Wildbeast Migration at Maasai Mara. Photo/Courtesy.
Choice Hotels International has announced entry into the African market, unveiling plans to open three franchised hotels in Kenya by early 2026.
The company’s global expansion ambitions is supported by a newly signed master development agreement that could see at least 15 more properties launched across sub-Saharan and southern Africa by 2030.
The Kenyan portfolio will feature an Ascend Collection boutique property in the Maasai Mara National Reserve and two Nairobi central business district hotels under the Clarion and Quality Inn brands.
The hotels are expected to tap into both business and leisure travel, strengthening Choice Hotels’ presence in one of Africa’s most dynamic hospitality markets.
Announcing the expansion, Choice Hotels president and CEO Pat Pacious said the company’s global operations remain central to its long-term growth strategy.
“Our international business represents the most significant growth opportunity for Choice Hotels, and we’ve built a scalable global platform that will accelerate our gains in the near future,” Pacious said.
“Our fast-growing footprint and performance results prove that Choice Hotels is well-positioned to help franchisees succeed in more destinations than ever before. Entering Africa is an important milestone in that journey and presents a unique opportunity to bring our world-class hospitality to one of the continent’s fastest-growing hospitality markets.” Pacious added.
The Kenya developments will be led by Aniket Shroff, a U.S.-based franchisee with existing Choice Hotels partnerships. Shroff said the decision to expand into Kenya under the Choice banner was straightforward.
“Working with Choice Hotels was an easy decision,Beyond a strong global brand portfolio, the company provides the tools, resources, and guidance that have already helped me grow my business. That level of support gives me confidence these hotels will thrive, and it reflects the kind of franchisee partnership built to succeed in both international and domestic markets.” he noted.
Ricardo Losada Revol, SVP and general manager for International, said the expansion underscores the company’s commitment to supporting franchisees across emerging markets.
“As Choice Hotels grows its presence in new markets, we’re creating more opportunities for our franchisees to thrive,” he said.
“It’s a testament to what sets us apart: We deliver the brands and support systems designed to help our franchisees achieve growth and profitability globally.” he further Noted.
Choice Hotels said the Kenyan additions will be accretive to its Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) portfolio, which is nearing 64,000 rooms an expansion of 7 percent year-over-year as of the third quarter.
The move comes on the heels of significant developments in Europe, including the doubling of its portfolio in France with 50 new Quality Suites hotels.
Globally, the company has also strengthened its footprint in Asia and South America.
Earlier this year, it expanded in China through a master franchise and distribution agreement with SSAW Hotels & Resorts, adding more than 9,500 rooms to the Ascend Collection and committing to growing the Comfort Hotels and Quality brands to 100 properties in the country.
Choice Hotels also entered new markets in Argentina and Suriname with recent additions under the Radisson brands.
