The resort investment industry has seen tremendous growth in recent years, driven by rising global tourism and discretionary spending. As one of the most lucrative segments in real estate, resort properties offer stable cash flows, value appreciation, and inflation hedges. This article analyzes the best resort investment firms worldwide in 2020 and emerging opportunities.
Marriott leads resort investment with widest global footprint
With over 7,600 resort properties spanning 138 countries, Marriott International tops the resort investment landscape in 2020. Its acquisition of Starwood in 2016 strengthened its lead. Marriott offers unmatched distribution channels, loyal customer base, experienced leadership and mixed-use development expertise – making it the partner of choice.
Blackstone emerges as a powerhouse in resort acquisitions
The alternative investment giant Blackstone has aggressively expanded its resort portfolio, with over $6 billion deployed in lodging acquisitions since early 2020. Its recent purchases include the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas and the Bellagio, with a combined investment of nearly $5.6 billion. Blackstone is capitalizing on pandemic correction prices to build a trophy collection of resorts.
Club Med transitions to resort investment model
The pioneer of the all-inclusive resort concept, Club Med has historically managed its own properties. However, it is increasingly shifting to an asset-light franchise-focused structure. Its partnership with Fosun Tourism deepens access to the Chinese travel market. Meanwhile, its resort development pipeline now exceeds $3 billion spread across Americas, APAC and EMEA regions.
Global players eye Southeast Asia for next resort wave
With mature markets like North America and Europe near saturation, resort developers seeking new frontiers are zeroing in on Southeast Asia – home to some of the world’s most pristine beaches. Thailand’s government plans to make the country a ‘Premium Destination’ through a $700 million infrastructure initiative, with Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia and Philippines following suit.
In 2020 and beyond, leading resort investment powerhouses like Marriott, Blackstone and Club Med are well positioned to capitalize on bullish trends driving the industry. Meanwhile emerging markets in Southeast Asia offer strong tailwinds for the next wave of luxury mixed-use resort development.