Minor expands to Japan through JV

TOKYO – Minor Hotels’ parent, Bangkok-based Minor International Public Co. Ltd., is partnering with Tokyo Stock Exchange-list Royal Holdings Co., Ltd. (Royal), to develop and operate 21 hotels by 2035 under three Minor brands: Anantara, Avani, and Tivoli.

The partnership, which will focus on key gateway business and leisure destinations, marks Minor Hotels’ entry into Japan’s luxury and lifestyle hotel market.

This partnership forms Royal Minor Hotels Co., Ltd., a 50/50 joint venture between Royal and Minor Hotels. The joint venture will collaborate with leading Japanese real estate developers through a combination of management agreements and lease arrangements. The joint venture is set to be officially established in March 2025.

Minor and Royal have a long-standing partnership with franchise collaboration of the Sizzler restaurant brand in Japan.

Royal currently operates 43 Richmond Hotels nationwide through its subsidiary, RNT HOTELS CO., Ltd.

The new venture will leverage Minor Hotels’ global expertise, while Royal will contribute its operational support and market knowledge. Additionally, GHA DISCOVERY, Minor Hotels' loyalty program, will play a role in driving guest loyalty and attracting new members to the expanding portfolio of hotels in Japan.

“We are thrilled to expand our presence in the vibrant Japanese market, a key growth area for our company” said Dillip Rajakarier, group CEO of Minor International and CEO of Minor Hotels. “Through our partnership with Royal, we aim to deliver unparalleled hospitality experiences that authentically reflect Japan's unique culture while showcasing the global excellence of our renowned brands.”