Who owns the Radisson hotels? Answer is – The ownership of Radisson hotels is complex and has changed over time. Currently, the Radisson Hotel Group is predominantly owned by Jin Jiang International Holdings Co., a Chinese state-owned enterprise. Previously, Carlson Companies was a major owner and the brand began as part of that company. In 2022, Choice Hotels International acquired Radisson Hotels Americas, adding a further layer to the ownership structure.

Who owns the Radisson hotels?

Radisson Hotels enjoys a strong reputation within the hospitality industry, offering a variety of accommodations that cater to different traveler preferences. From the upscale Radisson Blu to the vibrant Radisson Red, the brand has solidified its place in the global market.

Radisson Hotels traces its roots back to a single hotel in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Founded in 1909 by Edna Dickerson, the Radisson would go on to become one of the most recognizable hotel brands in the world. Its journey has been marked by expansion, innovation, and shifts in ownership.

With a presence spanning over 95 countries, Radisson Hotels operates under several tiers designed to meet a diverse range of needs and budgets. These include:

• Radisson Individuals: A collection of unique properties with distinct personalities
• Radisson Collection: Premium hotels with exceptional service and design
• Radisson Blu: Upscale hotels focusing on contemporary style
• Radisson: The core Radisson brand, offering comfortable and functional accommodations
• Radisson RED: A playful brand targeted at a younger, trend-conscious demographic
• Park Inn by Radisson: Provides a vibrant and affordable stay
• Country Inn & Suites by Radisson: Offers a home-away-from-home experience

History of Ownership

1. Carlson Companies Origins

Radisson’s history is intrinsically linked to Carlson Companies, a privately held American conglomerate founded by Curt Carlson in 1938.

Carlson’s business ventures began with Gold Bond Stamp Company, a loyalty program with a focus on trading stamps.

The success of this enterprise provided the capital for expansion into a wide array of industries, with hospitality becoming a cornerstone.

In 1962, Carlson acquired the original Radisson Hotel in Minneapolis. This marked a pivotal shift, propelling the company into the realm of hotel ownership and management.

The company’s commitment to the Radisson brand led to significant growth and development over subsequent decades.

2. The Rise of Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group

To facilitate international expansion, Carlson Companies formed a strategic partnership with SAS International Hotels (SIH) in 1994.

SIH, part of the SAS Group (Scandinavian Airlines System), held a strong presence in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

This collaboration led to the rebranding of SIH properties as Radisson SAS Hotels, a move that dramatically increased Radisson’s global footprint.

Carlson’s influence grew further in 2005 when they acquired a 25% stake in Rezidor SAS Hospitality, the company that managed the Radisson SAS brand. Rezidor SAS subsequently changed its name to the Rezidor Hotel Group.

The relationship between Carlson Companies and the Rezidor Hotel Group continued to strengthen. In 2010, the Rezidor Hotel Group officially became a subsidiary of Carlson Companies.

This solidified a global entity that was then known as Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, streamlining operations and branding for Radisson hotels around the world.

Dr. William Davies Expert Opinion

“The partnership between Carlson Companies and the Rezidor Hotel Group was a transformative moment in Radisson’s history. It allowed the brand to leverage Carlson’s strength in North America with Rezidor’s expertise in the EMEA market , creating a truly international hospitality powerhouse.” – Dr. William Davies, Professor of Hospitality Management, Boston University

Jin Jiang International Holdings Co.

1. Who is Jin Jiang International?

Jin Jiang International Holdings Co., Ltd. is a major Chinese state-owned enterprise and one of the largest hotel conglomerates in the world.

Headquartered in Shanghai, the company has a diverse portfolio that includes hotels, transportation, logistics, and tourism services.

Jin Jiang’s involvement in the hospitality sector began in the 1980s and has rapidly expanded to encompass domestic brands and international acquisitions.

2. The Acquisition of Radisson Hotel Group

A watershed moment in Radisson’s ownership trajectory occurred in 2018 when Jin Jiang International became the majority stakeholder in the Radisson Hotel Group.

A multi-stage process began in 2016, with Jin Jiang initially acquiring shares previously held by the HNA Group, another Chinese conglomerate. Further acquisitions in 2018 cemented Jin Jiang’s majority ownership in the company.

This move had profound implications for Radisson Hotel Group. Jin Jiang’s position as a state-owned enterprise in China brings extensive resources, substantial financial backing, and a deep understanding of the lucrative Chinese travel market. These factors position the Radisson Hotel Group for accelerated expansion and influence.

3. Impact on Radisson’s Global Presence

The Jin Jiang acquisition propelled Radisson Hotel Group’s growth trajectory, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.

Jin Jiang’s deep roots within China provide Radisson access to a vast and burgeoning travel market. The synergy between the two companies is driving a surge in hotel development across China, with increasing numbers of properties joining the Radisson family.

Beyond China, the Jin Jiang partnership enhances Radisson’s international presence. By leveraging Jin Jiang’s global network and resources, Radisson is strengthening its position in established markets and making inroads into emerging travel destinations.

This strategic collaboration positions Radisson Hotels to tap into the increasing outbound travel trend from China, providing a welcoming brand for Chinese tourists seeking familiar accommodations abroad.

Jessica Wong Expert Opinion

“Jin Jiang International’s acquisition of the Radisson Hotel Group marks a significant turning point in the global hospitality landscape. The backing of a Chinese state-owned enterprise underscores the importance of the Asia-Pacific market and foreshadows potential shifts in the balance of power among global hotel brands.” –– Jessica Wong, Travel Industry Analyst

Choice Hotels International

Choice Hotels International is a prominent American hospitality company with a diverse portfolio of hotel brands ranging from economy to upscale.

Some of their recognizable brands include Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, Sleep Inn, and Cambria Hotels.

Choice Hotels boasts a significant presence in the North American market and has been steadily expanding its international reach.

1. Focus on Radisson Hotels Americas

In a deal finalized in 2022, Choice Hotels International acquired Radisson Hotels Americas. This transaction encompassed Radisson franchises, intellectual property, and operations throughout the United States, Canada, Latin America, and the Caribbean.

Importantly, this acquisition did not include Radisson hotels located in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, or the Asia-Pacific region. These remain predominantly under the ownership of Jin Jiang International.

The outcome of this acquisition is a split in the global management of Radisson hotels. Choice Hotels International now controls the Radisson brands within the Americas, while Jin Jiang International maintains primary ownership over the rest of the world.

2. Implications for North and South American Travelers

For travelers within the Americas, the Choice Hotels acquisition brings about some potential changes and considerations:

Loyalty Programs: One of the key questions is how Radisson Rewards, the existing loyalty program, will interact with Choice Hotels’ Choice Privileges program. At present, the two programs remain separate, but the potential for future integration exists.

Hotel Portfolio in the Americas: Travelers can expect Choice Hotels to leverage its expertise and resources to enhance and expand the presence of Radisson brands within the Americas. This could mean new hotel openings, renovations, or the rebranding of existing hotels into a Radisson tier.

Potential for Brand Consistency: A concern amongst some travelers is whether this split in ownership will lead to inconsistencies in the Radisson experience between hotels in the Americas and those located in other parts of the world. It’s something Choice Hotels and Jin Jiang International will likely need to address through their management and branding strategies.

Andrew Jordan Expert Opinion

“Choice Hotels’ acquisition of Radisson Hotels Americas is a bold move that signals their intent to become a major player in the North American upscale hotel market. The challenge will be to ensure a seamless guest experience for Radisson loyalists while integrating their distinct brand values into the larger Choice Hotels portfolio.” –– Andrew Jordan, Hotel Management Consultant

What Does This Mean for Radisson Guests?

The multiple ownership changes within Radisson Hotels naturally raise questions about how this will affect those who choose to stay at their properties. Here’s a breakdown of some key considerations:

1. Potential Changes in Brand Experience

One of the main concerns for guests is whether the brand experience they associate with Radisson hotels will change as a result of the new ownership structure. Here are a few areas where potential shifts might occur:

Hotel Standards: Each ownership group, Jin Jiang International for most global hotels and Choice Hotels for the Americas, may have their own expectations and guidelines for hotel operations under the Radisson brand. This could lead to subtle variations in service levels, amenities, or even overall ambiance between Radisson hotels in different regions.

Renovations and Brand Evolution: Choice Hotels might make decisions to upgrade certain Radisson Hotels Americas properties, infusing them with fresh design elements or enhanced facilities. These updates could introduce a slightly different feel compared to those Radisson hotels managed by Jin Jiang International.

Focus on Guest Demographics: Jin Jiang International’s influence may lead to Radisson hotels outside the Americas developing services and experiences specifically tailored to attract Chinese travelers.

2. Variations in Loyalty Programs Depending on Region

For frequent Radisson guests, the loyalty program is a key factor. Here’s what the current situation means for Radisson Rewards members:

Region-Specific Programs: For the time being, it appears that loyalty programs will be somewhat regionalized. Radisson Rewards points earned at Choice Hotels-managed Radisson properties in the Americas are likely to function differently than Radisson Rewards points earned elsewhere in the world.

Potential for Future Integration: Choice Hotels and Jin Jiang International haven’t ruled out the possibility of integrating their respective Radisson-affiliated loyalty programs in the future. This could streamline the experience for travelers who frequent Radisson hotels across different continents.

Benefits May Vary: Until greater clarity emerges on loyalty programs, it’s essential for travelers to investigate the specific perks and benefits associated with Radisson Rewards depending on the region where they plan to stay.

Emily Wilson Expert Opinion

“The evolving ownership structure of Radisson Hotels means that guests need to be a little more proactive in understanding what they can expect at different locations. Checking which company manages the specific Radisson hotel and the rules of their affiliated loyalty program is now a wise extra step in the booking process.” ––– Emily Wilson, Contributing Writer, TravelSavvy Magazine

FAQs

Can I use my Radisson points at Choice Hotels?

Currently, there’s a separation between Radisson Rewards points earned through Radisson Hotels Americas (managed by Choice Hotels) and those accrued at Radisson hotels in the rest of the world. It’s advisable to check the terms of each program carefully. While not possible now, there remains potential for some kind of integration in the future.

Will Radisson hotels change their names?

It’s unlikely that Radisson hotels will undergo large-scale name changes across the board. The Radisson brand names hold strong recognition and equity. However, if Choice Hotels introduces new concepts or branding within their Radisson Hotels Americas portfolio, new names might emerge for those specific properties.

Are all Radisson hotels part of the same ownership group?

No. Radisson Hotels operates under a split ownership model. Jin Jiang International Holdings Co. is the majority owner for most global Radisson hotels, while Choice Hotels International controls Radisson Hotels Americas.

Conclusion

The ownership history of Radisson Hotels reveals a journey of expansion, partnerships, and shifts in management. From its origins within Carlson Companies to the current model where Jin Jiang International and Choice Hotels International play pivotal roles, the brand has navigated a dynamic landscape.

For travelers, this complex ownership means an increased need for awareness when it comes to booking Radisson hotels. Location plays a key role in determining which company manages a specific property and which loyalty program applies.

By taking a proactive approach and researching individual hotels, guests can ensure that they understand the potential benefits, amenities, and rewards programs that apply to their chosen Radisson stay.