Hilton partners with YOTEL to expand its global lifestyle portfolio - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Hilton has announced an exclusive agreement with the design-focused hotel brand YOTEL, further expanding its presence in the growing lifestyle hospitality segment. Through the partnership, YOTEL will gain access to Hilton’s global distribution network and the Hilton Honors loyalty program while maintaining its independent brand identity and management.

The agreement is structured as a franchise partnership and positions YOTEL as the first independent brand to join the newly established “Select by Hilton” platform. The concept is designed to connect established hotel brands with Hilton’s global technology, distribution and loyalty ecosystem without altering their individual brand character.

New platform for independent hotel brands

“Select by Hilton” is intended to bring together high-quality independent hotel brands that retain their own identity and operational management while benefiting from Hilton’s global infrastructure. This includes access to Hilton’s distribution channels and the award-winning Hilton Honors loyalty program.

YOTEL currently operates 23 hotels across 10 countries and plans to significantly expand its portfolio in the coming years. The brand is known for its efficient, technology-driven hotels in major urban markets.

Design-driven hotels with smart technology

Founded in London in 2007, YOTEL has expanded into key cities including New York, Tokyo, Amsterdam, Glasgow and Singapore. The brand is recognized for its compact, intelligently designed rooms and technology-focused features. Among its signature innovations is the YOTEL SmartBed™, which transforms from a flatbed into a sofa at the touch of a button. Many properties also feature automated luggage storage systems.

Christian Charnaux, executive vice president and chief development officer at Hilton, said: “The addition of YOTEL to Hilton's network is the latest example of our commitment to capital efficient growth through a relationship that is both complementary to our existing brand portfolio and offers guests thoughtfully designed, sleek new ways to stay with Hilton in key urban locations around the world.”

Access to the Hilton Honors network

Once integrated into Hilton’s system, guests staying at participating YOTEL properties will be able to earn and redeem points through the Hilton Honors loyalty program, which currently counts nearly 250 million members worldwide.

Phil Andreopoulos, chief executive officer of YOTEL, emphasized the strategic benefits of the partnership: “Hilton brings unmatched global distribution and loyalty scale to our brand and business. YOTEL’s relationship with Hilton allows us to expand our reach while staying true to who we are. What changes for YOTEL is access – not identity – in a capital-light, and scalable way.”

The first YOTEL hotels are expected to become bookable through Hilton channels later in 2026.

Image Credit: © Hilton