Choice Hotels Ends $7 Billion Takeover Bid for Wyndham

Choice Hotels Ends $7 Billion Takeover Bid for Wyndham

By Author

Published on March 13, 2024

In a significant move within the hotel industry, Choice Hotels International has terminated its nearly year-long attempt to acquire Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, marking the end of a proposed merger valued at approximately $7 billion. The decision came after Choice faced repeated rejections from Wyndham and failed to secure adequate support from its rival's shareholders for its hostile bid. Initially proposed in April last year and made public in October with a cash-and-stock offer of $89 per share, the merger would have positioned the combined entity as a powerhouse in the US budget hotel sector, directly competing against upscale hotel chains that have recently entered the budget market.

Based in Rockville, Maryland, Choice Hotels boasts nearly 7,500 properties in 46 countries, offering a mix of upper-midscale and upscale accommodations through brands like Radisson, Country Inn & Suites, and Cambria Hotels. Wyndham, headquartered in Parsippany, New Jersey, operates about 9,100 hotels across more than 95 countries, with a portfolio of budget brands including Travelodge, Ramada, Days Inn, and Microtel.

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The merger's potential brought to light concerns over antitrust risks and financial stability, with Wyndham highlighting the anticipated combined company's debt load and a slowdown in Choice's business as critical issues. Despite these challenges, Choice's bid did garner some support from Wyndham's shareholders, although less than 20%, insufficient for Choice to see a clear path toward completing the transaction.

With the bid now withdrawn, Choice Hotels has announced it will concentrate on its independent strategy, including an increase in the company's share buyback authorization by five million shares, or approximately $600 million. This move signifies a shift back to growth and development independently of the failed merger attempt.

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In response to Choice's withdrawal, Wyndham expressed confidence in its standalone strategy and growth prospects, underpinned by a management team with a proven track record. Analysts have reacted to the development, with some suggesting that ending the takeover bid could ultimately benefit Choice, allowing the company to focus on its core business and growth opportunities.

As the hotel industry continues to evolve, this aborted takeover bid highlights the complex dynamics at play in mergers and acquisitions, particularly in sectors with significant competition and regulatory scrutiny. Both Choice Hotels and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts now move forward independently, focusing on growth strategies that promise to enhance their positions in the competitive hotel market.


ITC Increases Stake in Oberoi Group and Leela Mumbai Ahead of Hotel Arm Demerger

ITC Increases Stake in Oberoi Group and Leela Mumbai Ahead of Hotel Arm Demerger

By Nishang Narayan

Published on December 20, 2024

In a strategic move ahead of the January 1, 2025, demerger of its hotel business, ITC has increased its stakes in two major players in the Indian hospitality industry. ITC has raised its shareholding in EIH Ltd, the parent company of Oberoi Hotels, to 16.13%, and in HLV Ltd, which owns The Leela Mumbai, to 8.11%.

As of September 2024, ITC held a 13.69% stake in EIH. By acquiring an additional 2.44%, equivalent to 1,52,32,129 equity shares, ITC now commands a 16.13% stake in the company. Similarly, ITC’s stake in HLV Ltd has increased from 7.58% to 8.11%, following the purchase of 34,60,829 equity shares.

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In a regulatory filing, ITC announced, “...the company today has acquired 2.44 percent of the share capital (comprising 1,52,32,129 equity shares of INR 2 each) of EIH Ltd and 0.53 percent of the share capital (comprising 34,60,829 equity shares of INR 2 each) of HLV Ltd, from Russell Credit Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of the company.”

This move is seen as a part of ITC’s preparation for the demerger of its hotel business, ITC Hotels, from its parent group. The demerger, set to take effect from January 1, 2025, is expected to unlock greater value for ITC’s stakeholders and enhance its focus on core operations.

With the increased stakes, ITC is cementing its presence in the premium and luxury hospitality segments, strengthening its relationship with iconic brands like Oberoi Hotels and The Leela Mumbai.


Bangkok’s Funk Meets Bangalore: FunkyTown x Muro Collaboration

Bangkok’s Funk Meets Bangalore: FunkyTown x Muro Collaboration

By Author

Published on November 27, 2024

Mark your calendars for November 29th and 30th, 2024, as FunkyTown, Bangkok’s culinary sensation, teams up with Muro, Bangalore, for two nights of bold, boundary-pushing flavors. Led by the talented team of Pae Ketumarn, Earth Pirwkram, and Theo from FunkyTown and Sarnies Thailand, the event promises an extraordinary menu of innovative small bites and cocktails exploring the depth of Thai cuisine with a unique "funk level" scale, ranging from mild to daringly intense.

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Guests can indulge in creations like Scallop Crudo Tart, Beef Tartare Cone, and Duck & Apple Snail Tsukune, paired with signature drinks such as the Durian Colada, Mango Martini, and the adventurous Green Curry Cocktail. Each dish and drink combines creative flair, sustainability, and locally rooted ingredients to offer a one-of-a-kind sensory experience.

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Whether you prefer subtle tastes or are ready for the ultimate funky adventure, this exclusive collaboration is a must-attend for food and cocktail enthusiasts. Limited seats available—book now for an unforgettable celebration of Thai-inspired innovation and artistry!


Odia Bhoj - Transcend to the Flavors of Odisha in Mumbai with Chef Biswajit Odia Pop-Up at Momo Café, Courtyard by Marriott!

Odia Bhoj - Transcend to the Flavors of Odisha in Mumbai with Chef Biswajit  Odia Pop-Up at Momo Café, Courtyard by Marriott!

By Author

Published on November 25, 2024

What if you could savor the essence of Odisha—its coastal breeze, vibrant spices, and time-honored recipes—right here in Mumbai? Well here's your chance! At Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport's Momo Cafe, Chef Biswajit Moharathi, a MasterChef India Season 7 Top 25 contestant, invites you to embark on an unforgettable gastronomic adventure. This exclusive pop-up, running from 22nd November to 1st December 2024, brings the heart of Odisha's cuisine to the city that never stops craving new culinary experiences.

Chef Biswajit, a Bhubaneswar native and engineer-turned-culinary visionary, known for his ability to elevate Indian cuisine while staying true to its roots, invites you to explore the flavors of his homeland through a thoughtfully curated buffet that promises a symphony of taste, tradition, and innovation. "Odisha's food is about balancing flavours—earthy, tangy, spicy, and sweet. I'm excited to bring this experience to Mumbai, a city that appreciates bold flavors and culinary innovation," shares Chef Biswajit Moharathi

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 Indulge in a symphony of taste, as Chef Biswajit curates a delectable buffet showcasing the best of Odia cuisine. From the fiery spices to the delicate flavors, each dish is a testament to the region's rich culinary heritage. Start with the refreshing Mandia Guda Sherbet, a traditional Odian drink made from jaggery and roasted ragi. Move on to the savoury Dali Bara with Tamarind Dip, a popular Odia snack. For the main course, savour the rich and spicy Kankada Jhola, a crab curry, or the tender Chicken Kassa. Accompaniments such as Badi ChuraAmbula Rai, and the smoky Tomato Poda will make your journey to the eastern even more delightful. And to conclude your meal on a sweet note, indulge in the heavenly Manda Pitha, a steamed rice cake filled with coconut and jaggery or the crispy Malpua, and creamy Rabdi.

 Indulge in a culinary journey that will transport you to the sun-kissed shores of Odisha. Book your table now and experience the magic of Odia cuisine!

Timings - 7pm to 11pm 

Date – 22nd November- 1st December 2024

Address – CTS 215, Andheri - Kurla Rd, opposite Carnival Cinemas, Andheri East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400059

About Marriott International

Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of approximately 9,000 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 141 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®️, its highly awarded travel program.  For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.  In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on X and Instagram.

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