hospitality within the new structure.
The company says it will continue to operate as an owner-focused management platform, offering a full range of services including operations, revenue management, marketing, food and beverage strategy, capital planning and development. Officials noted that additional announcements, including new hires and expanded services, are expected in the coming months.
By combining Hotel Equities’ North American scale and purchasing power with Springboard’s focus on technology and commercial strategy—particularly in West Coast and Hawaii markets—the companies say the merger is designed to meet the needs of owners across asset classes.
Hotel Equities currently manages more than 200 properties, while Springboard oversees 51 hotels and resorts in 14 states.
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