Hilton & SLH

How will the Hilton and SLH collaboration reshape luxury travel? Strategic partnerships are increasingly becoming vital in the tourism industry, with industry leaders such as Hilton making significant moves in this direction. 

words by Katerina Fotopoulou | released on February 16th, 2024

Last week, Hilton made headlines with its strategic expansion. In a significant development on February 7, 2024, Hilton and Small Luxury Hotels of the World™ (SLH) revealed an exclusive strategic partnership. This collaboration is set to substantially expand Hilton’s global luxury portfolio by incorporating SLH’s collection of independently minded luxury hotels into the prestigious fold of Hilton’s expanding brands, including Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, and LXR Hotels & Resorts. This partnership marks a pivotal step in redefining luxury travel’s future landscape.

A Gateway to Unique Destinations

The essence of this partnership lies in offering Hilton guests—including the 180 million members of the Hilton Honors program—an enriched tapestry of luxury experiences. Soon, members will have the privilege to dream, book, earn, and redeem points across a selection of participating properties within SLH’s community, which spans 560 luxury boutique hotels across 90 countries, each offering a unique charm and an independent spirit.

Uniting Elegance with Independent Spirit

Chris Silcock, Hilton’s President of Global Brands and Commercial Services, articulates the vision behind this collaboration: “Hilton guests are among the most sophisticated travelers in the world, and we are always looking for amazing new experiences to share with them.” This partnership is expected to open doors to new luxury travel destinations, enriching Hilton’s offerings with SLH’s exceptional boutique hotels.

Mutual Benefits and Beyond

From SLH’s perspective, Chairman Shaun Leleu views this partnership as a “win-win relationship,” promising exciting possibilities for both entities. Hilton’s broad customer base, including its loyal Hilton Honors members, will gain access to SLH’s unrivalled collection of boutique hotels. Concurrently, SLH properties will enjoy enhanced visibility among a discerning and loyal audience, amplifying their reach while maintaining their unique character.

This partnership marks a new chapter in luxury travel, where the allure of independent boutique luxury meets the vast network and loyalty of a global hospitality leader. For travelers seeking the epitome of luxury combined with unique, independently minded experiences, the future looks promising.