The merger brings together the strengths of the two companies and expands their portfolio to include the United States, Canada the Caribbean and Latin America.
Hotel Equities in Atlanta and Springboard Hospitality in Honolulu declared their strategic merge on May 6, 2020. The combined company, which will offer tailored strategies and be supported by institutional infrastructure and operational expertise, will continue to be an owner-focused firm. The merger brings two complementary companies together, each of which has distinct strengths. Hotel Equities, known for their superior performance with branded, full-service, and select assets, and Springboard Hospitality is known for managing independent, lifestyle, resort, and lifestyle properties.
The newly formed company is responsible for managing a wide range of properties in the United States, Canada and Latin America. Portfolio includes urban, resort and outdoor destinations indicating wide reach within the hospitality industry. Ben Rafter, the former CEO of Springboard Hospitality will take over as CEO, and Brad Rahinsky, the former president of Hotel Equities will become chairman.
Al Smith will now assume the newly-created role of Chief Operating Officer. Al Smith was previously Hotel Equities’ president of Hotel Operations. Rob Robinson, the former executive vice-president of Springboard Hospitality will take over as president of Springboard Hospitality. Hotel Equities’ operational expertise and extensive North American footprint will be combined with Springboard’s deep knowledge of West Coast and Hawaii market and commercial strategy expertise.
The combined entity offers a complete suite of services including operations, revenue-management, marketing, food-and-beverage strategy, capital planning and development. These services are provided by teams of dedicated professionals with extensive experience in both branded and independently owned environments. In the months to come, the company will make more announcements including new hires and expanded service offerings.
