Driven by a combination of global organic franchise expansion and the sale of 112 SVC properties encumbered with long-term Sonesta franchise agreements, Sonesta International Hotels achieved a record 26 percent franchise net unit growth in 2025.

Sonesta’s portfolio includes 13 brands spanning the upper-upscale, lifestyle, upscale, midscale, extended-stay and economy segments.

“2025 was a transformative year for Sonesta,” Keith Pierce, Sonesta’s EVP and president of franchise & development, said in a statement. “26 percent net unit growth is a testament to the trust our owners place in the Sonesta brand family. Our focus on being ‘fast, friendly and flexible’ has allowed us to expand at a rapid rate and continue to provide a compelling value proposition with strong underlying commercial engines.”

Sonesta RL Hotels Franchising Inc. launched its franchise platform in late 2021 with four Sonesta-branded hotel concepts in the U.S., reinforced by a package of franchise services, operational infrastructure and owner support. The company introduced four additional brands in 2023, including The James, Sonesta Essential Hotels, and two soft brands—Classico Collection by Sonesta and MOD Collection by Sonesta. In 2024, Sonesta further expanded its brand ecosystem with the introduction of the “by Sonesta” endorser branding across the Red Lion portfolio.

SOURCE: Hotel Management