Consolidation and partnerships are, for better or worse, the new game these days. Hotels of all sizes are available for sale at bargain rates, so somebody with deep pockets was bound to see this as a brand new opportunity altogether.
Of course, Sir Richard Branson would be right there at the front of the line. And, as usual, he's looking to fill just the right niche: tech-savvy, young, hip, metropolitan. He knows travel and, better yet, has shown an abiding respect for travelers.
No hotels yet but that's about to change. Virgin Hotels is looking to buy up to $500 Million in properties in the next 3 years.
And they're open to partnership opportunities that could be the saving grace for many struggling midsize urban hotels.
Very, very smart.
